How will Windows 10 for Pro Audio stack up? PCAudioLabs is providing answers.
PCAudiolabs has always been ahead of the curve, and the competition, when it comes to Windows and systems which are compatible with Windows for pro audio. As PCAudioLabs was the first pro audio computer builder to offer Windows 8, we plan to be the first to support Windows 10, as well.
We are thrilled to say that PCAudioLabs/OBEDIA were featured in the Summer NAMM A3E Future of Audio Keynote on Windows 10, presented by Pete Brown of Microsoft.
Watch the video here:
PCAudioLabs has provided deep testing in Windows 10 for Pro Audio, and our findings have shown that Windows 10 is going to be quite beneficial for Pro Audio and Audio Production. As such, we present to you some of our findings.
GOALS
The goal of these tests are to determine if the Windows WDM audio engine has reduced latency in each iteration of Windows when used in a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). The ancillary point of these tests is to test the usability and experience of Windows 10 for pro audio usage, and the OS’s efficiency of processor and RAM operation.
MC 7X SE TEST PRO AUDIO COMPUTER BY PCAUDIOLABS BUILT FOR JUSTIN LASSEN
PCAL was approached by recording Artist and Intel Music professional Justin Lassen to build a custom computer showcasing the Intel 4790k “Devil’s Canyon” processor. The system will specifically feature Windows 10. The MC 7X SE incorporates Intel Water cooling for a stable 4gHz operating build for pro audio production. The system will be used in presentations, and so a windowed custom case was utilized to allow viewers to see the computer components.
The system was configured by PCAL for pro audio production, as per PCAL specifications, which take into account some proprietary tweaks and optimizations for Windows for pro audio production, as well as an exhaustive test process for all hardware, to ensure a smooth user experience.
PRO AUDIO TESTS PERFORMED
The tests performed were utilized using the WDM audio engine in Windows and a PreSonus Audiobox 44VSL, running Cakewalk SONAR Platinum. SONAR was used because it is very friendly to the WDM standard, and is a well-known and very efficient DAW. The latest version of Windows 10 preview was used for test purposes.
Windows 7 vs. Windows 8 vs. Windows 10 was tested. The goal was to discern if Windows 10 outperforms its predecessors.
A 48 track session with individual streaming audio regions was built for the test for playback. All tests were performed at 44.1khz/16bit (CD Quality).
In Windows 7, the lowest latency numbers achieved were at a buffer size of 220 samples for a latency of 5ms.
In Windows 8, the lowest latency numbers achieved were at a buffer size of 179 samples for a latency of 4ms.
In Windows 10, the lowest latency numbers were at a buffer of 132 samples for a latency of 3ms.
We can see that the WDM latency has come down with each iteration of Windows.
PRO AUDIO PASSMARK TESTS AND WINDOWS 10 PRO AUDIO BENCHMARKS
Passmark Performance Test was used to test each Windows iteration, resulting in numbers which showed a boost in performance moving up the Windows tiers, especially on CPU and Memory marks.
CPU SCORES FOR PRO AUDIO WITH WINDOWS 10:
We see a boost going from Windows 7 to 10 in CPU benchmarks.
RAM SCORES AND BENCHMARKS FOR PRO AUDIO WITH WINDOWS 10:
Memory benchmarks between Windows 8/10 are very close to each other, however, Windows 7 has a decided shortfall compared to the two newer OSes.
DISK SCORES AND BENCHMARKS FOR PRO AUDIO WITH WINDOWS 10:
Windows 10 soars in its disk performance, especially being that it has been installed on an SSD.
DAW COMPATIBILITY
We have used many DAWs to test for general usability, and were found to work very well with Windows 10. They are:
- Cakewalk SONAR Platinum
- Avid Pro Tools 12
- PreSonus Studio One 3
- Steinberg Cubase 8
- Ableton Live 9
- Cuckos REAPER
- Acoustica Mixcraft
These DAWs were found to open/work in standard operation without issue on Windows 10. Further testing for stress testing/DAWbench testing will be performed.
AUDIO INTERFACE
The PreSonus Audiobox 44VSL was utilized, using the latest drivers available. The interface worked flawlessly in all cases.
