Types of music making software

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A lot of people don't even really know what they want when it comes to music making software. There are actually a few different types, and knowing this should help you get on the right track to getting some free programs.

Music can be made in a variety of ways. Audacity can be used to simply mix live tracks together, for example. Electronic music can be made in a DAW. You can also create a mix between the two in different programs.

Digital Audio Workstation

A DAW stands for Digital Audio Workstation. There are a number of different pieces of software that come in this category. One of the most notable ones is known as FL Studio, a program many people start out with.

FL Studio
FL Studio isn't free, but it's a good example of a standard DAW. Different DAWs have different features and interfaces.

If you want a free alternative to FL Studio, LMMS is a good one.

Note the similarities
DAWs come in flavors such as Dolby Pro Logic, Cubase, and Ableton Live.

Audio Track Editors

Track editors are programs such as audacity. They allow you to add an already-made track and then mix them in any way you like. Power Sound Editor and Music Editor Free are two other good examples of this kind of music program.

MEF in action
These programs won't let you actually make music. You have to either add the tracks to the programs, or record them within the software. This can be really handy for jamming or recording quick ideas.

Trackers

Trackers are old-school. These came out in the early 80's and were really popular on old computers, such as the Commodore 64 and the Amiga. They're a lot of fun to play with, and can make some really professional tunes despite being made for old computers.

A good modern example of a tracker is Renoise, a kind of DAW made in the old style with new twists. It's highly professional and very versatile.

Renoise: A new take on an old-school concept

Renoise is very, very cool.

These are just a few examples of different program types you can use to make music. Each has its own purpose, and many people end up using multiple programs to create an end product. However you choose to make music is your own personal prerogative. 

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