Which DAW Is The Best? (Surprising Answer from Pro Audio Engineer)

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There are a TON of digital audio workstations available on the market, but which one is best?
In this video clip, taken from my full interview here: • I Interviewed A Pro St...
I discuss with a pro studio owner who started working in recording studios before DAWs even existed, which DAW is the best.
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[@OrpheusAudioAcademy]

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[@sonorous8028]

I've tried almost every DAW - since the early days of Acid Pro. Ended up settling with Studio One. Rock-solid stability, drag-n-drop almost everywhere, easy and fun to use.

[@scottbaxendale323]

I still like acid pro.

[@AlfredoZauberer]

Acid Pro now by Magix! Magix provide „Samplitude“. I use Samplitude for more than a Decade, the output on the Master by Samplitude is a real World and it Sounds totally different from other DAWs ! After installing open a old Project, you will be amazed and astonished what you hear.

[@DJreeik]

What’s the best DAW for 2000s / 90s hip pop like Dre type beats? And what’s the best DAW for 2000s punk / rock instrumentals? Like Linkin park, Avril Lavigne etc.

[@kevinhobbs6064]

@@DJreeikfl

[@PerryCodes]

I wrote my first computer-recorded song use Acid - back in 1998 when it was still Sonic Foundry. It was a great tool! Btw - I've also settled on Studio One. For a long time I was a hardcore Cubase user, but I can't handle what they've done with the UI at this point.

[@PsychedelicGoo]

I abandoned Cubase for Reaper a long time ago. Reaper is not only an excellent DAW, but it also comes with the security that it's not going to cost you an arm and a leg to keep up with the updates.

[@planeguy95]

I've been using Logic for about 15 years - I absolutely love it and it's unlikely I'll ever switch as I know my way around it. However, whenever anyone asks me for their recommendation (especially if they're not an Apple diehard like me) I recommend them Reaper. Amazing DAW and the price is insane

[@Pooter-it4yg]

I've been running REAPER for years, initially as a side option. Now it's all I use and when I collaborate I just send the printed multitracks as stereos to preserve panning.

[@synthoelectro]

After using many DAWs, settling on Ableton live since 2012 and even CoolEdit and Samplitude Producer in early 2000, to me Logic may be my next stop, stuff just feels fresh and helpful for my workflow at least for one album.

[@ernestbuckley8671]

Been using Digital Performer since 2000 for mostly rock band and orchestral stuff, started to use it because collaborators were using it. Like every other DAW, it has its strengths and weaknesses. Many professional composers use it and they`re not posting tons of video content here on YT so DP does not get the respect it deserves. However, with that said, I own and use Live, Logic, Reason, and DP. It all depends on the project and what I`m trying to do. Find the DAW(s) that works best for you and master it. Thats my advice.

[@frankchotai230]

Tried many DAWs, and have worked mostly with Cubase in the past. But went to Studio One and will never go back. Lacks a little in the MIDI editing, but workflow is unbeatable.

[@Ob1021A]

S1 is unsung hero

[@kiillabytez]

What's wrong with the MIDI editing?

[@dennisvanopstal7360]

Workflow is the reason i use FL Studio to this day. I was a tracker, using Fasttracker II and creating and arranging patterns is how i made tracks. FL Studio was the only DAW that i knew of that used patterns. I learned Ableton Live as well and checked out others. But for producing i still go back to FL. Free upgrades are a big plus as well. But its mý preference. I truly do not believe in 2024 there are any soundquality differences in any DAW Vsts perhaps. DAWs not. And it just depends on the individual what they like to work with and feel creative with.

[@tkelong3569]

I use Reaper because of its sensibilities regarding CPU power. I can do 150 tracks easily with high plugin usage on all of them with Reaper. The others fall miserably short. Ableton gives me about 24, Studio One probably another 10 tracks. I record at 96/24 on 2 high end AMD/Win 11 systems synced via RTP-Midi. Studio One has an incredible work flow but I paid for this power and I want every drop I can get. Reaper very intelligently ‘sees’ each thread as a ‘cpu. This allows for much more spread out and clean data disbursal. Also it’s a great DAW with just about limitless possibilities with the genius level Action List.

[@haliaeetus8221]

Good to know.

[@abelanc1090]

huh? Ableton Suite number of tracks is unlmited. Why do you need 150 tracks? I would love to hear that mess. 🤣

[@dannydaniel8975]

​@abelanc1090 I know right. George Massenberg made incredible sounding music with only an 8 track tape machine.

[@siriusfun]

I'm 32bit float at 96k in Cubase Pro on a beastly PC and never have so much as a hiccup regardless of track count. I will say, at 150 tracks, most of that is headed for 'mute' come mix time. ;)

[@DJreeik]

What’s the best DAW for 2000s / 90s hip pop like Dre type beats? And what’s the best DAW for 2000s punk / rock instrumentals? Like Linkin park, Avril Lavigne etc.

[@BirdYoumans]

Cakewalk for me. Been using it almost from the beginning starting as my MIDI editor via smpte and then when the computers got fast enough to make latency negligible I've been using it for midi and audio. Paid for it when it wasn't free but now it's free! Unbelievable program. It just works. Never a problem with plugs at all. But then, I do have a good computer and that helps. 48 channels in and out via lightwire thru Hammerfall interfaces into a Yamaha DM2000 board. A dream set up! But then, I go back to my first studio job in the 60's when we used two 2 track Ampex machines to record with lol! A punch in was taking the best of 3 or 4 takes and splicing them together with a razor blade, splicing block and tape. An overdub was sending your band track from one machine thru the board, adding the vocal or whatever and into the second machine. Glad I lived long enough to get to use what we have now!

[@mrr5835]

I used Cakewalk since HS3. Ive found Ableton (what i use now) is the closest workflow to Cakewalk.

[@YARDMANMX]

It is still the best for midi

[@GearStuffandThings]

Is there a modern version of cakewalk?

[@FranzBass]

@@GearStuffandThings oh btw, the old version is windows only, the new one will be multi-platform

[@mr_invictus]

I rarely hear Digital Performer in some of these "the best" conversations. The gentleman gave a pretty encouraging take on it.

[@morbidmanmusic]

it is and has always been great. It was early in. The MOTU stuff is well integrated. and as a pair, never crashes. Great company.

[@AlanSamuel]

totally agree. DP is one of the first DAWs and also one of the best. Have been using it for more than 25 years and am not ready to give it up. I initially had ProTools but I changed it because at the time, its MIDI integration was almost inexistant. From the very beginning, Digital Performer was superior to ProTools (in my opinion) because it had so many features that ProTools lacked.

[@hackapump]

The point he’s making is absolutely true. It’s all about workflows, how you want to work and what DAW is better at accommodating that workflow. It might take a bit of effort to arrive at a good choice, but it’s so worth it. Myself I was a Cubase Pro user for like 20 years, when I happened upon Studio One. I reluctantly learnt to use it, and now I can’t see myself ever going back. But is S1 a better DAW than Cubase Pro? Not necessarily. For my workflow though, it’s leaps ahead of the competition. The only caveat I might add is ProTools seems to survive mainly on its history as a de facto standard. I don’t see why anyone would choose it in 2023, unless they need to be exchanging projects with other ProTools users with maximum ease.