Conclusion
Windows 10 is proving to be a solid contender for the next best OS for digital creativity. With reduced latency on the WDM audio engine, combined with impressive benchmarks and broad compatibility even in technical preview, the OS looks to be one of the best yet. PCAudioLabs plans to support Windows 10 on all our pro audio computer systems.
What is the best music production software (DAW) of 2018?
Every year this question arises much discussion on electronic music forums and social networks. Opinions are divided…some producers even says that this top is pointless anyway because any producer will use the program that already used…or…that did not matter what music software you use, a good producer can make music using any DAW. BUT, you’ll notice the same names year after year in the top positions of the charts on music production websites, forums, blogs, etc.
Somewhere is a grain of truth because the best music software is also the most popular software used and loved by the majority. When you are looking to buy something, always ask yourself what others in your guild use? What is the most popular product? Then depending on your needs and budget, you will choose the product that suits you best.
Let’s get to the main topic…
To find out which is the best DAW we asked the producers. How? We created a poll that was shared on our social networks and sent to our subscribers. More than 10,000 people voted, so here is what we concluded:
1. Ableton Live 10
Undoubtedly Ableton Live 10 is the best DAW of 2019, voted by most readers. Ableton Live 10 is a clip-based sequencer that can be used for both studio-inside music production and live performances. With a better audio warping engine, a great creative workflow, and MIDI editing refinements, Ableton Live 10 DAW offers more flexibility than ever. The advanced automation abilities such as adding curves to automation or duplicate certain automation plus a full range of effects and instruments are ready to turn any idea into reality.
Ableton Live 1 is available priced at EUR 79 (for Live 9 Intro), EUR 349 (for Live 9 Standard) and EUR 599 (for Live 9 Suite).
This translation gives non-Arabic speakers access to one of the seminal works of classical tafsir literature. Although it is among the shortest and simplest of the complete commentaries, it is at the same time both wide-ranging and profound. For half a millennium Tafsir al-Jalalayn has been considered the essential first step in the study of the meanings of the Quran by teachers and students throughout the Islamic world. Tafsir al-Jalalayn, meaning “The Commentary of the Two Jalals”, is named after its two authors: Jalalu’d-Din al-Mahalli (1389-1459), who wrote half of it, and his student, Jalalu’d-Din as-Suyuti (1445-1505), one of the greatest Muslim scholars of all, who completed it after al-Mahalli’s death.
2. Image-Line FL Studio 20
FL Studio 20 was and is one of the best music software, used and appreciated by many electronic music producers across the globe. This year ranks second, and this says a lot.
FL Studio 20 brings some significant developments and innovations such as the new “vectorial” GUI that allow FL Studio 20 to be scaled in real-time and to support high-resolution screens, up to 8K. For those who have made the transition from a previous version, the workflow remains fairly familiar, yet some few changes have been made. Another great feature, beside the vectorial GUI is the implementation of multi-touch support for touchscreen monitors.
Beatmakers such as Lex Luger, Shawty Red, Young Chop, Jahlil Beats , Hit Boy use FL Studio. If you did not know, Jay-Z and Kayne’s “N***** in Paris” was produced with FL Studio.
So, if you are looking for a fun and easy-to-use DAW, with a graphical interface that looks great and that can be customized according to your preferences, then FL Studio 12 is a very good choice.
FL Studio 20 is available (just for Windows) in three versions: Fruity Edition ($99), Producer Edition ($199) and Signature Bundle ($299). Another strength of FL Studio is that once you have purchased a license, you will have updates free updates for! It is the only music software that offers this.
3. Presonus Studio One 4
Studio One 4 developed by PreSonus is a very solid update, bringing some exciting new features such as the Scratch Pads and the Arranger Track, offering more flexibility than ever. Besides all this, Studio One 3 brings some long-awaited virtual instruments add-ons such as Mai Tai, a brand new polyphonic analog modeling synthesizer and the Presence XT sampler, an enhanced version of the previous Presence sampler. Also, there are new effects, such as the newest Rotor audio processor, BitCrusher, and Note FX.
