Music recording software, commonly called a digital audio workstation (DAW), is a computer program for recording, editing, and producing audio. It’s basically a virtual recording studio. It gives you tools and features that streamline the process of creating music.

Here are the primary functions and capabilities of music recording software…

• Audio recording: multi-track recording compatible with an audio interface and MIDI controllers
• Audio editing and mixing: can cut, copy, paste, move items around, and adjust the volume, pan, and effects of individual tracks, letting you balance the mix
• MIDI Sequencing: lets you record and edit MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) data
• Virtual instruments and effects: gives you access to virtual instruments that emulate real-world instruments
• Mastering and export: gives you the tools to master a mixed WAV track and export the final audio file to different audio file formats

When it comes to picking a DAW, you’ll notice you have a ton of options. So I’ve narrowed it down to five of the best options and why they’re good.

Logic Pro is one of the most-used DAWs and you can find it in pretty much any recording studio. Here’s what makes it a good choice:

• All the features you need to record, edit, mix, and master
• A large library of virtual instruments, effects, and royalty-free sounds
• Easy-to-use interface
• Flex Time (change the time of your audio)
• Flex Pitch (pitch correction)
• Smart Controls (change multiple parameters with one knob)
• Smart Tempo (automatically manages the tempo of a project)

Pro Tools is considered the studio standard DAW. It’s in every single professional recording studio. Here’s what makes it a good choice…

• Reliable and the industry standard
• Robust audio editing
• Avid HDX systems (can run intensive plugins without taxing the CPU)
• Collaboration features (multiple users can work on the same project simultaneously)
• Video integration

Reaper (Rapid Environment for Audio Production, Engineering, and Recording) is a DAW that stands out for its efficiency, flexibility, and affordability. It’s my preferred DAW. Here’s why it’s good…

• Affordable
• Easily customizable interface
• Efficient use of computer resources
• Unrestricted trial version
• Helpful and robust community and user forums

Ableton Live has gained popularity in electronic music production and live performance. Here’s what makes it a good DAW…

• Unique, non-linear session view perfect for live performances and electronic music
• Real-time performance (trigger loops, samples, and effects on the fly)
• Clip-based workflow (music is organized into clips)
• Manipulate the tempo and timing without affecting pitch
• Extensive sound library of virtual instruments, samples, and loops
• Create custom devices and instruments using Max for Live

FL Studio is a powerful DAW that many indie artists use. Here’s what makes it a good DAW…

• Intuitive, customizable, and user-friendly interface
• Pattern-based sequencing
• Performance mode makes it ideal for live contexts
• Robust and supportive user community

If your budget is tight, or if you just want to try music production without any pressure, here are some of the best free music recording software programs.

GarageBand is a user-friendly DAW that’s compatible only with Apple devices (but it comes preloaded on Apple computers). It’s basically a simpler version of Logic Pro.

While it may not have the advanced features of professional-grade DAWs, it’s an excellent entry-level and free recording software with a lot of cool features…

• Preloaded on every Apple computer
• User-friendly interface
• Big library of loops, sounds, and virtual instruments
• Smart Instruments designed for users without musical skills
• Built-in music lessons and tutorials

Audacity is as simple as it gets. It’s not ideal for editing or mixing, but it’s very easy to start recording music with it. Here are its standout features…

• Open source (making it free)
• User-friendly interface for recording
• Recording capability with microphones and line inputs in 16-bit, 24-bit, and 32-bit audio formats
• Basic editing tools (mainly EQ, reverb, and noise reduction)

Cakewalk by BandLab is a professional-grade DAW that’s a solid free option. Here’s what makes it appealing…

• 30-day trial version of Melodyne included
• User-friendly interface
• Integrated ProChannel console strip (for high-quality effects like EQ, compression, and tube saturation)

PreSonus Studio One Prime is the free version of PreSonus’s Studio One DAW. Here’s why Prime is still a good free option…

• Unlimited audio and MIDI tracks
• Drag-and-drop workflow
• Advanced audio and MIDI editing (time-stretching, groove extraction, and quantization)
• Presence XT Sample Player (sample player for virtual instruments)
• Virtual scratch pads

Okay, let’s recap all of the best music recording software programs we’ve covered, this time in an easy-to-read table…

It can be hard to pick the “right” DAW. The key is to first figure out what your goals are. Knowing that will inform which DAW you pick. Then once you’ve chosen a DAW, learn it like the back of your hand.

For example, if you want to become a professional producer and/or engineer, you should start with Pro Tools and/or Logic Pro. Most people use one or both of these DAWs, and every professional recording studio will expect you to know them.

Or if you’re an indie musician trying to produce and release your original music, Logic Pro, Reaper, and Ableton Live are good starting points.

Or maybe you’re brand new to recording and you just want to start playing around. You should start with one of the free options, like GarageBand or Studio One Prime.