[@AlanSamuel]

ProTools has been a de facto standard for one reason only: from the very beginning, they came up with a complete system, well integrated, proprietary, that included the audio interface that featured some of the best converters out there. This was the very beginning of the digital audio era. It is the quality of the audio interface that really made the reputation of ProTools, not the software that came with it. The ProTools software was initially very basic and lacked many many features. The one good thing it had was the sample accurate editing. Nowadays, most audio interfaces have great converters and so converters alone do not justify investing so much money in a ProTools system. So we're left with having to choose a DAW for which there are many equal if not superior choices than ProTools out there.

[@michaelteems5813]

Used numerous DAW's but started out on tape, so been at this for a while. Found that Cubase Pro works the best for me and the support mechanisms for Cubase are unparalleled in the business. It has always been rock stable on the PC's and the MIDI functions are the easiest to work with. Very smooth work flow.

[@DJreeik]

What’s the best DAW for 2000s / 90s hip pop like Dre type beats? And what’s the best DAW for 2000s punk / rock instrumentals? Like Linkin park, Avril Lavigne etc.

[@ChrisCadenhead]

started on Nuendo in '00, Reason/Recycle in '02, pro tools, cubase, logic, ableton, and to been on Studio One since version 2 (wasn't amazing then), now Studio One 6 is beast mode finally and Ive never been able to program midi faster and manipulate audio than I have with Studio One. Highly Recommend for anyone living in the piano roll! Happy producing!

[@cesmcmyth]

I am on logic, still not too deep into all its stuff so I can jump to another one before getting a power user, let's say. I am composing on MIDI so your comment is interesting to me. Most film composers are on Cubase and it appeals to me, but Studio One people love it. So is it that "agile" to work on the piano roll better than Cubase? If you know? cheers

[@jennyhong6746]

Is there a big difference from version 3 studio one to 6? I want to be able to use automation, etc.

[@jennyhong6746]

Only asking because I currently have version 3 for free that I never used

[@nobodyspecialmusic]

​@@jennyhong6746you gotta get a newer one. I'm still using 4 and the only thing I'm salty about is that it doesn't have plugin nap lol so I'm ready to upgrade but I'll live til I can. Transform to rendered audio is my best friend

[@revp01]

I use Reaper on MacBook Pro. It’s light on the cpu, not to mention the ability to open multiple project tabs. It is my all-audio workflow workhorse in studio & live performance. Cockos Reaper for the win.

[@haliaeetus8221]

Would you say it's semi quick to get started on? My purposes are recording song+instrument combined with sample sound music, probably without using synth keyboards.

[@revp01]

@@haliaeetus8221 yes. Very easy. When I was on my search years ago coming from Roland XP, EMU MP7, and Akai DPS12, I found that was up & running making songs in reaper faster than in any of the other DAWs. Look up Kenny’s KZbin tutorials if you need help.

[@harrisbeatsfrankou6304]

@@haliaeetus8221 Kenny Goia Reaper Mania. YT You will have basic skills in a week...if you do it.

[@nicholsonjay4724]

@@haliaeetus8221it has a steep learning curve. People brag about its customizing but it’s really overwhelmingly customizable. It’s like looking at the dash board of a 747 for the first time.

[@mitchdematoff9671]

I've owned and used all these DAWs at one time or another. Years ago when I switched from a ( very tricked out ) PC to a custom built Mac operating system, I was hell bent on using Logic as my DAW. I was then introduced to an early version of Studio One. I used it on a TV show I was scoring and since I use a lot of MIDI in my productions , Studio One was smooth and I got the cues done in half the time my previous DAW could do. The newer versions of Studio One has had a few of my friends convert over from Pro Tools and such, to that program The bottom line is this: Learn whatever DAW your using to the max, They can all produce great results....depending on the user.

[@jaymac72]

LOGIC If you are on Mac. Studio one with Reason Rack VST on PC. Ableton for electronic live performance options. FL studio for beats and Hip Hop. Pro Tools for industry standard. Then any of the others you want. Try them all. If you have no cash get Reaper.

[@allstopblue5717]

I really hate the “industry standard” title that Pro Tools has somehow weaseled itself into over the years. I’ve lost many jobs from basic local bands because the first question they email is “do you use pro tools”. Lol It would make zero difference on the project but they will still say no.

[@mrratskins]

I started with Cakewalk and stayed through the end with Sonar. Switched to Cubase and I must say that it is on a completely different plane in terms of quality. The best feature for me is the remote MIDI controller. You can take any controller you happen to have, design a graphic layout with their simple tools, and assign just about any function you want to any knob, button, slider, or pad. I don't know it any other DAWs have that, but I don't think so. If someone else designs one for your controller you can import the script and use it as-is or tweak it. There is a fantastic one for the Arturia Keylab 88 mk2. Just super. I hope Steinberg sticks with this feature.

[@ChrisM541]

Sonar and Cubase were big rivals in the past. Considering Sonar X3 is still around and getting updated by the same programmers and, thanks to Bandlab, is free (for the moment!), what does Cubase offer that's significantly better? Just curious.

[@mrratskins]

@@ChrisM541 The last Sonar I used was Sonar 7 so I'm not up to date with latest features and can't comment intelligently. However, I was a very big fan of Sonar at the time and don't have anything bad to say about them at all. Having said that, I find the MIDI remote controller and general ease of workflow in Cubase are commendable. Their tech support has been pretty good, although I haven't needed to contact them much. I worked through every page of the entire 1,400 page manual. There are a lot of features that are useful but are widely unknown.

[@nateg5586]

​@@ChrisM541 For me the main thing that keeps me with cubase is v simplicity of being able to edit vocals in pitch correct my clients by literally double-clicking the wave form.. So much better than having to use something like melodyne.. Far less steps to get the end result I'm looking for. Along with the multi core/hybrid processing : It is just the best for my workflow and my PC (I7-14700K)

[@beatsbybnixx]

@chrism541 depends on what you need the DAW for but; VST Connect is a feature that makes it better and VST System Links allows you to pair to computers together for one session. I mean if you don't need these features then it's not better; and that's just a few things I've notice Cubase does the other do not.

[@janhaliski9297]

You won't finding me badmouthing Sonar. I'm not familiar with the latest version, but I was on board with them from Sonar 1. I do think that the Cubase MIDI remote feature has put several of my mothballed controllers back into action. That's worth a lot in my book. I also find the workflow easier, as well as more logical and intuitive. It is also good for not crashing as much. The quality of the included VSTs is superior. Not so snazzy to look at, but they function well. Personally, I would like to see some zany skins included, but that is not likely to happen.