PreSonus listened to its customers and has managed to make from Studio One 4 one of the best music software of this year. Presonus Studio One 3 is available in two versions: Artist for $99.95 and Professional for $399.95.
4. Cockos Reaper 5
Reaper from Cockos is a brilliant piece of music software providing all tools you need to make the best music. Reaper is a multi-track audio and MIDI recording, mixing and mastering, editing and processing digital workstation for both Windows and MAC OS.
Reaper 5 was released this summer and brings many improvements such as FX VST3 support, video support and performance, new GUI layouts, new automation options, extra fancy new theme and much more. This music software is one of the most affordable, for an individual non-commercial license you pay only $ 60. For those who want to test it, can download a 60 days fully-operational demo version of Reaper.
If you thought to change your DAW, Reaper 5 can be a good alternative, with a very active forum and many free tutorials online.
5. Apple Logic Pro X
Apple’s Logic Pro X is an MAC-only music software, very powerful and affordable with strong production capabilities.
After Logic Pro X 10.1, which was a big step forward, bringing many improvements, Logic Pro X 10.2 brings even more upgrades and more obvious is the addition of Alchemy, the next-generation sample manipulation synthesizer with over 3000 presets ready for all types of electronic music. Besides Alchemy synth, there are more features such as the Logic Remote from where you can control your DAW from any corner of your studio using an iPad.
Logic Pro X is available for MAC users priced at $199.99, affordable compared to other recording software from this list.
6. Steinberg Cubase 9
Cubase 9 developed by Steinberg is their latest and greatest version of Cubase music software with many new features and comes in two versions: Artist and Pro. Cubase Pro has all the features of Artist, plus a lot of features such as a Full Scoring Editor, VariAudio for pitch correction, Surround Sound, VCA Faders, Direct Routing, Wave View, significant performance increase and many GUI refinements.
Cubase 9 is available for Windows and MAC OS priced at $699 (PRO) and $399 (Artist).
7. Cakewalk Sonar 2018
Cakewalk Sonar 2018 is one of the more advanced digital audio workstation for Windows (PC) available today. Sonar 2018 comes with a brand-new interface (“Skylight”), mix recall modes, vocal sync, Melodyne integration and some great new useful tools and new effects. Also, SONAR (Platinum, Professional) comes with Addictive Drums 2 (a great drum virtual instrument) included.
You can choose to get SONAR on a monthly or an annual basis. As long as you choose to pay a license, monthly or yearly, you’ll get access to all updates and downloads. Sonar 2018 is available for Windows in three versions as follows: Artist: $99 upfront or $9 monthly, Producer: $199 upfront or $19.99 monthly, Platinum: $499 upfront or $49.99 monthly.
8. Avid Pro Tools 12
AVID Pro Tools is the next generation of the industry-standard music making audio software with artist collaboration support via Avid Cloud Collaboration.
Pro Tools with new updates and improvements for Editing, AudioSuite, Bounce, Audio, and Video Engines, Delay Compensation, I/O Setup, MIDI, and Satellite workflows to further improve stability.
Pro Tools is available for both Mac and Windows-based computers, priced at $599.
9. Bitwig Studio
Bitwig Studio is one of the newest DAW on the market. However, it quickly became one of the most stable and well-featured music software. Bitwig Studio 1.3 is the latest update and was released just a few days ago bringing and improved workflow and the touchscreen technology. Now Bitwig Studio can be used on any touchscreen device that runs on Windows, Linux and a special display profile for Microsoft Surface Pro. It can be said that at first sight Bitwig Studio looks quite well as Ableton Live, as this DAW is a clip-based sequencer.
Bitwig Studio is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux at a price of USD 299.99 / EUR 299.00, quite affordable.
You might also like to check our Bitwig Studio Review.
10. Propellerhead Reason 10
On the tenth position is the Propellerhead Reason 10, a music software with a different approach than many of its competitors and more than 10 years of development behind. Its GUI mimics the design of an actual studio rack, even giving you rear access for cable patching.
