Tools go a long way in enhancing the beauty of art, especially in music. While ideas come from the musician, the right tools bring those ideas to life. This is why musicians and EDM producers are meticulous about their instruments and equipment. The best music production software is an essential tool in any musician’s arsenal, allowing seamless mixing, creation, and editing of tracks.
If you’re a musician, you likely have a setup with a computer, MIDI keyboard, speakers, and microphones. However, the missing piece is often the DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) software. DAW software is crucial for mixing tracks, creating new music, and editing existing works to your taste.
With numerous DAW software options available, it’s vital to choose the best music production software for your needs. Just as you invest in high-quality instruments, investing in the right DAW software is equally important.
To help you make the best choice, we tested and reviewed leading music software solutions from various brands. This guide will help you understand the pros and cons of the best music production software in 2024.
Roundup of the Best Software for Music Production
| Overall Best | Ableton Live |
| Best for Beginners | FL Studio |
| Best for Mac Users | Logic Pro X |
| Best for Professional Studios | Pro Tools |
| Best for MIDI Composition | Cubase |
| Best for Ease of Use | Studio One |
| Best for Creative Workflow | Reason Studios |
| Best for Customization | Reaper |
| Best for Modular Production | Bitwig Studio |
What Is a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)?
A DAW or a Digital Audio Workstation is a digital interface with a combination of software and hardware components to record and edit audio files. It is the second-most important music production equipment.
The hardware consists of computers, laptops (or Mac), MIDI keyboards, speakers, microphones, filters, etc. The software components include music production software, virtual mixers, audio/ media editing apps, file management tools, etc.
Traditional DAWs mainly relied on hardware. The computers weren’t advanced enough to handle complex technology. But now, digital audio workstations are usually software-based. A majority of the work happens using the software. And if the software you chose doesn’t have a feature, you simply use a plug-in or integrate a third-party application to the software and complete the task.
Almost every music producer uses DAW software, be it a beginner or a professional. Some rely exclusively on the software, while others go for hybrid setups. Either way, you cannot separate the DAW software from music and music makers.
Things to Consider Before Choosing Music Software
Choosing the right music production software requires a careful and planned approach. It is as important as following the best tips for music production. Unfortunately, not all software solutions work with every operating system or computer/laptop. If you already own a computer or laptop, you need to choose DAW software compatible with your existing hardware.
Operating System
Are you a Windows person or an Apple fan? The music software you choose should be perfect for the operating system you use. For example, Logic Pro is a natural choice for Macbook Pro. Though many DAW software work with both, they deliver high performance when used with the right OS.
MIDI Support
MIDI is an acronym for Musical Instrument Digital Interface. It allows the devices to connect and control sounds by communicating with each other through MIDI messages. Fortunately, most DAW software allows MIDI support and seamless music mixing during live performances. Live performance requires more connections and interfaces to blend, mix, and play the tracks in real-time.
Expertise Level
Naturally, this is an important factor to consider. As a beginner, you would want a free/ cheap version with a user-friendly interface to help you learn and understand how the features work. Starting with a pro version and extensive features will only overwhelm you. You can invest in better (expensive) software as you practice and improve your skills.
At the same time, you have to plan for the long term. If you intend to dedicate more time to learning music mixing, you will become proficient faster. It doesn’t make sense to keep buying different DAW software frequently, right? You can start with a mid-level model and move on to the advanced level once you feel confident.
So, consider your current expertise level and your future plans before buying the first music production software for your use.
Budget and Usage
Yes! How can we not talk about the budget? Digital audio workstations are an investment. So make sure you know exactly what you want and why. Thankfully, most software solutions come with lifetime support, upgrades, and add-ons so that you can use the same software for years.
In fact, the more you get used to a particular software, the better it gets. Watch tutorial videos, join online communities, and learn more about every software feature. Just make sure not to fix things that don’t need to be. Moreover, it is better to invest in a worthy software than follow the trial and error method by buying multiple ones. Try the free versions if available, but invest in the right one.
Top 9 Software for Music Production
1. Ableton Live
Overall Best Music Production Software
What Impressed Us
- Versatile and suitable for both studio production and live performances.
- Intuitive interface with a unique Session View for non-linear composition.