[@Quant-Beat]

Cubase is kind of an enhanced form of Logic. I tried Studio One a few days ago just to see if the free warp was better but I realised that I could not do internal recording as easily as in Cubase. I worked with Pro Tools also extensively and many bigger projects would have been a nightmare to route and organise in Pro Tools so Cubase appeared to be a better choice than I ever knew about from the start.

[@DJreeik]

What’s the best DAW for 2000s / 90s hip pop like Dre type beats? And what’s the best DAW for 2000s punk / rock instrumentals? Like Linkin park, Avril Lavigne etc.

[@MyOwnWayMusic]

I like Logic Pro and Cubase Pro. Cubase has certain features that are missing in other DAW’s like real time midi keyboard controlled pitch correction and alterations. Chord track which is an amazing feature. Harmony block creator.. Logic is great too and comes with built in mastering assistant, great stock plugins and software synths, drummer track and so on..

[@CRASS2047]

Same. I mostly use Logic, but have Cubase pro

[@siriusfun]

Yep!

[@DJreeik]

What’s the best DAW for 2000s / 90s hip pop like Dre type beats? And what’s the best DAW for 2000s punk / rock instrumentals? Like Linkin park, Avril Lavigne etc.

[@dustintheblacklight]

@@DJreeik Try Reason or Cubase Elements

[@tuxievous420]

I’ve tried alot of Daws and it’s Logic for me. I did not know the answer and was open to listening but 100 it’s the best as far as workflow. I think Ableton is up there as well to be honest but that’s something we can debate about

[@GearStuffandThings]

Logic is the jam

[@tuxievous420]

@@GearStuffandThings❤

[@WarrenPostma]

Love the painter prep analogy. GIRATS. A little considered part of DAW selection is hardware support. Some very large and complex aggregate audio interface and digital mixing systems are easier to manage in one DAW than another. Some very pro-level control surfaces work properly with only one or two DAWs. If you own some giant control surface that makes your DAW look like a big studio console, with 32 flying faders, or if you use some digital-mixing/routing workflow that uses some very high end hardware with software integration only for one or two DAWs, that's your decision made for you. Some of us have a 2 channel audio interface, a pair of cans, and an attitude. Some of us have a few million dollars in gear. It's not the same thing for the people with a lot of gear. Pro Studios tend to stick with what they've been using for 30 years, because there's too much resistance to the risk of ever changing what works. "Standard" is another way of saying "Risk Averse". And when your whole business rides on opening the doors and having ANY mix engineer show up on any day and do anything they need to do, and another mix engineer show up another day, and do what they need to do, it's not about the software, it's about not rocking the boat. DAW Software is a jigsaw piece, in a complex puzzle, made up of partly of hardware, partly of software, and MOSTLY made up of people.

[@Jekaniah-jm7gq]

I own studio 1 and I love it. There’s so much under the hood with them waiting to explore. It’s a learning curve but I love that I can mix and master and create in the same space. And yes, it’s so all about “painting.” Very hard work but once some magic happens it’s so exciting for me

[@DWHarper62]

The editing and creation of sounds is fabulous too... Love, Love, Love Studio One and I don't have to deal with the Apple universe...

[@Jekaniah-jm7gq]

@@DWHarper62 I totally agree. Please check out my latest track “Aeriform” all created in Studio 1 version 5 of course. I’m composing a themed album just now and loving creating amazing soundscapes…kzbin.info/www/bejne/d2rQhZ9pZbKFncksi=FGTLWGjlP4u3yxCV

[@shestudiossheila7423]

Yesssss! S1 Rules!❤

[@DJreeik]

What’s the best DAW for 2000s / 90s hip pop like Dre type beats? And what’s the best DAW for 2000s punk / rock instrumentals? Like Linkin park, Avril Lavigne etc.

[@_mickmccarthy]

For me, it's all about what you do with it. Some have different workflow tendancies (Ableton vs FL for example), but as long as the basics are covered it should all really be personal preference IMO. The DAWs used by my preferred artists varies quite a bit (Logic by The Midnight, Ableton by Com Truise, a stupidly old version of FL by Timecop1983), but they can all make great music with them.

[@mohitrahaman]

I make synthwave on Reaper

[@VigilanteWilliamson]

​@@mohitrahaman Me too

[@DJreeik]

What’s the best DAW for 2000s / 90s hip pop like Dre type beats? And what’s the best DAW for 2000s punk / rock instrumentals? Like Linkin park, Avril Lavigne etc.

[@mohitrahaman]

@@DJreeik any, you will eventually use 3rd party VSTs anyway so DAW choice does not matter. Reaper is all around solid for the ease of access and workflow.

[@MartinStrang]

I started with Cubase in 2005. Hated it. Ive been using Logic for the past years and works flawlessly for me, but I wan to give Studio One a try

[@one.bleach1349]

I started with logic and loved it but I switched to PC so I started using reaper and been using that for the past 3 years, live it to death but just was curious what's out there so I started Studio One and I must say... Studio One is actually a very clean and powerful DAW, very customizable, and similar workflow to Logic and Reaper but not exact. Honestly definitely worth a shot!

[@adamcoe]

Reaper. I wouldn't have always said that, but absolutely Reaper. I was a Cakewalk/Sonar user for many years, Pro Tools for several as well and the only answer at this point is Reaper. It started out maybe a little entry level but those days are long gone. You can even make it look like any other DAW if you have a background in any of the other majors, but without question, 60 dollars for a program that's adaptable, configurable, and customizable as Reaper is absolutely no choice at all. There is nothing that even comes close in terms of being able to make it your own. The fact that it wasn't even mentioned here is an astonishing and frankly an embarrassing exclusion. Logic is a lovely program but it's not doing anything that the other platforms don't do.

[@petertremblay3725]

Typical audio elitists, they avoid talking about reaper because it's too complex for their simple mind!

[@GCKelloch]

...and they just added the track/fx wiring window a la Tracktion.

[@rhizomorph-music]

I'm a REAPER user too. It's so much the "dark horse" of DAWs... as good as any of them, better than quite a few, and no one seems to know about it.

[@DJreeik]

What’s the best DAW for 2000s / 90s hip pop like Dre type beats? And what’s the best DAW for 2000s punk / rock instrumentals? Like Linkin park, Avril Lavigne etc.

[@ruddock7]

@@petertremblay3725 I use Reaper and Samplitude and i agree with you!!

[@Byron101_]

former hardcore Pro Tools, Logic and Studio One user. Now primarily on Cubase 12 and...very happy. Yes, Cubase has the best flexible daw mixer and the best midi editing composing capabilities. Cubase onstock effects and synths are top notch in these days and absolutely comparable to expensive purchased plugins. I really like the fast creative Samplertrack, Direct Offline Processing and the Control Room e.g. great GUI too. I´m in Post Pro, Voice Over video, Orchestral Midi Composing and EDM Sounddesign. For all tasks a solution, highly recommend, I must say.

