Making music with your computer does not have to be expensive, and this is where free Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) come in. In fact, it is possible to create a song completely from beginning to end using only free software and plugins. Finding a free DAW that suits your needs can be challenging, as there are many available options, each with different features and limitations. To help with choosing a free DAW, several of the available options have been tested, and a list of the best ones on the market has been compiled. This guide focuses on DAWs that are particularly effective for triggering samples, a fundamental process in many genres of music production.
Understanding Free DAWs for Sample Triggering
A free DAW is a software application that allows users to record, edit, and produce audio and MIDI files on a computer. For music producers, especially those working with electronic, hip-hop, or sample-based genres, the ability to trigger samples—play back pre-recorded audio clips—is a core function. The DAWs listed below have been evaluated for their general usability and functionality, with attention given to their overall value as a package. Each offers a unique approach to handling samples, from classic MPC-style workflows to intuitive loop-based creation.
Ableton Live Lite
Ableton Live is one of the biggest names in DAWs, particularly for electronic and sample-based genres. The free version, Ableton Live Lite, is often included with certain audio interfaces or software bundles, such as LANDR Studio. It uses Ableton’s well-loved workflow and is compatible with macOS and Windows.
Key features include multitrack recording and mixing, FX processing, live performance capabilities, sampling, and time stretching. The Ableton Live core library includes hundreds of loops, samples, and presets. A standout feature for sample triggering is the unique “session view,” which makes using loops to compose songs incredibly easy. This view is designed for live performance and improvisation, allowing users to trigger clips and scenes in a non-linear fashion.
Pros: - Uses Ableton’s well-loved workflow. - Includes a variety of effects and instruments. - Inherits features when new major versions of Live are released.
Cons: - Limited to eight tracks.
MPC Beats
Akai’s MPC Beats brings the classic MPC instrument line to the computer. It is described as a gem for beatmakers seeking an iconic workflow on a budget. The DAW is most at home in the genre of Hip Hop and is not the top choice for long audio recording sessions. It has a familiar 16-pad layout and is all about triggering samples, creating loops, and building beats from the get-go. It is packed with built-in plugins and effects to provide extra punch.
A unique feature of MPC Beats is that it can be opened as a VST plugin within any other DAW. This allows producers to use its MPC-style workflow inside a different primary DAW. MPC Beats is compatible with Windows and Mac users and can be downloaded from the Akai website. One downside is that it only allows for eight channels.
Serato Studio Free
Serato Studio combines the essentials of DJing with music production, making it an exciting choice for beginner beatmakers focused on intuitive, loop-based creation. It is compatible with Windows and macOS, and its low system requirements mean it can run smoothly on most computers.
Key features for sample triggering include four decks, four scenes, one audio track, 32 preloaded drum kits, and an auto chord mode. It also features a feel parameter for humanization, which helps tracks achieve a more natural, human touch by avoiding overly quantized sounds that feel too rigid. The key detection and matching feature ensures samples and loops stay harmonically aligned. The free version includes essential audio effects like reverb, EQ, and delay. However, it does not offer automation in the free version and is restricted to one audio track. It supports MP3 export at 320kbps and is compatible with MIDI controllers.
Waveform Free
Waveform Free is a free DAW from Tracktion. It is geared towards beginner producers who have never opened a DAW before. The company offers an in-depth user manual and training videos on its official website, covering everything from getting started to installing plugins and advanced editing.
A cool feature of Waveform Free is the ability to load video files to sync your audio project to visuals like movie scenes or animations. Tracktion recently updated its free DAW to improve video synchronization further. For sample triggering and virtual instrument use, Waveform Free offers an advanced MIDI sequencing workflow and full parameter automation. It can load any major plugin format and comes with a library of audio effects. It also boasts an unlimited track count.
Waveform Free is particularly well-suited for producers who make music using virtual instruments. It allows users to load their own virtual instruments and offers all the necessary MIDI features for sequencing VST plugins.
