Introduction
Whether you’re an amateur musician or a professional audio engineer, having the right audio editing tools can take your mixes to the next level. This guide evaluates the top Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) and specialized plugins based on features, popularity amongst users, reviews and integration with other creative tools. We considered essential features for mixing like channel strips, EQ, compression and effects as well as capabilities for advanced mastering. Workflow customization and third-party plugin support were also important factors in our analysis.
Methods of Evaluation
To rank the top audio editing software, we evaluated each option based on core functionality for audio mixing and mastering. In addition to standard criteria like price, features and reviews, we also factored in metrics like number of monthly website visitors and backlinks, monthly search volume for target keywords, as well as evaluating positive trends over time that indicate growing interest. This holistic approach helps surface the most popular and feature-rich options currently being used by audio professionals.
1. Apple Logic Pro
Apple Logic Pro is a complete digital audio workstation (DAW) developed by Apple for the macOS platform. As one of the most popular professional music production software, Logic Pro allows artists, songwriters, and producers to create, edit, and record music. It comes bundled with a wide range of instruments, effects, and tools to take full advantage of your Mac.
Pros: Some key advantages of Apple Logic Pro include:
– All-in-one DAW for Mac that combines software instruments, virtual studio technology, recording, mixing and editing
– Powerful mixing and editing tools with detailed channel strips and mixer
– Support for a wide range of third-party audio plugins and virtual instruments
– Intuitive interface that is loved by beginners yet capable for professional productions
– Tight integration with other Apple software like MainStage, Final Cut Pro and GarageBand
Cons: One potential disadvantage of Apple Logic Pro is that it is only available for macOS platforms which limits its use for Windows users. A workaround would be to use alternatives on Windows like Pro Tools, Ableton Live, FL Studio, etc.
Pricing: Apple Logic Pro is available at the price of $199.99 on the Mac App Store. This is a one-time purchase that provides lifetime upgrades to major versions of the software.
Some key features and stats of Apple Logic Pro include:
– Completely redesigned interface that is optimized for touch on Mac computers
– Over 2,000 sounds, loops, and samples ready to use
– Support for up to 256 audio tracks and 256 instrument tracks
– Sample-accurate MIDI editing and recording tools
– Flex Time stretching and pitch shifting capabilities
2. Adobe Audition
Adobe Audition is an industry-leading digital audio workstation and multitrack audio editor developed by Adobe Inc. Audition allows users to record, edit, mix and master professional-quality audio for music, podcasts, audio books, films and more.
Pros: Some key advantages of Adobe Audition include:
– It is the industry standard audio editing tool for professionals.
– Powerful noise reduction and audio restoration tools allow cleaning up noisy audio recordings.
– Supports a huge range of audio file formats for flexibility.
– Extensive set of audio effects for precisely editing and mixing sound.
– Smooth and intuitive interface is easy for beginners to use but has advanced tools for professionals.
Cons: One potential disadvantage of Adobe Audition is the upfront cost, as it requires a monthly or annual Creative Cloud subscription. For infrequent or hobbyist users, the ongoing subscription fee may not be worthwhile.
Pricing: Adobe Audition is available through Adobe’s Creative Cloud All Apps plan, which starts at $52.99/month based on an annual commitment. It is also included in several other Adobe CC plans and bundles.
Some key stats about Adobe Audition include:
– Used by audio professionals worldwide in music, radio, podcasting, audio post-production and other industries.
– Over 25 years of development and refinement as a flagship audio editing tool.
– Supports over 200 audio file formats for importing and exporting files.
– Extensive suite of audio restoration and noise reduction tools.
3. Avid Pro Tools
Avid Pro Tools is audio editing software developed by Avid Technology that is used in professional audio recording, mixing and mastering. It has become an industry standard in audio production studios worldwide.
Pros: Key advantages of Avid Pro Tools include:
– Used in professional audio studios worldwide.
– Excellent for mixing and mastering audio productions.
– Support for MIDI and virtual instruments.
– Integrates with Avid video editing tools like Media Composer and Symphony.
– Strong automation capabilities for mixing and post-production audio workflows.
Cons: A potential disadvantage of Avid Pro Tools is the upfront cost as it is geared towards professional audio production. The software and hardware can be expensive for smaller home studios or individuals.