[@cesmcmyth]

Interesting about the Midi editing composing capabilities. I am on logic, tempted to jump to Cubase, but have many recommendations for Studio 1. You've on all three. So, is Cubase definitively a superior MIDI composing tool? cheers

[@Quant-Beat]

True and Cubase has the very best routing and structuring, along with countless more aspects.

[@siriusfun]

!00% agree.

[@appar1tixn]

then tell me how can you do chains with feedback in them? protools, logic, heck. even ableton and bitwig have it and yet, s1 and cubase still think we're all stupid here.

[@maplefoxx6285]

Am going to have to go with Reaper. It has good quatization and humanization. I could not stand how ableton works for midi workflow. Reaper you can customize your toolbar to anything you want and same with hotkeys, I have over 4000 3rd party scripts for Reaper, took me 8 months to customize it to my liking and I still add things every now and then to my custom settings. I used to use Cubase and Ableton. Reaper is not easy to learn, but is worth it. It gets updated almost once a month.

[@OrpheusAudioAcademy]

That's awesome you have that many hotkeys down!

[@maplefoxx6285]

​@@OrpheusAudioAcademy I have around 20 hotkeys i use consistently. And maybe 40 to 50 buttons in my toolbar, you can make custom icons for the buttons it is neat. What the scripts do are all custom actions. i went through the entire list and picked out the ones I like. There are still a lot more. They are .lua files that open little apps in Reaper. For example the Bus Driver by Monkeybars which is recently new. It is a Routing manager for larger projects. Reaticulate which is an articulation keyswitch manager for orchestral libraries. That is the main reason I stick with Reaper. We just have a lot of useful tools like this and it seems there is a new one every few weeks. People are always making new things. I code my own banks for Reaticulate for my kontakt libraries. It is pretty neat how it all works, takes a lot of time. I like this guy in the video. you have done a few good interviews. He seems to know a lot. Thanks!

[@Cloud-Records]

studio one is like this too.. hence why I can't get away from it haha, whats your favorite toolbar command? I put long strings of macro commands on there have hotkeys that trigger different templates/ setups 🤘🤘

[@maplefoxx6285]

@@Cloud-Records I like the multi track or single track edit command for CC lanes, So I can draw in dynamics for mulitple tracks at once in the midi piano roll window. I like the scripts people make for Reaper like Reaper Bus Driver, Reaticulate, Visual Mixer. There is a lot those are 3 of the best ones.

[@Cloud-Records]

@@maplefoxx6285 thats amazing, thanks for that! I get lost in the weeds sometimes - the possibilities are literally endless. Multiple Tracks at once and/or Multiple FX parameters to a single dial. Calls for some amazing sound design results!

[@mickjames7962]

Just going to give a shout out to Cubae 12 Pro here, amazing DAW, and the entry level one is very powerful. If you use Virtual Instruments in my experience it's easily the best even better (and more stable) than Logic (including on a Mac which is surprising). But it's also a very well rounded midi, production and virtual instrument package - it's basically the best when you want the best of everything in one package.

[@Byron101_]

absolutely. Cubase = Pro Tools and Logic in one daw.

[@mohitrahaman]

bae

[@kingslaphappy1533]

Cubae?

[@CirTap]

This wasteful 3D GUI they introduced a while back feels very wobbly and incoherent, like the audio pool. I never liked working with it since. Some workflows are still sh!t and I wish they'd add more of the audio editing features from WaveLab. Those tiny popups to edit stuff are just ridiculous, esp on large screens. Some parts of the UI haven't changed in 20 years. I'm running Cubase since the Atari days, skipped the occasional versions on Windoze so I hope the redesign in Cubase 13 will fix thus. Haven't updated yet.

[@mohitrahaman]

@@CirTap It's ok to not update due to inconvenient workflow changes. Some people still do use Windoze 7 because they run legacy stuff and its convenient to them. BTW something weird is going on with google chrome's UI recently and the updates are force fed, cant be controlled through flags anymore. People that bring such ridiculous changes to "modernize" software should be held back and thoroughly questioned about why they did it.

[@benjaminbarry5589]

Digital Performer is a really good DAW for me because of real time midi plugins you can insert on the mix track. Doing this allows me to stack midi plugins one after the other just like I would with an audio plugin. So I can apply a little bit of quantization and then copy that setting to other tracks. Or I can make slight adjustments if something sounds too robotic. Most DAWs force you to commit to a certain quantize setting so later on I wouldn't be able to see what quantize settings I used originally. This can be critical with midi as some patches have a different feel due to the ADSR envelope so if I change a patch on the keyboard I need to change my quantize settings to maintain the feel I want.

[@kwizo1]

Digital Performer is so underrated. It's my DAW of choice even though I own ProTools, Logic Pro, Studio One 3, and Ableton 11. I also create in Maschine since it's inception but I always mix and edit audio in Digital Performer. It's also the only DAW I use for live audio playback!

[@mijnordna]

I’ve used Digital Performer for many years and I have no desire to change, it works perfectly for me. Too bad it’s fallen a bit out of favor with the youngsters.

[@DJreeik]

What’s the best DAW for 2000s / 90s hip pop like Dre type beats? And what’s the best DAW for 2000s punk / rock instrumentals? Like Linkin park, Avril Lavigne etc.

[@gravityfreaksmusic]

Yeah, good points. Ich work in PT, Logiv, Ableton and Cubase. Cubase being my first DAW I learned deeply. As with every computer application, there are frustrating aspects to it, but I can navigate a session with a band breathing down my neck quickly, without dropping the ball. That, to me, is the fundamental aspect of using anything. There are features in every DAW that all the others can't do. I go to Cubase for linear mixing work. It's very deep. I can see why many people would chose the way more uncluttered Logic, as their DAW of choice, and I find my self using it more and more, as it runs stable on a mac like no other application. Ableton Live has so many features for sounddesign and just pure jamming. I use it a lot for writing and coming up with ideas. For editing and mixing I would no touch it. If you are starting out, give them all a spin and pick the one that speaks to you. Then, learn that thing inside and out and get off the DAW Wars. :) Cheers! P.S. Pro Tools is for old people!

[@tonyrapa-tonyrapa]

Quite honestly, most DAWs are all very good and up to the task. I think you just need to pick one, learn how to use it properly and get on with making music.

[@ZeroG]

I've been on DP since like 2003 and tried all the others, but only DP has "chunks". Like I have ONE session document for ALL my band's recording sessions and just add a new "chunk" for each rehearsal, whereas with Logic or PT there is no easy way to have lots of different sessions in one document. But you can always take your stems to another appS

[@LukeRedfern12]

Started with Sonar 3, upgraded to Sonar 6 PE. Someone recommended Studio One, so I gave S1V3 a crack and loved it. I've Upgraded to S1V5 - don't see myself changing. Such an Awesome DAW.

