The Best Home Recording Software

When setting up a home recording system, you should always start by exploring the software you want to use. Whichever program you decide to use, it will work better on one type of computer than on another. By choosing the software first, you can use the software manufacturer’s instructions to help you set up your computer.

Most software was written for either a Mac or PC and tested using a variety of hardware configurations. Unless you are a computer expert, start with a system that has been tested to work seamlessly with the software that interests you.

For the most part, audio production software falls into the following two categories:

Audio recording software: These software allow you to record multiple tracks (the number depends on the software) and let you edit, equalize, and mix those tracks as well as add effects.

MIDI Sequencing Software: These programs allow you to record, edit, and mix MIDI performance data (without sounds).

Most audio production programs offer both audio and MIDI recording and do a good job of both (and they’re getting better all the time), but some entry-level programs only allow you to record audio or perform MIDI sequences.

If you’re on a tight budget and want to record with both audio and MIDI, make sure the software you’ve chosen allows you to do so. However, choose the software based on its features and whether it suits your work style.