15 Best Music Production Software for Audio Professional of 2022
The best music production software is a question many people would like to find an answer to. In today’s world of advanced technology, you may be wrong to think you can only make instrumental beats from an underground recording studio. While sitting in your home, you can create rocking music such as dubstep, wicked rap, etc.
When you have the right music production software like the audio interface equalizer and keywords, you’ll also need software that can help you synchronize and create music everybody loves. The software is also known as the Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) and they help position your ideas into music smoothly.
Music production software has made it so easy that you can make your room a studio and tweak music with a beatmaker and audio mixer. On this note, you need to get the right range of your digital audio workstation. Mastering synthesis and professional sound can then come easily once you’ve got the right DAW for yourself.
There are several digital audio workstations and a new workstation gets launched in the market almost every day. And now, there’s a huge competition between this software as each of the software has a distinctive set of features.
However, you’re not alone on this journey and we’ve compiled the list of music production software that you can make high-quality tracks with on any device. Go through them and pick the most suitable software for you to start your career in music.
What is Meant by a Music Production Software?
Music production software which is also known as a digital audio workstation (DAW) is essentially the glue that sticks all your creative ideas and sounds together. It’s a piece of software that allows users to perform some operations including mixing, mastering, editing, and recording audio files.
Adding effect, additional instruments, vocals, sounds, and flavors to your music can all be done through a DAW, until you have a complete product you are proud of. Most new and home studios focus on a digital setup, meaning digital audio workstations are their major music-making tool.
What to Consider when Choosing a Music Production Software
Keep in mind that there is more than one music production software available on market. So, before choosing any of this software, there are certain things to consider and they include:
- Workflow
Workflow refers to how you use a DAW to create music and it’s very vital when choosing any DAW. To check the workflow of any software, you must execute certain tasks such as creating software instrument tracks, recording audio, editing MIDI note data, and mixing.
How you accomplish these tasks in a specific music production program shows the workflow of such software.
- Costs
Cost is another vital factor to consider before choosing your digital audio workstation. I’m sure you wouldn’t want software that’s way bigger than your budget. As you may know, most of the DAWs have tiered/premium versions, where a cheaper, but feature-limited, version is available.
However, it’s ideal to strike a balance between the features and prices of the software and your needs and/or budget. You can try the free trials of the paid software but you should only go-ahead to purchase the software if it is worth the money.
- Learnability
Learnability is also important before purchasing any of the music production software. DAWs are complicated pieces of software and every digital audio workstation requires spending some time learning the workflow and interface.
While some DAWs can be more intuitive depending on your experience, others have excellent resources for learning with both guides and video tutorials. So, you should consider choosing uncomplicated software. You should choose the software you’d understand its interface easily after going through the guides prepared for it.
What is the Best Music Production Software?
When it comes to digital audio workstations, there are several options to pick from. Every software has different features, and you may choose the best for yourself depending on your interest. So, if you desire a music production software that can help kickstart your career in music, you can consider and rely on any of the following software:
FL Studio
FL Studio which is formally known as Fruity Loops is one of the best-optimized beat-making software suitable for both novices and professionals. The software is user-friendly and it comes with numerous useful plugins including samplers and synths. The software also allows direct transfer of audio from the synthesizer to your editor.
As you may know, FL Studio has one of the largest user-base and all your concerns will be addressed on some or other forums. Also, one of the exciting features of FL studio is that it’s compatible with all the VST standards for extra plugins. The software also comprises various tools for data editing and makes sequencing extremely easy.
Key Features
- FL studio’s roll piano provides users with additional flavor to their music mix.
- Well-organized user interface that enables smooth navigation and gives you pleasure as a beatmaker.
- FL Studio provides lifetime free updates for being a signature and producer subscriber.