[@matthewgaines10]

The surprise is there is no surprise. The best DAW is the one that works best for how you work, it best organized to how your brain perceives things, and you can get the most work done on for the music you’re trying to make. The is no best DAW. Only what works best for you. It’s really that simple. Demo a few that catch you eye and pick the one that best serve your purposes.

[@vgspro5365]

I have worked with Digital Performer more than any other DAW. I think mostly because I think in a linear fashion. And with the addition of their clips window, I can now think more like other DAWs are designed. I bought Ableton Live 11 recently just to learn to work with something different. I like it as well. I think for more orchestral complex stuff, I will stick to Performer, but I also want to also explore keyboard and synth comp, so I am going to toy around in Ableton 11 for that. I have an NI Maschine MK3, so one of my next phases of learning will be how to transfer work done in Maschine 2 to either Ableton 11 or in some cases DP 11.

[@rafaelhernandez5550]

I have Ableton for long time and I really like but now I am learning Orquestra and I got Digital Permormer but I feel it`s difficult to learn I will need some time with it. Thanks

[@WarrenPostma]

i don't get DP at all. I tried it and it feels like an antique.

[@vgspro5365]

@@WarrenPostma I don't think it is for everyone. And for me, it depends on how I am approaching a piece of music. I can certainly see how other DAWs might inspire my own writing in a different way. That is why I always like to explore other DAWs. But I still love DP, and have a lot of use for it.

[@dollaonthabeat]

Studio One the best overall DAW. If it didn’t exist I’d use Logic or Cubase. #S1Gang.

[@prod.image86]

Whats so good about Studio One ??? As a means to features and workflow

[@kittycloudz813]

Imo / exp (production) Bitwig - (Live performance) Ableton - (mixing) Logic or Harrison mixbus

[@Pooter-it4yg]

DAWs nowadays are like word processors - they all function the same. The only way in which one is "better" than another is if you find it easier to use for the work you want to do. There is also the consideration of collaboration (which is why so many people use the ones that are considered "industry standard"). That said however, most engineers would far prefer you to send tracks and leave the treatment to them without fiddling with the project files during the process. If you are going to work that way, you also have to bear in mind that you and your collaborators will need the same VST and VSTi plugins.

[@GuyVignati]

I happily use Nuendo 12 which is substantially an enhanced version of Cubase (even the audio engine sounds a little bit better apparently). For me it’s unbeatable, I’m a soundtrack composer and really can make anything in it at absolute professional level.

[@PerryCodes]

That might have been true 25 years ago, but shortly after the audio engine was rewritten for Nuendo, it was back-ported to Cubase. They are both exactly the same now.

[@blackbirdofficialis]

The audio engines of both cubase & nuendo are the exact same

[@Alex-bc7qi]

It’s good enough for Hans Zimmer.

[@ontimewreckchords1211]

I was using Cubase 12 and it’s brilliant but I love Logic Pro, I still want to use Reason as well

[@Quant-Beat]

Importantly, it DOES matter which DAW one uses. If a process is like ten times as requiring, time consuming, it is very likely that the intended process gets diminished, compromised or even left out.

[@DJreeik]

What’s the best DAW for 2000s / 90s hip pop like Dre type beats? And what’s the best DAW for 2000s punk / rock instrumentals? Like Linkin park, Avril Lavigne etc.

[@samgray49]

I use two DAW's for my workflow. Studio One Artist and Tracktion. I also occasionally use Ardour V which for me is a great little DAW that works on Linux, but since Studio One jumped to Linux, and it get's better and better, I am fully swapping to S1 for Linux.

[@blessidunion]

Great interview. My history of DAWS/Sequencer goes like this: 1. Roland MC 500 MK2 with 8trk cassette 2. Cubase on Atari computer. 3. Cubase on PC and Sound Design Session 8 on PC 4. Digital Performer on Mac - Acid on PC 5. Logic on Mac 6. Ableton Live on Mac. I learned Ableton to play backing tracks for live band and DJ. Now it's my go to DAW. I do still own current versions of Logic and Digital Performer but rarely use them. I found that once you go away from a DAW for a longer period of time it's harder to get back in the groove but Ableton is the fastest for me to get back creating after being away from it.

[@GeorgePiazza]

Wow! Another Session 8 user. In 1990, I had Cubase on an Atari 1040 sync'd (via SMPTE timecode) to a 1/2-inch 8 Track Otari tape machine. 7 analog tape tracks, and at least 8 solid midi tracks to trigger hardware synths, etc. during mixdown. In 1994, got an 8 track Session 8 system, running on an IBM with a 25 MHz CPU (Heheheh).. Just enough processing power to crank out 8 waveform views after a recording pass (it took a minute or three to produce those waveform visuals). Of course, all the actual audio processing was done on the special ISA card; and the converters (two 4-IO, sync'd via word clock) were 16 bit, and probably jittery as hell. And you had to back everything up to DAT tape (which took longer than 'real-time' since you were backing up 2 tracks at a time), after filling the 1 GB SCSI drive that cost a fortune bc it had to have a seek time under 17ms. In 1998, (after a brief flirtation with Cakewalk), Cubase finally had a reasonable audio & midi system, with PLUGINS! Expensive plugins, of a quality that would be considered laughable today, but still, it was a semi-real audio recording platform in a standard Computer system. Kinda been with Cubase ever since, but it is as the interviewee said - it's as much about familiarity as ease of use (Cubase does suit my orchestral compositional needs well, unlike Studio One & Pro Tools, the other DAWs I've work on in the last 14 years). But I see the appeal of Studio One (though my last version was 2.5). The midi editing sucked, but the overall system was great for recording and mixing, and it had basic mastering built in as well. A touch more stable too. (I've never liked Pro Tools - don't find it intuitive OR flexible.) Great overall take on DAWs in this vid. Sadly, the OS world is getting out of hand. Windows is more and more bloated and 'cloud' dependent, and (though my experience is limited) Mac is supposedly 'Minor Version' specific, hardware dependent and rather pricey. IMHO, because of the expansive 'do everything and make it so the average user doesn't have to worry about X, Y & X' approach by the OS developers, the DAW makers can't ever be sure that a given OS (major & minor release) on a given system will be totally accommodating for their DAW. To be honest, I'd probably switch to a dedicated hardware system if it weren't for interface & plugin flexibility. Shame. I had a Windows XP system that took 200 MB of memory to run and my DAWS rarely crashed. IN 2013, finally switched to Windows 7, and after a brief struggle, finally got it stable and rocking for DAW use. Spent more time reading the 1800 page 'Windows 7 Insise and Out Deluxe Edition' than I would have preferred. Just got a new system with Windows 11; it's been over 5 weeks and I'm still prepping it for DAW use (and reading 'Windows 11 Inside and Out' - and the RME Fireface UFX III manual - and trying not to watch too many 'how to' KZbin videos - and putting off rearranging the gear racks). Annoying. Even though 'automatic update' is turned off, the system still manages to update stuff I will never use and didn't ask for.. Maybe one day I'll actually make some music again. Starting to miss that Otari 8 track, Soundcraft board, Summit 2 Ch Tube Preamp, Lexicon MXP, Yamaha SPX 90, Valley People Dynamite & BSS compressor. Simpler times. Cheers!

