It comes with all the stock plugins you need to get started, such as a compressor, EQ, Reverb, etc., and it even includes some Amp sims. Of course, it comes down to your own preferences, maybe you like the interface of some other DAW better, but this one offers everything the full version of a paid DAW does, but for free. This would be my top choice for Windows users who are looking for a traditional DAW feel and don’t want to learn how to use Waveform. The big difference between this DAW and many of the other ones on this list is that it offers an unlimited amount of audio, MIDI, Instrument, Loop, and Aux Tracks in every project.īasically, you are getting a premium DAW for absolutely nothing, cool huh? It’s basically a rebranded version of SONAR Platinum with all its professional features included. If it was also available for Mac and Linux I would give it the Nr.1 Spot on this list. I Cakewalk consider to be one of the best free DAWs out there, the one issue is that it’s only for Windows users (Windows 7 or higher and only 64-bit), but you are getting a $600 value DAW for absolutely free. Cakewalk by BandLab (Windows Only) Fully Featured DAW for Windows! Here’s a link to Waveform’s official website.

Different Workflow at first (the mixer is to the left but you can set it up as a regular DAW).Lots of colors (it’s a very visual DAW).Loads of included features, plugins, etc.

Full DAW: No restrictions and fully featured.

Lastly, Waveform allows you to install a Download Manager that you can use to get additional (paid) software, but you can also use it to upgrade to the newer version of Waveform once they come out, etc.

Now, you can upgrade to Waveform Pro and you can even try it for free for 90 days, and what’s interesting about it is that it’s the only DAW that comes with Antares Autotune and Celemony Melodyne already built-in, and right there you’re already saving close to $200 just by purchasing Waveform Pro instead of other DAWs. In addition to this, there are no limitations on using external plugins, which is something that other DAWs don’t allow unless you buy the premium version (I’m looking at you Studio One). Waveform comes with the typical stock plugins included, such as a compressor, EQ, Reverb, Delay, etc., as well as some free instrument VSTs and Amp sims, Loops, and more. However, if you are like me and are used to having the mixer on the bottom of the screen, then all you need to do is click on the little “eye” icon on the top right of the screen, and then on the button that looks like a mixer/faders which will bring up a traditional mixer on the bottom of the screen.

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