Pricing
FL Studio also has different versions: Free version, Fruity Edition, Studio Producer Edition, Signature Bundle, and All Studio Plugins Edition. The Fruity Edition costs $99, Studio Producer Edition costs $199, Signature Bundle costs $299, All Studio Plugins Edition cost $499.
Logic Pro X
When we’re talking about good software for recording, producing, and editing audio for Mac users, Logic Pro X is an excellent choice. Even though the software might be expensive compared to some of the other music production software, its features are amazing. And the features are similar to some of the other music production software that cost thrice than Logic X pro.
The virtual instrument available for Logix Pro X is one of the best available collections for live performances and studio recording. The software’s virtual drum plug-in is based on an AI algorithm to accustom a virtual drummer that suits your style of music.
Key Features
- Track plug-in that allows users to record a melody that’ll play automatically and adjust with the rhythm to compliment your melody.
- Huge collection of royalty-free loops and several samples for audio and beatmaker mixers.
Pricing
Logic Pro has a free trial that lasts for 90 days. The pricing for other editions is not stated on their website.
MAGIX Music Maker
Although this music production software is only designed for Windows-based users, it’s one of the best music beat-making software. Over the years, MAGIX Music Maker has become famous and an indispensable tool among window-based music-making software. The software comes with amazing features which include noise extortion, volume, bass enhancer, etc.
MAGIX Music Maker is vintage beat-making software, and it’s available in 4 editions where you get access to more loops, instruments, and sounds in levels. Using this software’s free version offers you 425 sounds compare to the Plus edition where you can explore 5,000 sounds.
Key Features
- A vast loop library that gives users access to explore up to 8000 sounds to make high-quality audio.
- A huge online database of tutorials helps users to easily navigate the software in creating high-quality audio effects.
Pricing
MAGIX Music Maker comes with several editions: Free edition (425 sounds), Plus edition (5000 sounds), Live edition (6000 sounds), and Premium edition (8000 sounds). The pricing for each edition is not stated on their website.
Ableton Live
Ableton Live is another exciting music production software you’d want to try. The Ableton family has different editions: the standard edition for beginners and the suite edition for professional music producers.
The standard edition is designed with several features and it’s not just an introductory version. Ableton Live aids in composing, recording, arranging, and mixing music. Ableton Live is the all-time favorite music production software for many DJs.
Another amazing fact of the software is that it automatically beat-match songs which makes it more suitable for live performances.
Key Features
- Loaded with several great stock sounds including drum buss, pedal, echo, etc.
- Future-oriented design with a user-friendly interface for easy navigation and satisfaction of users.
- Shows compatibility with all VST standards for extra plugins.
Pricing
Ableton Live has different editions. Ableton Live offers a 90-day free trial that is 100% risk-free. The price of the edition is not stated on their website.
Muse Score
Muse Score is arguably one of the best and most used beat-making software of 2022. The software comes with numerous magnificent features that attracted millions of users all over the world to try their hands for music-making.
The music production software console of this beatmaker has a great user interface which is very feasible and attractive. Likewise, the software offers a basic beginner featured mode where users can easily start making their beats. Muse Score is compatible with both Windows and Mac platforms.
Users can record, edit music in parts within the recording and then download them in the file formats such as OGG, Wav, etc. depending on your choice.
Key Features
- Compatible with both Mac and Windows which makes it suitable for millions of users.
- Allows transfer to and from other programs via MusicXML, MIDI, and many more.
Pricing
Muse Score is completely free with no limitation or hidden charges.
Apple GarageBand
As its name implies, the software is available for Mac devices. It’s one of the most popular and latest DAWs available on market and is a perfect place to start if you’re a novice or new to the production scene. Apple GarageBand comes with an easy-to-understand interface that makes the software simple to visualize projects.
The plug-in controls of this software can be achieved by “Smart Controls” features which proffer sliders, knobs, buttons, etc. Although it’s a free digital audio workstation, enthusiastic musicians can invest in more effects and plug-ins as they deem fit.
