Choosing a DAW? Here are 7 Things Music Producers Should Consider

Curious about what to look for when purchasing a DAW for music production? (You should be. It’s a critical decision for any aspiring music producer!)

If you’re brave and bold enough to dive into the world of music production and invest in a powerful tool to bring your creative vision to life, you’re in the right place:

• Not all DAWs are created equal—features and workflows vary significantly
• Your choice of DAW can greatly impact your productivity and creative process
• Understanding your needs and goals is crucial for making an informed decision

In this guide, you’ll discover 7 essential factors to consider when choosing a DAW that aligns with your unique requirements and aspirations as a music producer.

Let’s dive in.

1. What’s your goal with using the DAW?

Different DAWs excel in various areas, and understanding why you’re buying a DAW will help you choose the most suitable software for your needs.

For example:

1. Recording and mixing: If you plan to record live instruments or vocals and focus on mixing and engineering, a DAW like Pro Tools, Cubase, or Studio One might be a good choice. These DAWs offer robust recording, editing, and mixing capabilities, with a wide range of tools and plugins for processing audio.
2. Electronic music production: For producers primarily interested in creating electronic music, such as EDM, hip-hop, or pop, DAWs like Ableton Live, FL Studio, or Reason may be more suitable. These DAWs often have built-in virtual instruments, samples, loops, intuitive MIDI sequencing, and automation features.
3. Songwriting and composition: If your main focus is songwriting and composing, a DAW with strong MIDI capabilities and a user-friendly interface, such as Logic Pro (for Mac), Cubase, or Studio One, could be a good fit. These DAWs offer powerful MIDI editing, virtual instruments, and music notation tools.
4. Live performance: For musicians and producers who want to use their DAW for live performances, Ableton Live is a popular choice due to its unique Session View, which allows for easy triggering of clips and real-time arrangement.

2. Is the DAW compatible with your computer’s operating system?

Some DAWs only work for specific operating systems so you don’t want to buy a DAW before knowing which one is compatible with your laptop or desktop.

Here are some popular DAWs and their compatible operating systems:

• Pro Tools: Windows, macOS
• Logic Pro: macOS only
• Ableton Live: Windows, macOS
• FL Studio: Windows, macOS
• Cubase: Windows, macOS
• Studio One: Windows, macOS
• Reason: Windows, macOS
• Reaper: Windows, macOS, Linux
• GarageBand: macOS only
• Bitwig Studio: Windows, macOS, Linux

In addition to checking the operating system compatibility, make sure your computer meets the minimum system requirements for the DAW you’re interested in. These requirements typically include the processor speed, RAM, available storage space, and sometimes specific hardware components like audio interfaces or MIDI controllers.

If you’re using an older computer or one with limited specifications, it’s crucial to verify that your system can handle the DAW’s demands. Some DAWs are more resource-intensive than others, so keep this in mind when making your choice.

It’s always a good idea to visit the official website of the DAW you’re considering and review the system requirements and compatibility information before purchasing to ensure a smooth and efficient working experience.

3. How much are you willing to spend on your DAW?

When choosing a DAW, consider your budget and the features you need. DAWs range in price from free to several hundred dollars. Free or low-cost options like GarageBand, Tracktion Waveform, or Cakewalk by BandLab can be great for beginners to learn the basics of music production. However, they can limit your ability to do certain tasks when compared to more robust DAWs.

Professional-grade DAWs like FL Studio, Ableton, Pro Tools, Cubase, or Logic Pro are more expensive but provide a comprehensive set of tools and industry-standard workflows. Consider your long-term goals and budget accordingly, and remember that you can always upgrade your DAW as your skills and needs grow.

4. Have you tested the DAW (for example a free trial) before committing to buying it?

Before investing in a DAW, you should test it out through a free trial or demo version. Most major DAWs offer time-limited trials that allow you to explore the software’s features, interface, and workflow. Take advantage of these trials to get a feel for the DAW and figure out if you like the interface and the workflow.

During the trial period, try working on a small project or recreating a part of a familiar song to gauge the DAW’s ease of use and effectiveness for your purposes. This hands-on experience will give you valuable insight into whether the DAW is the right choice for you before making a financial commitment.

5. Does the DAW have third-party plugin support?

Third-party plugin support can be an important factor to consider when choosing a DAW. Plugins are additional software components that extend the capabilities of your DAW, offering new virtual instruments, effects, and processing tools. Most popular DAWs support common plugin formats like VST, AU, or AAX, which allows you to use plugins from various manufacturers.

Having a wide range of available plugins can significantly expand your creative options and help you achieve professional-sounding results. When evaluating a DAW, research its plugin compatibility and the availability of both free and paid plugins that align with your needs. A DAW with strong third-party plugin support will provide room for growth and adaptability as you progress in your music production journey.

6. Do you plan on collaborating with other music producers?

If you plan on collaborating with other music producers, you might want to consider the compatibility and popularity of the DAW you choose. While most DAWs can export and import standard audio file formats, using the same or compatible software can streamline the collaboration process.

For example, if you’re working with a producer who uses FL Studio, it might be beneficial to use the same DAW to ensure seamless project sharing and compatibility. Additionally, some DAWs, like Ableton Live and FL Studio, have built-in collaboration features that allow multiple users to work on the same project simultaneously. If collaboration is a priority for you, research the DAWs commonly used in your genre or community and consider their collaboration capabilities when making your decision.

7. Are there enough learning resources for your DAW?

When choosing a DAW, it’s important to consider the availability and quality of learning resources. A DAW with a strong community and ample educational materials will make the learning process way smoother and more enjoyable. Look for the following types of resources:

1. Official tutorials and documentation: Check if the DAW manufacturer provides comprehensive user manuals, tutorials, and how-to guides. These resources are often the most accurate and up-to-date, covering the DAW’s features and workflows in detail.
2. Online video tutorials: Platforms like YouTube, Skillshare, and Udemy offer a wealth of video tutorials for various DAWs. Look for tutorials that align with your skill level and specific interests, such as genre-specific production techniques or advanced mixing and mastering.
3. Online communities and forums: Many DAWs have dedicated online communities and forums where users can ask questions, share tips, and collaborate. These communities can be invaluable for troubleshooting, learning new techniques, and networking with other producers.
4. Third-party training courses: Some companies specialize in creating in-depth training courses for popular DAWs. These courses often provide structured learning paths, project files, and interactive exercises to help you master the software.
5. Books and e-books: Look for well-reviewed books or e-books that cover your chosen DAW. These resources can offer comprehensive guidance and serve as a handy reference while working on projects.

Before committing to a DAW, research the available learning resources and consider their quality, depth, and accessibility. A DAW with a strong educational ecosystem will make it easier for you to acquire the skills needed to create professional-sounding music and grow as a producer.