The latest version, released this year, Reason 8, introduces several enhancements that make this DAW a more modern one, easier to use and manage. Some buttons and controls were changed, now being much more intuitive, clean and logical to use.
Reason 10 is the latest update, released back in June and brings new sounds and a faster flow plus a massive update to Reason’s classic RV7000 Advanced Reverb.
Reason 10 is available in two versions, the main version priced at €369 with all instruments, effects and all features included and another “Essentials” version priced at just €49, with some limitations.
Let’s not forget the other mentions of our readers who have voted for Renoise, Magix Samplitude Pro, MOTU Digital Performer, Apple GarageBand, Steinberg Nuendo, Acoustica Mixcraft and MuTools MuLab.
We hope this list will help you to choose the best DAW for you, whether you are a beginner or want to switch to another music software. From our experience, all these music programs are good, each can be used to create a great hit and can be used in any professional studio or in personal home-studios. The differences are mostly the price, workflows, tools included and support.
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Cakewalk sonar full version and key is an impressive music management application. It allows you to create your own music from the scratch. Cakewalk sonar license key can edit audio and MIDI tracks simultaneously. This useful application strongly supports DirectX, CFX, and DSP/FX.
Cakewalk sonar crack also support VST effect plug-ins, DXi, and SoundFonts virtual instruments. It is fully loaded with all advanced music creator tools. Cakewalk keygen offers you various opportunities including combine loops, beats, and many more effects.
Cakewalk Sonar Free Download Full Version With Crack
With the help of Cakewalk sonar serial key, you can fully transform your computer into a music studio. It performs various useful jobs for music lovers. Cakewalk sonar free download offers you a well-organized interface which let you easy access to several of its useful features. Cakewalk patch equipped with everything needed for music recording, mixing and mastering. Cakewalk sonar latest version free opens several at the same time.
Cakewalk Sonar Free Download Full Version With Crack
You can easily compose a complete song with creative songwriting tools. It can capture inspired performances and unlimited audio tracks with a natural quality. Fix bugs and manipulate pitch. You can export and publish your songs directly to famous websites like YouTube, SoundCloud, Facebook and much more.
Incredible features of Cakewalk sonar:
- Awesome program for creating your own music.
- Can open several songs at the same time.
- Fully transform your personal computer into a music studio.
- Let you combine loops and beats.
- Add special effects.
- Numerous audio and MIDI tracks.
- Publish your music on YouTube and Facebook.
- Custom touch support.
- Mix with unlimited effects
- Gobbler cloud saving and sharing.
- Play loops in real-time.
- ProChannel Console Emulator
- Get full control of the timing
System requirements for Cakewalk sonar:
- 2.7 GHZ or latter processor.
- 5 GB of free hard disk space required.
- 4 GB of ram required.
- Compatible with windows 10/8/7/Vista/XP
Download link
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Audio recording software is a necessary thing when it comes to the audio recording and related tasks. Whether it is for the basic sound recording needs or the professional audio production, these software will help you in the process. They will not only help you to record audio but will also let you create professional outputs by letting you edit them as per your needs. But as the audio recording is our primary intention, we are now concentrating on the 12 best audio recording software.
12 Best Software to Record Audio
Most of the below-listed items are free recording software so that you don’t have to worry about the money. However, it may include some paid applications as well because the quality of the service is also a factor that we considered during the sorting process. If you are not planning to buy a premium audio recording tool, you may skip the paid tools. Below is the best audio recording software.
1. Audacity
Audacity is a free open source digital audio editor and recording software developed by The Audacity Team. The software was first introduced on May 28, 2000, which makes it 17 years old as of now. Audacity let you record audio from multiple input devices such as an external microphone, a built-in microphone, or even the PC streaming. The high-quality sound clips will be added to the interface allowing you to edit them further. You can control many audio features such as amplification, noise reduction, silence removal, etc.
The software is available for the Windows, OS X, Linux and other operating systems and supports almost all popular audio formats including such as MP3, WAV, FLAC, and OGG. So, if you are searching for the best audio recorder, Audacity is the answer.