Pricing: Pricing for Avid Pro Tools varies depending on the software package and add-ons needed. Annual subscriptions start at around $25-30/month but typical professional configurations with I/O hardware interfaces can exceed $1000 for a full setup.
Some key stats and facts about Avid Pro Tools include:
– Used in professional audio studios for music, film, television and video game production worldwide.
– Over 25 years as the industry standard digital audio workstation (DAW).
– Integrates with other Avid video editing tools like Media Composer and Symphony.
– Strong automation capabilities for mixing and post-production audio workflows.
4. Steinberg Cubase
Steinberg Cubase is a digital audio workstation (DAW) developed by German company Steinberg for music and audio production. Cubase is available for Windows and macOS and has been ranked as one of the best selling DAWs worldwide for decades. With millions of users, Cubase has become the industry standard for recording, editing, mixing and producing music.
Pros: Some key advantages of Steinberg Cubase:
– Excellent MIDI and virtual instrument support with Steinberg’s plugins
– Beautiful, powerful and flexible audio engine for recording and mixing
– Tight integration with the extensive VST plugin ecosystem
– Smooth and intuitive multitrack audio recording workflow
– Continually developed with new features and updates over many years
Cons: One potential disadvantage is the upfront cost, as Cubase is a paid DAW. While regular updates are included, new major versions often require an upgrade fee. For some users on a tight budget, free and open-source DAWs may be more affordable.
Pricing: Pricing for Cubase varies depending on the version:
– Cubase Elements – Entry level version for $99
– Cubase Artist – Mid-tier version for $199
– Cubase Pro – Full featured version for $399
Educational and crossgrade discounts are also available. Current Cubase owners can upgrade to new major versions for around $99-199 depending on the version.
Some key stats and facts about Steinberg Cubase:
– Used by over 10 million musicians, producers, engineers and artists globally
– Continuously developed since 1989, with the latest version being Cubase 13
– Integrates tightly with Steinberg’s VST instrument and effect plugins
– Supports MIDI, virtual instruments, audio recording and multitrack mixing
– Available as Cubase Pro, Elements and Artist versions
5. Ableton Live
Ableton Live is a digital audio workstation (DAW) and MIDI sequencer software developed by Ableton. It is one of the most popular options for electronic musicians and is commonly used for live performance as well as studio production. The intuitive interface makes it easy for producers to lay down ideas quickly and easily explore sound design.
Pros: Some key advantages of Ableton Live include:
– Great for live performance with its session view
– Excellent tools for sound design with its flexible sampler and instrument racks
– Easy and fast workflow – it’s very simple to lay down ideas quickly
– Supports MIDI controllers and virtual instruments very well out of the box
– Large user community and resources available online
Cons: One potential disadvantage is the relatively high upfront cost compared to free/low-cost alternatives. The standard version costs $99 and suite version is $749.
Pricing: Ableton Live is available in two main editions:
– Standard Edition – $99
– Suite Edition – $749
Both include updates and upgrades for 1 year. After that, renewal plans are available starting from $39/year for Standard and $229/year for Suite.
Some key stats and facts about Ableton Live:
– Over 2 million users worldwide
– Used by top EDM producers like deadmau5, Skrillex, Flume and more
– Supports a wide range of MIDI controllers and virtual instruments
– Live performance mode allows songs to be played like DJ sets
6. Cakewalk by BandLab
Cakewalk by BandLab is a free digital audio workstation (DAW) software for Windows computers. Originally known simply as Cakewalk, the software has been developed and maintained by BandLab since their acquisition in 2018. Cakewalk by BandLab allows users to record, edit, mix and produce audio with an intuitive interface.
Pros: Some of the main advantages of Cakewalk by BandLab include:
– Extremely affordable, even free to use DAW.
– Continuous updates and new features to stay current.
– Well-designed interface and customizable workflow to fit any style.
– Great selection of third party VST plugins for a variety of styles and genres.
– Active online user community for feedback, suggestions and support.
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that as a free and online-focused DAW, the software requires a consistent internet connection for installation, updates and plugin downloads. Offline use is still possible but some features require an online connection.
Pricing: Cakewalk by BandLab is completely free to download and use with no limitations. There are also no subscriptions or ongoing costs required to continue using the software.
Some key stats about Cakewalk by BandLab include:
– Completely free to download and use with no time limits or watermarks.
– Advanced audio editing and recording capabilities previously only found in expensive paid DAWs.