- Extensive library of instruments, effects, and sounds.
- Strong community support and numerous tutorials available.
- Seamless integration with MIDI controllers.
What Disappointed Us
- eeper learning curve for beginners.
- Expensive compared to other DAWs.
The Ableton Live is chosen as the overall best music production software in 2024 because of its unmatched versatility, powerful features, and popularity among both beginners and professionals. We selected it because it excels in various music production aspects, from electronic music creation to live performances, thanks to its intuitive workflow and vast library of sounds and effects.
Best for overall use, Ableton Live is perfect for producers who want a single DAW that can handle everything from composing and arranging to mixing and live performance. Its Session View is particularly lauded for live performances, allowing seamless looping and improvisation.
Ableton Live supports both wired and wireless MIDI controllers, providing flexibility in your studio setup. It includes advanced features like Max for Live, which allows users to create custom instruments and effects. Ableton Live offers robust performance on both Mac and Windows, with strong support for VSTs and third-party plugins.
In conclusion, Ableton Live is the best all-around DAW for any music producer looking for a versatile and powerful tool that excels in both studio production and live performance.
Check Here: Ableton Live
2. FL Studio
Best for Beginners
What Impressed Us
- User-friendly interface,ideal for beginners.
- Lifetime free updates with any purchase.
- Powerful piano roll for MIDI composition.
- Wide range of built-in plugins and instruments.
- Strong online community with plenty of learning resources.
What Disappointed Us
- Limited audio recording capabilities compared to other DAWs.
- The interface can feel cluttered for advanced users.
The FL Studio is categorized as the best music production software for beginners in 2024 because of its user-friendly interface and ease of learning. We selected this DAW because it offers a straightforward workflow with a drag-and-drop interface that makes it easy for newcomers to start creating music right away.
Best for beginners, FL Studio provides an intuitive step sequencer and piano roll, making it accessible for those with little to no experience in music production. The extensive library of samples and instruments helps users explore and experiment with different sounds.
FL Studio is a wired software, optimized for Windows, but it also works on macOS. It supports a wide range of plugins and VSTs, offering great flexibility as users grow and seek more advanced tools. The software comes with lifetime free updates, ensuring users always have access to the latest features without additional costs.
In conclusion, FL Studio is the ideal choice for beginners who want a powerful yet easy-to-use DAW that can grow with them as they develop their music production skills.
View on Amazon: FL Studio
3. Logic Pro X
Best for Mac Users
What Impressed Us
- Seamless integration with macOS and Apple hardware.
- Extensive library of sounds and plugins included.
- Excellent tools for mixing, mastering, and MIDI composition.
- Advanced features like Smart Tempo and Flex Time.
- One-time purchase with no subscription fees.
What Disappointed Us
- Mac-only, limiting cross-platform use.
- Resource-intensive, requiring a powerful Mac for optimal performance.
The Logic Pro X is selected as the best music production software for Mac users in 2024 due to its seamless integration with macOS and Apple’s ecosystem. We chose this software because it offers a comprehensive suite of tools designed specifically for Mac users, taking full advantage of Apple’s hardware and software optimizations.
Best for Mac users, Logic Pro X is perfect for producers who want a powerful DAW that works flawlessly with their Mac devices. It offers advanced features like Smart Tempo, Drummer, and Alchemy, a powerful synthesizer, making it suitable for both amateur and professional producers.
Logic Pro X is a wired software, designed exclusively for macOS, with support for the latest Apple technologies, including the M1 and M2 chips. It includes an extensive library of sounds, instruments, and effects, as well as strong support for third-party plugins.
In conclusion, Logic Pro X is the best choice for Mac users who need a DAW that leverages the full potential of Apple hardware and offers a wide array of tools for music production.
Check Here: Logic Pro X
4. Pro Tools
Best for Professional Studios
What Impressed Us
- Industry-standard DAW for professional studios.
- Superior audio recording and editing capabilities.
- Powerful mixing and mastering tools.
- Extensive plugin support and high-quality AAX plugins.
- Scalable from small projects to large, multi-track sessions.
What Disappointed Us
- Subscription model can be costly over time.
- Steep learning curve, especially for beginners.