2. MixCraft
MixCraft is nothing less than a fast, reliable, and efficient audio recording tool. MixCraft is developed by the Acoustica team well known for their software contributions. Powered by a lightning-fast sound engine, it is a complete audio production suite. Unlike the Audacity, you have to pay few dollars to enjoy the complete benefit of the software. However, a free trial version is provided by the company. Mixcraft is available for all the Windows versions and supports almost of the popular formats.
3. Presonus Studio One Free
Presonus Studio One is a professional audio editing software which also allows recording it. Available for both Windows and Mac versions, this software is a dream of any DAW user. It contains a bunch of professional functions all are helpful for producing high-quality music content. If you are not satisfied with the free features of the Presonus Studio One, you could go for the premium version where tons of new features added.
4. Sonar
Sonar provides the most advanced audio editing environment among the software in this list. It supports some extra audio formats such as WAV, ASF, WMA, and AIFF. It is available for all Windows versions including Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP. Sonar The software consists of numerous functions like mixers and MIDI keyboards which are all helpful to product stunning audio outputs. In addition, the virtual machines like samplers, drum machines, and synthesizers are also there in the software.
5. Reaper
Reaper is a lightweight audio editing application with a simple interface and comparatively professional functions. The clean interface is the most attractive feature of this sound tool. You could control the audio features like stereo, surround sound, as well as the effects like pitch shift, cross-fade, and snap to grid. Reaper is available for both Mac and PC systems and supports audio formats including FLAC, MOV, W64, AIFF in addition to the usual formats.
6. Muse
Muse is an audio sequencer and recorder software dedicated for the Linux OS. If you are a Linux user, you should consider Muse above any of the above applications. You can record from the input sources in both stereo/mono modes. It also supports real-time audio recording. It is a free audio recorder and has no premium versions to upgrade. So, it is very likely for the Linux users.
7. Ocenaudio
Ocenaudio is a good audio editing software with a good number of useful features. Being a fast audio editor, the software performs quite nicely in the recording part as well. The software offers numerous audio effects like 31 band equalizer, flanger, chorus, multiple filters, etc. It is one of the most popular audio editing tool for PC, Linux, Ubuntu, and Mac operating systems. Ocenaudio is completely free to use and supports the formats including MP3, WAV, and AIFF.
8. AudioDope
AudioDope is yet another tool which allows editing music files or other audio files. With minimal features, the software is still helpful for both basic audio editing needs and advanced needs. It contains a full audio waveform analysis to improve the quality of the recorder audio file. It features numerous audio filters and effects like high/low pass filters, normalization, pitch scale, chorus, and reverb. AudioDope is currently available for PC and completely free to use. The software also supports extending the features using the VST plug-ins like compressors and phrases. It is a must try.
9. Wavosaur
Wavosaur is another free audio editor in this list for editing, processing and recording sounds. The best thing that we attracted towards this tool is its small file size. The software is only about 1.5MB in size and allows editing huge audio files. The lightweight interface is a sweetening factor of this tool which never failed to provide extreme performance on the editing and recording process. It has no price and available for all Windows versions.
10. Ardour
Ardour is an open-source DAW available for the Mac and Linux operating systems. It has the most useful multi-track recording feature alongside many other useful functionalities. Some cons of the software includes the lack of built-in effects and filters and unavailability of the Windows version. If you are ready to adjust with these issues, Ardour also is a good software to record audio.
11. NCH Music Recording Software
NCH is a very old program which allows different operations related to recording music, mixing audio, editing music, etc. It is available for both Windows and Mac platforms with professional functions packed inside. If you are not a fan of any of the above-listed programs, the NCH music recorder is a good choice. A free trial version is available in case you want to give it a try before paying some of your hard earned money on it. So, don’t hesitate to try NCH.
12. Rosegarden
Rosegarden is another music editor and recorder software which is specially developed for the Linux users. So if you are a proud Linux OS user, you should try this recording software for Linux. The powerful recording system on this tool is capable of capturing crystal clear sound. After finishing the recording, you will be able to edit the recordings as per your requirements. It is a must try for the Linux users.
Which one is your favorite audio recording software?