[@Camdeand]

I feel like most people are not familiar with this DAW, but I've been using Tracktion Waveform for several years now and I absolutely love it. It's very flexible, customizable, the user interface is very friendly... I absolutely love the workflow. The licensing for it is excellent as well... you pay once for a perpetual license of that version, and whenever a new version comes out that you feel inclined to upgrade to, they give you a good discount for it as well.

[@tomikalevi6024]

Mixcraft should have a mention here.

[@SaintThomas13]

I've been thinking of trying Mixcraft, I've been a Acid Pro man from day one and have done nothing else since besides a little Fl Studio

[@choimdachoim9491]

Mixcraft was simple to operate without delving deep into instructions when I started using it in 2017. I'm trying Reaper this week because so many people have favorable opinions of it. I unsuccessfully tried installing it 2 years ago.

[@just2comment2]

I use Mixcraft, its easy to use and not a huge learning curve at all and don't have to menu dive to find things which annoyed me with another DAW. I have bought a lot of VSTs so its sounds as good any any other DAW.

[@williambaker9506]

Randomly came across this video while researching today's DAWS and pleasantly surprised to see you filmed this at my old school yard (Unity Gain) with Master Sensei Anthony Ianucci,.. Legend. Great instructor and offers such a great program. I fondly recall those days, can't believe its been 20 years. Oof. Time Flies... He'll still be rocking Digital Performer in 20 more years, I haven't touched it since then personally, but its a solid daw. as is logic... (I never got the work flow with Ableton...) I've been with logic all this time, but I'm wanting to get adventurous.. it'll be interesting to see what AI will offer the world of recording In the coming years... (sure its cheating, kinda)

[@OrpheusAudioAcademy]

That’s so cool, William! I’m a Unity Gain grad as well. Graduated in 2019. Anthony is definitely a legend. I’ve heard good things about Ableton, but never liked the workflow myself as well. I really think it’s hard to beat Logic if you are composing your own songs and arranging sounds. I used to use Cubase on PC, but Anthony convinced me to switch over to Mac and Logic.

[@Hardcrafter2807]

I like this take. Use what you think works best for you. Try a few DAWs out and if you feel that one just clicks for you, roll with it.

[@Kaleid_999]

Im loving how reaper is getting the recognition slowly that it deserves

[@ericchips9314]

What DAW should someone learn if they don't have Logic and want to work with sheet music? While Pro Tools remains popular, many other DAWs exist. In the end, the most expensive audio hardware and software can't guarantee a good song. However, in a professional setting, workers have to collaborate on the same project using the same software. You might be a video editing prodigy, but if you apply to video production studios in LA with iMovie on your resume, well... 😅 Cubase, FL Studio, Reaper, Ableton Live, Bitwig, and countless other DAW's might be popular among audiophiles, but if it's not used professionally, what do you do? Some DAW's will eventually dethrone Pro Tools and Logic. Over a decade ago, I used Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro. When I applied to work at the News as a Producer, they used Avid across the board - Media Composer and Pro Tools, and Avid hardware only. They loved my work, but I didn't get the job. 😅

[@zeppo20]

I used Cubase for years, the PT not for midi. Now Studio One does it al for me.

[@mdtcomm1533]

Digital performer is my preference, but it really depends on what you started out with and what you know best. And what kind of work you do. Are you using only midi or only audio recording or both? They all sound good and are very well developed. Has anyone out there really used all the DAWS for an extended period of time to actually compare? I doubt it.

[@TaiChiRehab]

Used DP for 20 years - great software - abandoned it for Luna. Luna still missing in some areas but won’t be long before matches or beats but, Luna way in front in other areas

[@deetgeluid]

Used to be a ProTools guy, but since you have to lease it I’m looking for something new.

[@tebqzik_music]

Was on Sonar and Cubase since early days.. but now im on Cubase due its significant imporovement in the last 5years , Cubase its go get House now from all Angles

[@jamesnyers1721]

Keep in mind: most people when listening to music, go for the emotional impact. They don't care if the mix is imperfect. Songwriting always trumps recording and mixing. You can write a song in any DAW, but i think Logic helps the most with that process. Audio editing might be superior in other DAWS, but the same thing can be achieved in Logic with maybe an extra step or differently.

[@Jaburu]

what tools dos Logic have to help with songwriting?

[@jamesnyers1721]

The drummer is number one for me. If you play a guitar part it can follow it, still adding personality and a human touch to it. There is a lot more to the drummer. If you have an ipad and get Logic Remote, you can build chord progressions with it. Just tell Logic what key do you want the song to be in and will give you all the chords that are useful. Third: it comes with a gazillion loops and synths and sound packs that can be easily mangled and be very inspiring. Later you can even delete them as you build a song. It just helps with the creativity. Live loops. Try things together in seconds without copy pasting sections etc. Again the iPad with Logic Remote helps here immensely. Step sequencer, helps with coming up with melodies and drum beats. (Logic remote takes this even further, FREE by the way). @@Jaburu

[@le-berry]

Logic is fine but I think Cubase has some nifty stuff as well. I don't consider a drummer being a writer tool. Cubase has some chord and scale stuff (I'm not a cubase user) which are praised by some. I don't miss anything and for every need there is a solution or option. Writing is done inside the brain. Being able to push record afterwards to recover the thing you just played without being in recording is a write tool which proved it's use (to me but I don't know if logic is unique for that feature) Most features adapted in logic are pretty great and they work about great. It's a don't worry just work daw in my opinion.

[@kontemplatemusic2189]

Logic comes with 50GB of samples. Cubase comes with 35GB, but it gives you VST with instruments exceedeing far beyond capabilities of any other DAW on the market. That includes sound generators, pad makers, drum machines, sampler and ADSR based synthesizers with 8 genarators included with trhe DAW! So my answer to Logic as a best DAW is " B**TCH PLEASE"! The guest said: it is whats in the package - Cubase (wont even mention Nuendo) comes with best mixer, best stock plugins, best workflow, best virtual instruments, best samplers, best routing, best features and best suport for VST technology..... Only DAW that can get close to it is Studio One. And i tired all of them. Worked on some for years (Pro Tools, Ablerton and Logic) and there is no comparison. None (appart fron Stidio One recently) come close to the podium. There is no third place, just void and a mile of mud between them.

[@thetheoryguy5544]

Bro BitWig is probably the best daw on the market.

[@JagtarSingh-se8lw]

Also include price difference if you wanna say bitch please. Logic only 200$ where cubase stands around 600$

[@morbidmanmusic]

you need to relax

[@morbidmanmusic]

@@thetheoryguy5544 there is no best. It is what you need and what features work for you. Period the end.

[@freqhandy]

​@@thetheoryguy5544 bitwig is cool but they are extremely different in editing capabilities and workflow. Bitwig has a leg up on looping/performance in certain ways....