– Actively developed with frequent new releases and feature updates every couple months.
– Robust plugin support with over 4,000 free and paid third party VST plugins supported.
– Large, active online community for collaboration and support on forums.
7. Anthropic PaintShop Pro
PaintShop Pro is a full-featured photo, image and design editing software developed by Corel. In addition to standard photo editing tools, PaintShop Pro also offers integrated audio editing capabilities for touchups and adjustments. Some key features include non-destructive layer-based editing, advanced noise reduction filters and an affordable price point.
Pros: Some key advantages of PaintShop Pro include: – Full-featured set of image and photo editing tools – Integrated audio editing tools like noise reduction filters – Layer-based non-destructive editing workflow – Affordable one-time pricing compared to monthly Creative Cloud plans – Regular free updates and upgrades to the latest version
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that PaintShop Pro may not have as extensive of a set of tools compared to industry leading programs like Photoshop. It is also missing some advanced video editing capabilities.
Pricing: PaintShop Pro offers a one-time perpetual license model. Pricing starts at $79.99 for PaintShop Pro 2023. Educational discounts and bundle deals are also available. A free 30-day trial is available to test out all the features before purchasing.
PaintShop Pro has been a popular image and photo editor for over 25 years. It has over 7 million users worldwide. Some key stats about PaintShop Pro include: – Over 300 editing tools and effects – Support for over 200 file formats – Integrated facial recognition features for easy fixes – Batch processing capabilities for quick edits on multiple files
8. FL Studio
FL Studio is a digital audio workstation (DAW) developed by Image-Line Software. It is one of the most popular music production software available, especially for genres like hip hop and EDM. FL Studio allows users to record, edit, mix and produce music.
Pros: Key advantages of FL Studio include:
– Patterns-based workflow makes it easy for beginners to lay down beats
– Deep playlist and piano roll editors for composing melodies and beats
– Famous for hip hop and EDM production due to features like Fruity Loops
– Large ecosystem of third party plugins from top brands
– Lifetime free updates and support from Image-Line
Cons: The main disadvantage of FL Studio is that it is only available on Windows and Mac platforms. Producers using other operating systems like Linux cannot use FL Studio natively.
Pricing: FL Studio has different pricing tiers available:
– Fruity Edition (Limited functionality): Free
– Producer Edition: $99
– Signature Bundle: $299
– All Plugins Bundle: $699
Both paid versions include lifetime free updates from Image-Line.
Some key stats about FL Studio include:
– Over 4 million copies sold worldwide since 1998
– Available on Windows and Mac platforms
– Integrated sampler, MIDI patterns editor and mix engine
– Extensive library of plugins both free and paid
– Renowned by hip hop artists, EDM producers and YouTube creators
Create Your Best Music | FL STUDIOimage-line.com
9. Waves CLA Plugins
Waves CLA Plugins are channel strip plugins designed by renowned Grammy Award-winning mixing engineer Chris Lord-Alge. The plugins are inspired by the analog mixing console and hardware that Chris uses in his mixes to bring out the best in tracks and deliver that warm, punchy sound musicians and producers love. The CLA series includes plugins like the CLA-2A, CLA-76 and CLA-3A which are emulations of the classic compressor, limiter and EQ hardware Chris relies on.
Pros: Key advantages of Waves CLA Plugins include:
– Iconic analog sound signature that glues mixes together and punches individual tracks
– Warm, musical processing with transparent gain reduction
– Beloved tools from a legendary mixing engineer directly in your DAW
– Great on individual tracks as well as full buss/mix processing
Cons: Potential disadvantages could include:
– Steeper learning curve to master the analog-style processing compared to digital plugins
– More CPU intensive than some stock DAW plugins due to analog modeling
Pricing: Waves offers the CLA Plugins both individually and in plugin collections/bundles. Pricing starts around $59-$129 USD for individual plugins.Subscription plans through Waves Central start at $29.99 USD per month.
Some key stats about Waves CLA Plugins:
– Used by thousands of top producers, engineers and artists worldwide
– Developed by mixing legend Chris Lord-Alge based on his favorite mixing tools
– Highly sought after for their analog-inspired sound and transparent processing
– Beloved plugins include the CLA-2A optical compressor, CLA-76 fateful FET compressor, and CLA-3A parametric EQ
10. UAD Audio Plugins
UAD Audio Plugins is a leading provider of audio plug-ins for digital audio workstations (DAWs). For over 20 years, they have developed Universal Audio’s UAD plug-ins to bring the sound and experience of legendary hardware into the digital world. Their plug-ins deliver the authentic analog sound of vintage recording consoles, compressors, bass amplifiers, reverbs and more through advanced DSP modeling technology.