Which audio recorder software will you choose for your audio editing needs? Would you go for a free software or a premium one? Let us know your thoughts. Also, don’t forget to recommend any other tools which we missed to include in this top audio recording software list.
Whether it’s creating videos, recording podcasts, digitizing music from musical instruments, or advanced sound production tasks, having a well rounded and robust audio recording/editing application at your disposal is pretty much essential. But there are numerous such sound recording programs out there, ranging from lightweight applications having essential editing functionalities, to professional grade audio production suites. And that kind of makes finding the one that suits your needs best, a bit cumbersome.
However, it doesn’t have to be that way, as that’s the confusion this article is intended to clear, discussing applications that are perfect for both basic and advanced usage scenarios. Stoked? Let’s strap in, as we take a granular look at the 10 best audio recording software.
Advanced Editors & Digital Audio Workstations
1. Audacity
Undoubtedly one of the most popular and well known audio editing software out there, Audacity includes a truckload of impressive features, with robust audio recording functionality being one of them.
Audacity lets you record audio from a multitude of audio input sources, such as external and built-in microphones, and even streaming audio. And that’s just the start. It can be used to convert audio from sources such as tapes and records, to digital recordings in a multitude of formats. Audacity also lets you apply numerous filters and post processing effects (e.g. amplification, noise reduction, silence removal) to the audio files, and supports multi-track mixing with granular audio spectrum analysis. Other features include advanced editing functionality, vocal reduction, and support for numerous Virtual Studio Technology (VST) plug-ins. Audacity supports all popular audio formats, such as MP3, WAV, FLAC, and OGG.
In a nutshell, if you’re looking for the best audio recording and editing program that doesn’t cost a dime, go for Audacity with closed eyes. And the fact that it’s cross-platform and open-source, just makes things better.
Platform Availability: Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP; Mac OS X 10.5 and above; Linux.
Price: Free
2. MixCraft
Looking for a beastly audio recording and production suite, stuffed with every feature you could think of? Take MixCraft for a spin, as it just might be what you need.
Aside from being a professional grade audio recording application, MixCraft is also a powerful digital audio workstation, MIDI sequencer, and then some more. From built-in microphones to external devices like MIDI keyboards, MixCraft can record from a vast array of sources, and even record simultaneously from multiple devices. It includes digital simulations of a bag-load of musical instruments, ranging from classic synthesizers to electric guitars, and comes with huge collection of royalty free loops, sound effects etc. that you can use to create and mix your own music. Other features include Tempo matching (to sync current track’s tempo to that of a pre-recorded audio file), and support for numerous plug-ins and audio effects like distortion and reverb. From MP3 and WAV, to OGG and FLAC, MixCraft supports all audio formats for both input and output.
MixCraft is perfect if you’re a sound engineer/producer looking for something feature-laden for your mixing and production needs. However, it’s only available for the Windows platform, so that’s a bit of a bummer.
Platform Availability: Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Price: Paid versions start from $89.95, 14 day trial available.
3. Sonar
Sonar bills itself as the “most advanced music production environment” available. And given the truckload of features it comes loaded with, it’s hard to argue with that claim.
One of the most powerful Digital Audio Workstation applications out there, Sonar includes just about everything you’d expect from a software of this caliber. You can record audio from numerous sources, and also interface it with a diverse array of external devices such as mixers and MIDI keyboards. And that’s not all. Other features include support for unlimited MIDI and sound tracks, and quick A/B comparison. Then you have a huge collection of special effects (e.g. reverb, delay), and support for virtual instruments such as samplers, drum machines, and synthesizers. Applying and editing effects is as simple as drag-and-drop, and nearly all popular audio formats, such as WAV, ASF, WMA, and AIFF are supported.
All in all, Sonar is an extremely powerful audio mixing and production software, and its 64 bit sound mixing engine ensures maximum performance. So if that’s something you need, go for Sonar without a hitch. However, a downside to using/trying out Sonar is it’s clunky installation method, which requires you to download a “command center” application and then use your free account to install the Sonar version you want to try out.
Platform Availability: Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Price: Paid versions start from $49, 30 day trial available.