[@CrisCozy]

Started with PT and used S1, Ableton, Logic. I ended up going back to PT when they went back to perpetual. If I would ever switch it would be S1 or Logic.

[@teashea1]

Reaper also has no different track types. There is only one track type.

[@user-ti4tf4kn3o]

I understand your frustration with the lack of shortcuts and the seemingly arbitrary differences between DAWs. Cubase/Ableton works for me, and I find that Logic's extensive access to pitch bend and other features is a bit too much for my liking, even though it has great sounds. I prefer simplicity. FL studio/Pro Tools, I will never use due to a tiresome work flow. Why would someone design a car with a steering wheel that turns the car right when you turn left? Ultimately, it doesn't really matter which DAW you choose as long as you feel comfortable using it.

[@filiperodriguesmusic]

I used Cubase on Atari ST then Cubase SX3 then few years with Logic X until 2015. Since then I use Studio One almost 9 years since version 3. I won’t change it for nothing!

[@Younghead]

It was an honour meeting you Craig Kelly and getting to know you a little bit, and it sure was something special seeing you ride and pick your lines on the mountain in Stubai Austria 🇦🇹. You were and still are by far the best Snowboarder that I’ve ever seen flow down mountain with unlimited style. R.I.P. Craig Kelly……. 💫✨🤙

[@CC-Pi]

The best DAW is the one that you know how to use and to be able to execute any creative idea that you have with out hesitation, they are all really good in this day and age so I would stick with what ever is working for you, personally I have been a Cubase user for 25 years and there is no idea that have had that I haven't been able to bring to life with it.

[@Sosha666]

As ever, it depends what you are doing, and to an extent up until you hit a roadblock, what you are familiar with. I can’t get away from sequoia for editing classical, restoration, and mastering. I like protools. I’m nowhere near as fast as I should be with it, but It’s rock solid mixing and archiving, and I love love the ability to print multiple mixs. its midi suits me as but All I really do is trigger sound effects with it. It forces and encourages tidiness. Nuendo I find a very steep learning curve. Powerful, It’s retiming algorithms are stupendous. Reconform is handy, there’s a whole bunch of stuff I don’t use daily which looks great and nixes a whole lot of 3rd party plugins, it plays well with others. But ouch. One day I’ll have the time to actually properly get to grips. Logic is a deal once you buy a Mac. It’s dialogue editing annoyed me 6 years ago, but then I wasn’t familiar with the program and sorting out someone else’s mess at the time. Pc based so a non starter for me now boot camp is no longer possible.

[@shashanksharma17]

I have used almost every DAW and Ableton Live is the best for music production and audio engineering.. Though I love Studio One..

[@jorgedejesustejedavaldez5283]

interesting take. I use many different Daws; all have different capabilities as pros and Cons. And even when people say: "all DAW sound the same" I have to say that the plugin choice (Stocks plugins) and the workflow and Pitch and time-shifting algorithm make you sound different! So with that said, Which DAW has the best Stock Plugins and Pitch- Time Shifting algorithm, Also which one has the best workflows for different scenarios (recording, Mixing, Mastering, Producing, Composing)? All of this matters when you're searching for a DAW that Fits you.

[@thomasthomas8091]

I've worked with Cubase, Protools, Sony Acid, and various others, and eventually settled on Mixcraft 3 (10.5 now) and never looked back.

[@tranquilitybase6417]

Samplitude/Sequoia. 32-float since the 90’s. I’ve used many others and prefer the transparency of Samplitude.

[@victorudosen4754]

your comment just made my day😀

[@viniciuscampos2144]

So He's saying that LOGIC PRO X, is the easier DAW to begin producing and to do the things faster, right guys?

[@midtown3221]

Cakewalk for me. Its FREE and I save so much money and put that money towards VSTs and monitors and soon a new midi controller

[@lastdaysguitar]

I'm gonna save ya'll some time: "REAPER".

[@MrTunes333]

Used Cubase for years and its great and every bit as good if not better than Logic. But Reaper just charmed me and allowed me to customise so much how I like it. It might lack in the instrument and plugin area, but it covers the basics enough and is more all about the DAW than the samples and treats. With the money you save just buy more samples and a plugin packs elsewhere, job done.

[@haliaeetus8221]

So how was the workflow in Reaper when you got started? Same as others?

[@MrTunes333]

@@haliaeetus8221 At first its very stripped down and looks empty, So you work out how to do stuff and its kind of buried in menus and stuff, but then you learn that you can create a tool bar and stick what you want on your tool bar, and most of the things I enjoyed in Cubase could be implemented in Reaper. you need to give it a bit of time but once you get the ball rolling it is just set up as you like it without stuff you don't use as much. So I guess the answer is, there is no work flow at first, you kind of create it, Demo is free and only 15mb, so worth a play around.

[@shan5445]

Cakewalk used to have a great DAW but Studio One is the best i have used.

[@clydesight]

I used Digital Performer 11 on my Windows 10 Pro box, but it could not deal with the built-in REALTEK sound card, and put out distortion because it could not lock down a bit and sample rate. I tried ASIO-4ALL, and DP 11 dropped the output volume to unacceptable low levels. Moved to BitWig, NO problems at all! Tried out Reaper, excellent! Tried Ableton, everything worked fine. Tried DP again and no luck, it hated my sound card. Then it crashed. Not all DAWS can work with all hardware and in all situations. Obviously, something in my rig is not up to snuff with DP11. So, DP11 had to go. If your DAW can't output a decent sound or work with your computer, it isn't very good.

[@derrek_on_youtube]

After 20+ years of DAW usage (Cakewalk, SONAR, Reason, Studio One, Bitwig, Mixbus 32c, Logic, ProTools, Luna) -- I've "currently" settled on: Recording/Mixing (order of preference/use): Reason 12, Logic Project Mastering/Release: Studio One (because of its metadata features -- artwork, etc)

[@Arcessitor]

I like it when someone just gives an answer that isn't "hurr durr it's the engineer not the tool." Refreshing.

[@paulmark992]

i choose ableton wholeheartedly because of the flexibility in my needs for a daw.

[@AlfredoZauberer]

For Windows Systems is it „Samplitude Pro X“. For Apple, Pro Tools or Logic. For Linux, Reaper I think so.

[@pdbordelon]

Great info. Im struggling with which DAW to use. I have a new IMAC with Logic Pro and a new UA Apollo Solo Thunderbolt 3 interface. Trying to decide whether to use Logic or the UA LUNA DAW,.... or try something else. It's so confusing.

[@ryanboyce3365]

More importantly do you have a decent song to put in the daw? Without that I’ve found it doesn’t really matter. Having said that the one you know best is best.

[@bboymac84]

I’m a Ableton user but logic stock sounds do go hard!