Pros: The main advantages of UAD Audio Plugins include:
– Accurate emulation of legendary analog hardware like Pultec EQs, Neve preamps, Fairchild compressors etc.
– Wide selection of plug-ins covering all genres and vintage eras
– Extensive presets library from top engineers and producers
– UAD hardware offloads DSP tasks for low CPU usage
Cons: The main disadvantages of UAD Audio Plugins are:
– Requires compatible UAD hardware for DSP acceleration, increasing overall setup costs
– Plugins are not natively supported without UAD hardware
Pricing: UAD Audio Plugins are sold as individual plug-ins or bundle collections. Pricing ranges from $49-$199 per plug-in. Subscription plans start at $19.99/month and provide unlimited access to all plug-ins.
Some key stats about UAD Audio Plugins include:
– Over 150 plug-ins emulating classic analog hardware gear
– Used by top producers, mixers and artists in music, film, TV and games
– Widely supported across all major DAW platforms including Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Ableton Live etc.
– Requires UAD hardware for DSP acceleration to run the plug-ins.
11. Melodyne Editor
Melodyne Editor is an audio editing software developed by Celemony. As the industry standard pitch and time editor, Melodyne allows users to non-destructively edit audio at the microscopic level of single samples. Winning multiple Grammy awards, Melodyne is favored by professionals worldwide for its unmatched accuracy and flexibility in audio editing.
Pros: The main advantages of Melodyne Editor include:
– Industry standard pitch and time editor recognized for its accuracy.
– Non-destructive universal audio editor that works on all file types without converting or destroying audio data.
– Intuitive and customizable graphical interface that makes micro-editing audio effortless.
– Tight integration with popular DAWs through VST/AU/AAX plugin formats.
– Ideal for correcting vocals, fixing instrumental timing issues or unlocking new creative possibilities.
Cons: One potential disadvantage is the learning curve to fully utilize all of Melodyne’s advanced editing capabilities. But its interfaces are designed to be intuitive for beginners while powerful for professionals.
Pricing: Melodyne Editor has different pricing tiers depending on usage and needs. Its Subscription plan starts at $15/month or $165/year. Perpetual licenses range from $449-799 depending on the edition (Studio vs. Assistant). Education and loyalty discounts may also be available.
Some key facts about Melodyne Editor include:
– Used by the top studios and artists around the world to clean up and perfect vocal and instrumental recordings.
– Has been awarded multiple Grammys for its engineering contributions.
– Offers the most precise pitch/time editing capabilities on the market with sub-sample resolution.
– Works as both a standalone application and plugin for major DAWs like Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Cubase and more.
Tomorrow’s audio todayWe make Melodyne – the Grammy-winning audio software.celemony.com
12. Mixcraft
Mixcraft is an audio recording and production software developed by Acoustica. Originally released in 1999, Mixcraft is one of the oldest digital audio workstations still in active development today. With Mixcraft 10 now available, Acoustica continues to refine and enhance their award-winning music production software.
Pros: Some of the key advantages of Mixcraft include:
– All-inclusive DAW at an affordable one-time price compared to monthly subscriptions of other software
– Straightforward and intuitive interface making it great for beginners
– Comes bundled with a massive selection of virtual instruments and effects plugins
– Can record audio and video together in perfect synchronization
Cons: One potential disadvantage is that Mixcraft may not be as fully-featured as higher-priced professional audio workstations like Pro Tools or Logic. It is best suited for hobbyists, independents, and smaller home studios.
Pricing: Mixcraft is available at a one-time purchase price starting from $99.95 for Mixcraft Record to $249.95 for the full-featured Mixcraft Pro Studio version 10 software.
Some key stats about Mixcraft include:
– Used by over 3 million musicians worldwide
– Includes over 1,000 virtual instruments and effects built-in
– Records both audio and video simultaneously in one session
– Lifetime free updates for all versions since Mixcraft 6
13. Antares Auto-Tune
Antares Auto-Tune is an iconic pitch correction and vocal effect processor that has been used in studios and live performances for over 20 years. As the original and most popular vocal tuning technology, Auto-Tune continues to be the industry standard for professional vocal production and performance. It allows singers to subtly or exaggeratedly correct pitch and tune their vocals both in the studio and for live shows.