4. Reaper
For a lightweight application that’s also (comparatively) easy to use, Reaper sure as heck packs in a lot of punch, and then some more.
Reaper makes recording audio from internal devices or connected external ones like MIDI keyboards a breeze. You can record from multiple devices simultaneously (limited only by hardware), and overdub audio and MIDI. The audio recording config (e.g. stereo, surround sound) can be set-up either in advance, or during post-processing. Most of the editing is a drag and drop affair, and you can apply a ton of effects, such as pitch shift, cross-fade, and snap to grid. Recording and editing can be automated a well, and multiple audio regions can be freely copied and moved for quick comparisons. Reaper includes supports for nearly all VST plug-ins, and there are more that can be created via JavaScript. Support for video decoding is there as well, and a huge variety of formats, ranging from FLAC and MOV, to W64 and AIFF are supported for both input and output. Finally, Reaper’s nested folder structure allows for a much more efficient group audio editing environment.
Want a fast and fully loaded digital audio recording and editing suite that’s super easy to use and offers powerhouse features for a fraction of a price? Reaper is all you need. Then there’s the fact that it’s cross-platform, and has the creator of the legendary Winamp behind it.
Platform Availability: Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP; Mac OS X 10.5 and up; Linux (via Wine).
Price: Paid versions start from $60, 60 day free trial available.
5. Muse
The digital audio recording and production applications discussed so far are no doubt incredibly powerful. However, they are all Windows specific, so if you’re using something like Linux, you’re out of luck.
Not really, as Muse is here to the rescue. A robust and feature heavy MIDI and audio sequencer built specifically for Linux, Muse comes with impressive audio recording and editing capabilities baked in it. It lets you record (and playback) from multiple internal and external audio sources, with both stereo/mono inputs and outputs, and includes real-time recording as well. Other than that, you can directly import/export MIDI files for quick editing using a variety of tools, such as piano roll, drum editor, and score editor. Muse is compatible with standard VST plug-ins (among others), and supports drag and drop arranging of audio tracks and plug-ins in projects. From MP3 and WAV, to WMA and OGG, Muse supports all formats for both audio import and export.
In a nutshell, if you’re looking forward for a free and capable audio recording software, with some very good editing and sequencing functionalities, specifically for Linux, it’s hard to go wrong with Muse.
Platform Availability: Linux.
Price: Free
Basic Audio Recorders And Editors
6. Ocenaudio
Looking for an audio editing application that packs in a healthy number of advanced features, while being amazingly comfortable to use? Do take Ocenaudio for a spin.
Being an exceptionally responsive and fast audio editing and recording software, Ocenaudio works surprisingly well. And its clean interface makes getting started a walk in the park. Whether it’s basic audio recording or a bit more advanced audio analysis, Ocenaudio excels. It features a wide array of effects, including a 31 band equalizer, flanger, chorus, multiple filters, and noise gate, all of which can be applied and previewed in real-time. There’s support for detailed audio spectrum analysis, and you can granularly select multiple portions of audio to preview and apply effects to them. Finally, in addition to its native effects, Ocenaudio fully supports VST based plug-ins, again with real-time previews. It is fully compatible with all major audio formats, such as MP3, WAV, and AIFF.
Whether you need just basic editing features, or advanced audio editing with plug-ins and effects too, Ocenaudio will work just fine. And did I mention it’s cross platform as well?
Platform Availability: Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP; Mac OS X 10.6 and later; Linux.
Price: Free
7. AudioDope
It may not have a whole barrage of powerhouse features, but AudioDope still packs in enough features to hold on its own.
As a feature rich audio recording and editing software, AudioDope works surprisingly well. You can record either from external/internal sources for editing, or load up audio files you already have saved on your computer. AudioDope features full audio waveform analysis, and editing all or some parts of the audio stream is an extremely simple affair. There is a large variety of audio effects available, such as high/low pass filters, pitch scale, normalization, chorus, and reverb. Other than that, advanced sound analysis can be done via tools like noise generator, and frequency analyzer. AudioDope fully supports numerous VST plug-ins, ranging from Compressors to Phasers, which can be downloaded here. AudioDope is compatible with a diverse range of audio formats, including ADPCM, MPC, and WMA.