The Pro Tools is chosen as the best music production software for professional studios in 2024 because of its industry-standard status and unparalleled audio editing capabilities. We selected this software because it is widely used in professional recording studios around the world, known for its high-quality sound and robust feature set.
Best for professional studios, Pro Tools is ideal for audio engineers and producers who need a DAW that can handle large projects with numerous tracks and complex editing tasks. It excels in audio recording, mixing, and post-production, making it the go-to choice for professionals.
Pro Tools is a wired software that runs on both Windows and macOS, offering seamless integration with a variety of hardware interfaces. It supports AAX plugins, known for their high-quality processing, and provides powerful tools for precise audio editing and mixing.
In conclusion, Pro Tools is the best DAW for professional studios, offering unmatched audio quality and advanced editing features that meet the demands of top-tier music production environments.
Check Here: Pro Tools
5. Cubase
Best for MIDI Composition
What Impressed Us
- Advanced MIDI editing and composition tools.
- High-quality virtual instruments and effects.
- Strong VST plugin support, including VST3.
- Powerful tools for audio editing and manipulation.
- Comprehensive score editor for notation.
What Disappointed Us
- Interface can be overwhelming for new users.
- Expensive, especially for the Pro version.
The Cubase is selected as the best music production software for MIDI composition in 2024 due to its powerful MIDI capabilities and detailed control over composition elements. We chose this DAW because it offers one of the most comprehensive MIDI editing environments available, making it ideal for composers and arrangers.
Best for MIDI composition, Cubase is perfect for producers who focus on creating intricate arrangements and compositions using MIDI. Its advanced MIDI editor allows for precise control over every note and parameter, making it a favorite among composers.
Cubase is a wired software that runs on both Windows and macOS, supporting VST3 plugins and offering a wide range of virtual instruments and effects. It also includes features like VariAudio for pitch correction and chord tracks for harmonic editing.
In conclusion, Cubase is the best choice for producers who prioritize MIDI composition, offering a powerful set of tools for creating and arranging complex musical pieces with precision.
Check Here: Cubase
6. Studio One
Best for Ease of Use
What Impressed Us
- Intuitive drag-and-drop interface.
- All-in-one DAW with built-in mastering tools.
- Strong integration with PreSonus hardware.
- Powerful arranging tools like the Arranger Track and Scratch Pads.
- Regular updates and improvements.
What Disappointed Us
- Limited third-party plugin support in the Artist version.
- Some advanced features only available in the Professional version.
The Studio One is chosen as the best music production software for ease of use in 2024 because of its intuitive interface and drag-and-drop functionality. We selected this DAW because it streamlines the music production process, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced producers.
Best for ease of use, Studio One is ideal for those who want a DAW that minimizes technical barriers and allows them to focus on creativity. Its drag-and-drop interface simplifies tasks like adding instruments, effects, and arranging tracks.
Studio One is a wired software available on both Windows and macOS, with strong support for VSTs, AU plugins, and a wide range of virtual instruments. It also features advanced tools like the Arranger Track and Scratch Pads, which make experimenting with arrangements easy and non-destructive.
In conclusion, Studio One is the best choice for producers who value an easy-to-use interface that still offers powerful features for professional music production.
View on Amazon: Studio One
7. Reason Studios
Best for Creative Workflow
What Impressed Us
- Unique rack-based interface for modular sound design.
- Extensive collection of virtual instruments and effects.
- Strong support for third-party plugins with VST integration.
- Versatile and creative routing options.
- Excellent for experimentation and sound exploration.
What Disappointed Us
- The interface can be intimidating for beginners.
- High CPU usage with complex racks.
The Reason Studios is selected as the best music production software for creative workflow in 2024 because of its unique rack-based interface that encourages experimentation. We chose this DAW because it offers a different approach to music production, allowing users to visually connect instruments and effects in a modular environment.
Best for creative workflow, Reason Studios is perfect for producers who enjoy experimenting with sounds and setups. Its virtual rack interface mimics real hardware, providing a tactile and intuitive experience for sound design and production.
Reason Studios is a wired software that works on both Windows and macOS, with strong support for VST plugins and Reason’s own Rack Extensions. It includes a vast array of instruments, effects, and utilities that can be connected in limitless ways, fostering creativity.