Key Features
- Built-in lesson functions, including mapped-out chords and explanations for learning guitar and piano effortlessly.
- Compatible with iPads, making the device a good option for simple, portable musical mixing and production.
- Supports USB keyboards and its built-in loops contribute to the device’s feasibility.
Pricing
Apple GarageBand is free of cost.
Cockos Reaper
Cockos Reaper is another outstanding software on our list. The software is equipped with lots of effects, high-quality video support, scripting editor tools, etc. Cockos Reaper allows users to download customizable themes for free, and it also has great audio and MIDI routing with multichannel support.
Key Features
- VST and Direct X enable users to explore the full automatic latency compensation.
- Offers input FX for both MIDI and audio inputs, output monitoring FX, tabled docking panels, floating MDI editors, Ripple Editing mode, etc.
- Efficient and fast tools that allow users to manage and produce a good music mix with no stress.
Pricing
Cockos Reaper is also free of cost.
PreSonus Studio One
Recently, the PreSonus Studio One music production software has been gaining massive attention from DJs and music producers to make music. It’s your best choice if you want to enjoy all-new features of music-creating software. PreSonus Studio One represents the best innovative features that upcoming youngsters would love to explore.
The software has a great and productive workflow which makes it more adorable to people looking to create lots of music.
Key Features
- Bundled plug-ins of high quality enable smooth and efficient functioning of the software.
- Inspired by the Control Link MIDI controller feature.
Pricing
The price of PreSonus Studio Software depends on the version. The software has different versions in which the prime version is available to users for free. There is pricing button on their website.
Pro Tools 12
Undoubtedly, Pro Tools is the industry standard for DAWs. It’s evident when you set foot into any professional recording studio and find Pro Tools than any other software. You can make dope music in the comfort of your home.
Also, Pro Tools 12 is an easy choice if you’re looking for all-around production software for sequencing and live instruments.
Key Features
- Large space capacity supporting up to 512 instruments and 1024 MIDI tracks that ensure smooth functioning.
- Offers more than 60 software instruments for amazing flexibility with MIDI tracks.
- Supports over 100 plugins as a bonus for users to enjoy and provides more convenience for the users.
Pricing
It has two versions: Pro Tools starting at $29.99 and Pro Tools Ultimate starting at $79.99
Propellerhead Reason 12
Propellerhead Reason 12 is quite famous in the music industry for its plugins and effects. The software strikes the balance between users looking for electronic production and those looking for live instrument recording. With their latest edition (12), you get Mimic, a fun new sampler for the modern producer and beatmaker.
In addition, the software has a huge sound bank with more than 29,000 device patches, samples, and loops. The software is primarily designed for quick and immediate triggering, chopping, and manipulation.
Key Features
- Offers classic but unique Matrix editor for layering together loops with unlimited software and audio instrument tracks.
- Support VST and has an Ableton Live link in case you want to produce music in Reason but sequence live playback in Ableton.
- An attractive and user-friendly interface that contributes to the overall functioning of the software.
Pricing
It has two pricing options: Direct download at $499.00 and Reason+ which cost $1 for 30 days and then $19.99/month.
iZotope Spire
Another amazing music production software on our list is the iZotope Spire. As you may know, there aren’t that many music production software that can run efficiently on smartphones. Besides, most of this software is light, derivative versions of their desktop counterparts like Garageband for iPhone.
Keep in mind that the software is a hardware-software package – and you can access the Spire software itself for free. But to get access to all its features, you’ll need the Spire hardware in form of a mobile studio that can easily fit into a small backpack.
Key Features
- Has two Phantom-powered mic and TRS inputs that enable users to use the microphone and tracking instruments directly.
- A cool graphical interface that allows users to virtually drag tracks on X/Y access to pan them, and place them higher priority in the mix.
- Offers an impressive iZotope’s award-winning Neutron automated mixing algorithm.
