With the difference in functions, the main difference between programs is the degree of their prevalence among users. The more popular a DAW is, the more reference materials there will be on the web and the larger its community, from which you can easily find answers to any questions that interest you. The popular DAW will allow you to work with a project anywhere in the world – you can go with your music to any studio or send it to a friend via the Internet, without worrying that the project will not open.
The richness of functions and prevalence directly affect the price of the final product – the cost of some programs can go up to several hundred dollars. Nevertheless, the high price does not guarantee ease of use: among the less popular programs there are those that not only cost less, but may also be more convenient to use.
Supported OS: Windows, macOS
Supported plugin formats: VST, AU
Cost: from $ 99
Official website: https://www.ableton.com
The release in 2001 of the first version of Ableton Live was a breakthrough for the music industry. The musicians appreciated the approach to designing the program interface, equally well suited for both sound recording and live performances. In addition to the traditional DAW, users got at their disposal another musical instrument, albeit a software one.
Today Ableton Live is considered the standard in the music industry. Live is the perfect choice for musicians who want to create new loops and samples in a couple of clicks, control all elements of the project and experiment with sound and effects. If you are into electronic music, start with Ableton. Besides being comfortable and flexible, it will make your life easier during live performances.