In conclusion, Reason Studios is the best choice for producers who prioritize a creative workflow, offering a unique and inspiring environment for music production and sound design.
Check Here: Reason Studios
8. Reaper
Best for Customization
What Impressed Us
- Highly customizable interface and workflow.
- Affordable with a generous trial period.
- Lightweight and efficient performance.
- Extensive plugin support (VST, AU, JSFX).
- Strong scripting capabilities for advanced users.
What Disappointed Us
- Steeper learning curve for customization.
- Less polished user interface compared to other DAWs.
The Reaper is chosen as the best music production software for customization in 2024 because of its highly customizable interface and workflow. We selected this DAW because it allows users to tailor every aspect of the software to their specific needs, making it a favorite among those who want full control over their production environment.
Best for customization, Reaper is ideal for producers who want to personalize their DAW experience. It allows deep customization of the interface, toolbars, and shortcuts, as well as extensive scripting capabilities for advanced users.
Reaper is a wired software that runs on both Windows and macOS, known for its efficient performance and low system requirements. It supports a wide range of plugins, including VST, AU, and JSFX, and is compatible with most hardware interfaces.
In conclusion, Reaper is the best choice for producers who need a customizable DAW that can adapt to any workflow, offering flexibility and efficiency in music production.
Check Here: Reaper
9. Best for Modular Production
Bitwig Studio
What Impressed Us
- Innovative modular environment with The Grid.
- Strong support for clip launching and live performance.
- Seamless hardware integration.
- Advanced modulation and automation features.
- Cross-platform support (Windows, macOS, Linux).
What Disappointed Us
- High learning curve for mastering modular production.
- Relatively expensive compared to other DAWs.
The Bitwig Studio is selected as the best music production software for modular production in 2024 because of its innovative modular environment that allows for dynamic sound design. We chose this DAW because it offers a unique modular workflow, perfect for producers who want to create complex and evolving soundscapes.
Best for modular production, Bitwig Studio is ideal for sound designers and electronic music producers who want to experiment with modulation and routing. Its modular environment, The Grid, allows users to build custom instruments and effects from scratch.
Bitwig Studio is a wired software available on Windows, macOS, and Linux, offering strong support for VST plugins and seamless integration with hardware controllers. It also includes features like advanced automation, clip launching, and a comprehensive set of virtual instruments.
In conclusion, Bitwig Studio is the best choice for producers who focus on modular production, offering a flexible and innovative environment for creating complex, evolving music.
Check Here: Bitwig Studio
Frequently Asked Questions About Music Production Software
You can make music by learning more to create a tune and use the DAW software. Write the lyrics, record the song through the software or write it directly within the software. Edit the audio files, and use the tracks from the sound library. Fine-tune the track, play it, and save it.
To make beats for music genres like hip hop, people use Beat Machine. The latest beat machines are hybrid or software-dominant and use digital sequencing to produce beats. People use sampler keyboards, synthesizers, MIDI controller, and audio interfaces to make and add beats to the soundtrack. More software instruments are added using different plug-ins.
Apart from a computer, you need digital audio workstation software, an audio interface, speakers or headphones, and a microphone if required. Load the DAW software on the computer and learn how to use it. The audio interface handles the input and output aspects of the recording. You need a good pair of speakers to listen to the tracks as you mix and edit them. The mic is necessary to add audio files (vocals) from your side. Save the audio track once you are happy with how it sounds.
Programming is where you create the sounds using musical instruments, synthesizers, samplers, sequencers, etc., in the music coding language. The sounds are produced from scratch using real or virtual musical instruments.
Final Words
We hope you have all the information required to choose the best music creation software for your requirements. In conclusion, Ableton Live is the overall best choice for its versatility, powerful features, and seamless integration for both studio production and live performances. It’s perfect for producers of all levels who want a reliable, all-in-one solution. On the other hand, FL Studio is the best for beginners due to its user-friendly interface and lifetime free updates, making it an excellent starting point for those new to music production. Both DAWs offer exceptional tools that cater to different needs, ensuring a great experience regardless of your skill level.
However, take your time to consider the options and compare the features before making your final decision. Drop a word in the comments about the DAW software you picked.