Studio One Prime by PreSonus
Studio One Prime by PreSonus is a free DAW designed with simplicity and ease of use in mind, perfect for beginners. One of its most praised features is the drag-and-drop workflow, which lets users easily drag in virtual instruments, loops, and effects. For example, to apply reverb to a track, the reverb effect can be dragged directly onto it without navigating extra menus.
It supports unlimited audio and MIDI tracks, a standout feature for free software, making it great for all kinds of projects. While it lacks support for third-party plugins, its native effects are high-quality and sufficient for basic mixing and sound shaping. The Presence XT sampler is a highlight, including over 1 GB of instrument samples, from acoustic pianos and lush strings to modern synth tones. These presets are ready to use, which is ideal for sketching out ideas quickly.
For recording, the multi-track comping feature allows users to record several takes of the same part and piece together the best sections into a seamless final performance. Studio One Prime also comes with 1.5 GB of sample content, including drum loops, percussion samples, and ambient textures, providing a built-in library for immediate use.
Zrythm
Zrythm is a free DAW that comes with all the features expected of a modern audio workstation. The free basic plan allows the use of up to 25 audio tracks in a single project. It is capable of loading any major plugin format and offers an advanced MIDI sequencing workflow. Furthermore, it boasts full parameter automation and a luscious library of audio effects.
The DAW comes with a flexible select tool allowing users to easily select, move, resize, clone, link, loop, delete, and cut objects with a single tool. Some of its features are unique, such as the ability to load SoundFonts as virtual instruments, letting users customize parameters within the app. Zrythm is available for Linux, macOS, and Windows. There are four different plans available: a basic plan (free), a snapshot plan, a bundle plan, and a subscription plan.
Bespoke Synth
Bespoke Synth is a free DAW that the developer describes as a customizable playground for sound. The developer also mentions that it is "like smashing Ableton Live to bits with a baseball bat and then putting it back together." This DAW is available for Linux, macOS, and Windows.
It offers virtually limitless patching and modular experimentation capabilities. If you are a fan of modular synths, you have found the right DAW. However, the modular workflow might be too complex for those seeking a straightforward free DAW.
Comparison and Key Considerations
When choosing a free DAW for triggering samples, several factors should be considered. The first is the track limit. DAWs like Ableton Live Lite and MPC Beats are limited to eight tracks, which may be restrictive for complex projects. In contrast, Waveform Free and Studio One Prime offer unlimited or high track counts (25 in Zrythm's free plan), providing more flexibility.
The workflow is another critical aspect. Ableton Live’s session view is ideal for live performance and loop-based composition. MPC Beats and Serato Studio Free offer a more traditional, pad-based workflow reminiscent of hardware samplers. Studio One Prime’s drag-and-drop interface is highly intuitive for beginners. Waveform Free provides a comprehensive set of tools for a full production cycle, including video syncing.
For users who rely heavily on virtual instruments and plugins, Waveform Free, Zrythm, and Bespoke Synth offer strong support for loading external plugins. Studio One Prime, while lacking third-party plugin support, compensates with a rich library of built-in samples and instruments.
System requirements and compatibility are also important. Most of these DAWs are compatible with both Windows and macOS. Serato Studio Free is noted for its low system requirements, making it accessible on older computers.
Finally, consider the export capabilities. Some free versions, like Serato Studio Free, only allow MP3 export, while others may have limitations on WAV export unless you upgrade. It is essential to check the specific limitations of each free version to ensure they meet your production needs.
Conclusion
The market for free DAWs is rich with options, each catering to different workflows and production styles. For producers focused on sample triggering, choices range from the iconic MPC Beats and the versatile Ableton Live Lite to the beginner-friendly Studio One Prime and the comprehensive Waveform Free. By evaluating track limits, workflow preferences, plugin support, and system requirements, producers can select a free DAW that empowers them to create music without financial investment. It is advisable to download and experiment with a few options to find the one that best aligns with your creative process.