[@musicmansell]

I used to teach audio engineering at the LA Recording School, and when I got asked this question I had almost the same answer. They are all just tools, but it's what you do with them that matters. Each DAW has its good and bad, just like consoles did back in the day. SSL desks were crisp and clean sounding, Neve boards could add "warmth," Trident/API had amazing Transients and EQs. I had to know them all and it made me a better engineer for it. Learn what each software does best, and go from there. Just like picking the right mic for the type of instrument you are recording. Probably not going to be throwing a lipstick condensor on the outside of a kick any more than you would throw a Beta 52 on a high hat. (Although maybe that gets good results, who knows, it is all subjective)

[@timacann]

Really depends on what I’m doing. I love Ableton for electronic stuff. If I’m recording my band I prefer working in Logic. I’ll be honest, I haven’t used much else in a while. Used protools and cubase earlier on. Dabbled with Reason but I found it limited at the time mostly due to my own ignorance. I enjoy VCV Rack but it’s a resource hog which makes using it challenging. All in all if I could only have one DAW I’d probably choose Ableton.

[@coverlinetv]

Ive started with cakewalk. Then Sonar. After 7 years with sonar , change to Cubase and Nuendo. Now im stuck with Logic and Studio One. Both has their own advantages. I should say Logic is more straight forward, but Studio one 6.5 is a monster!

[@WaltherSuk]

Got familiar with Pro Tools. Great audio editing, love the workflow too. It is not know for great midi handling, but I'm fine with it as I prefer recording analog audio. I use some midi, without high demands and it works. Logic didn't appeal to my personal prefs but I know it has its own merits. Same as good for audio I believe.

[@DJreeik]

What’s the best DAW for 2000s / 90s hip pop like Dre type beats? And what’s the best DAW for 2000s punk / rock instrumentals? Like Linkin park, Avril Lavigne etc.

[@kiillabytez]

The best DAW is the one that helps you create a finished product: one that doesn't hide its main functions beneath menus, where everything you need is no more than a click away. It should also let you create busses and never open multiple windows or tabs, has a clean layout and very high compatibility with everything you want to do in it. It should never get in the way of your production and retain all your settings and projects the way you last used them. For me, Studio One has always fit the above criteria and has never gotten in the way from a blank page to the final mixdown.

[@derekfromtauranga6012]

The one that you know, doesn’t crash and gets the job done. For me it’s Cubase and it’s only elements version I have which is third down from the top version.

[@kiillabytez]

@@derekfromtauranga6012 What if the only one you know is Audacity? There are limits.

[@jaimeross7507]

Started Years ago with Ableton.....not even knowing what a DAW was...or what Ableton was ...now it is like knowing the back of My Hand.... Now teaching My Child Ableton.

[@JanEkbom]

Started with LMMS (Linux Multimedia Studio) on Ubuntu, bought Bitwig which work on Linux. Went to Windows to be able to use more synths and plugins. Went further to FL Studio and finally settled with Cubase, which has a very good interface, but also a lot of hidden gems.

[@DJreeik]

What’s the best DAW for 2000s / 90s hip pop like Dre type beats? And what’s the best DAW for 2000s punk / rock instrumentals? Like Linkin park, Avril Lavigne etc.

[@JanEkbom]

@@DJreeik Many people use Ableton for hip-hop and EDM, and for rock and pop I can imagine Pro Logic, Pro Tools, Cubase.

[@GearStuffandThings]

Logic is home for me.

[@SgtBoudreau]

Any reason why?

[@nsvo9038]

Reaper hands down

[@FirebrandVOCALS]

I abandoned Logic for Reaper 2 years ago….. best decision ever.

[@robertodagostini4946]

I heard reaper can utilize all cores. While logic can’t. I just wanna know who makes the decisions that end up contributing to this bs.

[@nepntzerZer]

We both know that you wake up at 2-3am and question that decision so don't bullshit me ok?

[@DJreeik]

What’s the best DAW for 2000s / 90s hip pop like Dre type beats? And what’s the best DAW for 2000s punk / rock instrumentals? Like Linkin park, Avril Lavigne etc.

[@allehooop]

Well reaper is so much lightweight and efficent compared to any other DAW. Here Ableton Live user.

[@danielgatica828]

Again that's just your preference. Comes down to preference and what you are doing

[@dekrev]

Just started using DP 11 - I’ve been on Ableton since 2013 and want to try something different- I’m digging it

[@anonymike8280]

And what Beethoven and all the composers of that ilk, known or not, did with an acoustic piano.

[@aspirativemusicproduction2135]

Can someone take the best of FL Studio and Cubase and make a hibrid? All I need is the chord pad from Cubase and the piano roll from FL Studio. Maybe performance thing like in Ableton and filter faders on events like in Mixcraft. Maybe one really good synth like Phaseplant. Why every DAW has to come with shortcomings when one can quite objectively design the most user friendly DAW? I don't know how to create a DAW but sure know what's important to me to make life easier. Easy-good.

[@earledaniels4539]

For overall features and easy work flow, Studio One is the go to DAW. It's also growing rapidly in popularity and may soon be the industry standard.

[@Nykkynn]

I think he is right that DAW is all about being a good mixer, but in the end, they all work the exact same way, and the final product just needs to be the cleanest form of sound. In my opinion, it doesn’t matter what DAW you’re using. If the program you’re using doesn’t result in good sound by the end of it, that’s the reason why it sucks. Whether or not it’s easier or harder to use, that’s benign because people get used to the program and they become wizards at them. I use Ableton and I can even master track using all the filters Abelton has. It’ll upload to SoundCloud as “high definition”. So in the end, I think he’s right, logic is probably the most fluid program there is, but it’s not the best one. There is no best one. If the DAW creates clean sound as a result of your project, it’s a good DAW. That’s the bottom line.

[@Extrikit]

Good discussion. Still on GarageBand here.

[@amwartwork]

i used acid pro 4 back in 2001. and usd acid pro up till version 10 in 2020. in 2014 discovered vsti's. all along getting better and better on guitar. wasnt good at keeping a job down so never spent alot on gear. in 2020 i instaled mixcraft 9 pro studio. ive never looked back! its 50 percent imagination, and the rest is up to the personal preference of what gels with your way of thinking. i knwo people who used really really baisic gear, wired up in a way that isnt ''commonly done'' and they made absolutely brilliant music. i know people with all the gear, but no idea.

[@isaacbugalho]

+1 to Reaper

[@BibotoMusic]

I used one of the "other" very popular DAWs for a long time and while it had some amazing features stability and glitches were an issue. I switched to Pro Tools and it just works. I'm done switching or trying other DAWs. Just buy a perpetual license and you're done.

[@synchro505]

Have always loved Digital Performer and Logic on Mac. Someday I'd like to build a Windows PC and load Cubase on it and give it a go. A friend I collab with uses it and based on watching his workflow, II really like the editing and how well it integrates all the plug-ins (FX and instruments).

[@midlandsynthetics2841]

Mulab 9, does everything i need it to do. But its overlooked becuase its cheap to buy. Go figure.