Three (almost) FREE DAWs to get you making music
Producing your own tracks launches you above the rest of the DJ market, but it can be a daunting process and also an expensive one unless you find some free DAWs to get started.
With so many DAWs on the market it can be overwhelming for new producers getting into the game, who may not yet know exactly what they want. We’re going to break down some options for great (almost) free DAWs to get you started.
Cockos Reaper
What is it:
While technically Reaper is not “free” it offers you a 60-day evaluation period, after which it encourages you to purchase a license via a nag-screen when you start the program up. If you’re using it for commercial use, it’s highly recommended to support the project as you will receive all the latest updates.
Best feature(s):
Reaper is by far the most advanced DAW on this list, I would put it on the same level as some of the expensive high-end DAWs on the market. It offers 64-bit internal audio processing, powerful MIDI and Audio routing capabilities and built-in support for a whole host of MIDI control surfaces. Reaper also offers a wide range of built-in plugins, while supporting third-party VSTs
Not so cool:
Reaper is structured more like a professional DAW, it may have a steep learning curve for guy just getting into production.
Final Thoughts:
Don’t be fooled by Reapers price, it is definitely a professional DAW.
Where to get:
Windows / Mac versions available here.
MuLab
What is it:
MuLab is a DAW by MuTools, the company known for their versatile modular synth plugin, MUX. MuLab can be run in demo mode indefinitely, however there are a few limitations. Although it is still a great platform for learning the basics of synthesis, sound design and digital audio.
Best feature(s):
MuLab offers great audio flexibility through its modular mixer system and comes with a variety of built in plugins – MuDrum, MuSynth and MuSampla. MuLab is a powerful sound design platform for beginners.
Not so cool:
The software limitations are a bit of a let-down.
Final Thoughts:
MuLab is a great place for aspiring sound designers and electronic musicians, particularly wanting to create their own sounds.
Where to get:
Windows / Mac versions available here.
LMMS
What is it:
LMMS is a simple music creation platform, it’s designed to be very easy to use but still offer much of the functionality you would expect from a DAW.
Best feature(s):
LMMS has a very straightforward, user-friendly layout and comes with everything you need to get going. From basic samples to plugins, it’s a fantastic platform to start learning the basics of making electronic music, before diving into a more professional DAW. LMMS is an open source, community-driven project hosted on GitHub, a great place for developers to get involved.
Not so cool:
LMMS is very basic and doesn’t offer much in terms of an upgrade path, so I would say it’s great as your first DAW before moving onto something like Ableton.
Final Thoughts:
LMMS is SUPER simple, has a lot of built-in resources like ready-made sounds – perfect for absolute beginners.
Where to get:
Windows / Mac / Linux versions available here.
Get started today!
For those who have been undecided, hopefully this list of FREE DAWs breaks it down for you. There should be an option to suit your exact needs, now there’s no excuses!
Also check out Kairatune by Futucraft, its a free VST plugin that you can add to any of the above DAWs for more sounds and functionality!