Pricing
It has two pricing options: The element plug-in and the Element Suite. The Element cost $20.22 and the Element Suite cost $40.44.
Acid Music Studio 11
Acid Music Studio has had an interesting history as far as DAWs are concerned. The software was first owned by Sony before it was sold. In 2016, Magix bought the right to produce the Acid and revitalized the brand.
Acid Music is budget-friendly and it’s a great option to provide solid starter features, such as pro-quality, 24-bit, 192 kHz multitrack sound, powered by a 64-bit engine. Also, the software allows users to record unlimited audio tracks, and custom map shortcuts onto your keyboard.
Key Features
- The software allows users to export in mp3, WAV, FLAC files, making the software easier to use.
- Has VST plug-in support that allows users to expand the software’s functionality with several plug-ins with the plug-in of your choice.
- Offers more than 2,500 loops used to produce hip hop, rock, and mouse.
Pricing
Acid Music Studio cost $59.99
Cubase
The software was first released in 1989, and it has been offering a huge choice of sound libraries, with notable score and drum editors ever since. However, Cubase is not on the cheap side but boasts full control room integration.
So, if you’re looking for powerful, top-tier plug-ins, Cubase is one music production software to recommend. Learning the software from the scratch may be difficult, especially for beginners, but once you’ve got yourself loaded, Cubase is extremely impressive and useful.
Key Features
- Offers top-tier plug-ins that ensure efficient music mixing and editing.
- Has an impressive suite of over 90 high-end audio and MIDI VST effect processors.
Pricing
The Cubase has three versions: the Cubase Elements 11 at $121.17, Cubase Artist 11 at $402.32, and Cubase Pro 11 at $705.27.
Bitwig Studio
Bitwig Studio found its way into our list because of its amazing features. The software is best for people looking for a great option to be a creative producer. Bitwig Studio is compatible with both the Windows and Mac OS with a general system requirement. Bitwig studio provides a solution for realizing many musical ideas across the stages of music production.
Key Features
- Offers linear and non-linear workflows for recording, live performance, sound design, and many more.
- Has a complete package with over 90 instruments, effects, and other creative tools.
- Modular structure and flexibility in all aspects of the software make the overall performance of the software amazing.
- Provides over 10GB of world-class sound content from both the Bitwig and selected partners.
Pricing
Bitwig Studio offers two packages: the Bitwig Studio 16-Track package and the Complete Bitwig Studio package at $99 and $399 respectively.
Acoustica Mixcraft
Lastly, on the best music production software of 2022, we have the Acoustica Mixcraft. The software has been around for a couple of years and is quite famous among music producers. The Acoustica Mixcraft is the best choice when looking for a tool like GarageBand for the Windows platform.
The music production software is straightforward and very convenient to use, which contributes to the reason many music producers rely on the services rendered by this software. Acoustica Mixcraft allows users to edit videos along with editing audio.
Key Features
- Offers a decent and updated content library, ensuring the users get to use updated tools in editing their audios and videos.
- Has 45 different modules along with hundreds of presets useful for music producers.
- Provides a grand pianissimo piano as a virtual tool, which gives users more options to create an audio mix.
Pricing
Acoustica Mixcraft also has different versions. The Mixcraft 9 Recording Studio cost $75 and the Mixcraft Pro Studio cost $149.
Wrap Up
In conclusion, music has emerged as one of the professions globally and music lovers are striving to make their footing it. The invention of music production software has helped many music producers and DJs to create wonderful beats and mixes.
However, there are many music production software available on market and it’s important to understand how they work before purchasing them. Also, the feature and prices of music production software vary from software to software.
It’s the music producers’ task to see through in detail in demand of their music production process, and before that, choose the tool that can fulfill their requirements.
To assist you further, we’re recommending five music production software with excellent features and reasonable price:
We hope that the above list of music production software has added to your understanding. And you can start digging the options to find the tool that best suits your career in the music market.