If you want a lean audio recording and editing application that doesn’t bog down the system, AudioDope is just the thing you need. However, it’s Windows specific only, so that’s something to keep in mind.
Platform Availability: Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Price: Free
8. Wavosaur
Audio Recording Software Windows
Feature laden audio recording and editing software don’t have to be monstrous in sizes, and Wavosaur is the perfect example of that, being unbelievably tiny, at just about 1.5 MB in size.
Yep, you read that right. This ultra lightweight and portable application makes quick work of recording, editing and processing audio tracks and sound loops, both from internal devices as well as external ones like MIDI keyboards. And despite its minimal footprint, Wavosaur supports everything from basic editing and recording functionalities to batch conversion and real-time effect processing. It fully supports VST plug-ins, and its multi document interface makes it easy to work with numerous tracks on one go. You can apply numerous effects like volume normalization, audio inversion, and silence insertion, both during editing and post-processing. Other features include full audio spectrum analysis, and ASIO (audio stream input/output) support. Wavosaur supports all general audio formats, like MP3, WAV, and OGG.
If you’re on the hunt for a robust yet lightweight audio recording software that can also handle a bit of editing, Wavosaur is definitely worth checking out. However, at times it’s unstable when handling specific audio files, so bear that in mind.
Platform Availability: Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Price: Free
9. RecordPad
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We’ve discussed super advanced audio production suites and powerhouse recording applications that are loaded with all sorts of pro features, plug-ins, and whatnot, but there are users out there who just want an efficient way of recording voice (e.g. for audio notes), and don’t care for all that fancy stuff.
If that’s what you’re looking for, RecordPad is going to suit you just fine. A featherweight and utterly simple recording application, RecordPad takes all the hassle out of audio recording, and supports both internal and external input devices. It’s super easy to use, and lets you get started with your recordings in seconds. Simply select the audio input device, and hit the Record button. The recordings can be saved in a variety of popular audio formats, such as MP3, WAV, and AIFF. What’s more, the nifty voice activation feature only triggers the recording when you’re speaking, and you can sort the recordings on the basis of parameters like format, size, and duration. You can also directly send your recordings via email, or upload them to an FTP server. Pretty slick if you ask me!
If all you want is a cross platform audio recording software, with a few extras thrown into the mix, RecordPad is perfect for you.
Platform Availability: Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP; Mac OS X 10.4 and later.
Price: Paid version consts $50, Unregistered software can be used for unspecified number of days.
10. RecordForAll
What makes RecordForAll stick out from the crowd is that it just focuses on doing one thing, and does it exceptionally well. And that’s to help you make better podcasts.
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Having a lean and easy to understand UI, RecordForAll makes recording podcasts a child’s play. From built-in microphones to external mics, it supports a whole range of input devices. You can record your own voice, general music, or just about any other kind of audio. The recordings are immediately loaded up for editing, and the track timeline view makes it super easy to extend, trim, and selectively remove portions of the recording. Other than that, you can overlay the recordings with background music, and even add special effects. Once everything is done, the created podcasts can be published in numerous formats, such as MP3, WAV, and WMA. How cool is that?
If you’re an emerging pod-caster and want a no-frills audio recording application that’s both easy and has a few nice extras, things can’t get any better than RecordFor All.
Platform Availability: Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista, and XP.
Price: Paid versions start from $39.95, 120 days free trial available.
SEE ALSO: 10 Best Audio Editing Software
Ready to record and edit your audio projects better?
Whether your audio recording and editing needs are as basic as simple videos and podcasts, or as big as big musical productions, having an efficient and well rounded audio recorder software is a must. And the above discussed applications are perfect for that. Looking for the best commercial digital audio workstations and mixing suites? Try MixCraft, Reaper, or Sonar. Want something that’s a little toned down but still powerful enough to handle advance editing and recording needs? Audacity and Ocenaudio will serve you fine. And if you need something specific, there’s always RecordForAll and RecordPad. Take them for a spin, and let us know how they work out for you. Know of any other audio recording applications that could’ve made the cut above? Do mention in the comments below.