Pros: Key advantages of Auto-Tune include:
-Iconic sound and easy to use interface
-precise pitch correction for a polished studio sound
-Creative effect capabilities beyond just tuning
-Live performance features for accurate tuning during live shows
-Works on vocals, instruments, and more for flexible application
Cons: The main disadvantage is that overusing the effect can create an unnatural ‘robotic’ tone, though more recent versions provide improved natural sounding modes to mitigate this.
Pricing: Pricing starts at $199 for Auto-Tune Access and goes up to $499 for the professional-grade Auto-Tune Pro plugin.
Some key stats about Auto-Tune include:
– Used on thousands of hit songs across multiple genres
– Popularized as a distinctive vocal effect in late 90s/2000s pop music
– Available as plug-ins for DAW integration or as stand-alone hardware units
– Widely used for both subtle correction and exaggerated vocal effects
14. Plugin Alliance Plugins
Plugin Alliance is known for their wide range of premium audio plugins for mixing, mastering and music production. Their catalog includes plugins emulating rare and expensive analog studio gear from top boutique brands like SSL, Lindell, Brainworx, and more. With an extensive collection of analog emulations and digital effects, Plugin Alliance aims to provide audio engineers and producers easy access to pro-quality tools.
Pros: The main advantages of Plugin Alliance plugins include:
– Vast selection of analog modeling tools covering EQs, compressors, reverbs, tape machines and more
– Highly realistic emulations that sound and behave just like the original hardware
– Subscription plans like MEGA provide great value compared to buying individual plugins
– Brands include industry staples trusted by top studios worldwide
Cons: One potential disadvantage is the upfront investment required, as individual plugins can be expensive to purchase separately. However, the subscription models help address this issue by offering unlimited access for a monthly fee.
Pricing: Plugin Alliance offers plugins both individually and through subscription plans like MEGA. Individual plugins range from $99-499 depending on the brand and tool. MEGA is their flagship subscription providing unlimited use of the entire catalog for $29.99/mo or $349 annually.
Some key facts about Plugin Alliance:
– Over 200 plugins across 20+ boutique brands
– Emulations of gear from esteemed manufacturers like SSL, Manley, Chandler, API and more
– Deep sampling techniques to faithfully replicate original hardware
– Subscription plans provide unlimited access to full catalog for single monthly fee
15. Soundtoys Effect Rack
Soundtoys Effect Rack is a software bundle from Soundtoys that contains over 25 of their renowned audio plugins. Soundtoys is known for creative effects processing tools that bring out of the box sound design and mixing capabilities to digital audio workstations. The Effect Rack bundle collects Soundtoys’ most popular individual plugins into one package for a discounted price.
Pros: Some of the key advantages of the Soundtoys Effect Rack bundle include: having a bundle of renowned creative audio plugins in one package at a discounted price, the wide variety of unique effects that push creative boundaries, pristine analog effect emulations, inspiration for new sounds and mixing possibilities.
Cons: The main disadvantage is that as a bundle, users must purchase all plugins as one collection instead of being able to select individual plugins a la carte.
Pricing: The Soundtoys Effect Rack bundle is regularly priced at $449 but is currently available at an introductory price of $299 through the SaaS Free Trials website.
The Effect Rack bundle includes over 25 individual Soundtoys plugins such as Decapitator, EchoBoy, FilterFreak, PhaseMistress and more. Together these plugins provide an eclectic collection of unique effects to inspire new sounds, enhance mixes and emulate analog gear. Soundtoys plugins are known for their pristine emulations of classic analog effects units and ability to take sounds into uncharted creative territories.
Conclusion
Whether you’re just starting out or working in a professional studio, this guide highlights the top Digital Audio Workstations and plugins that can take your mixes to the next level. DAWs like Pro Tools, Logic Pro and Cubase provide industry-standard tools for advanced users while more beginner-friendly options like FL Studio, Ableton Live and Reaper offer intuitive workflows. Specialized plugins from Waves, UAD, Soundtoys and more deliver coveted effects and hardware emulations to finesse your sound. Be sure to consider your budget and needs before choosing audio editing software to fuel your creativity.