Still others like the built-in instruments and effects. Others like the simplicity of the interface. Some like the immediacy of being able to put samples and loops together just to mess around or build jam tracks. Users like different aspects of GarageBand. If you don’t mind a steeper learning curve, and don’t have any pressing deadlines coming up, then Cakewalk is a killer choice overall. And, if you do end up wanting to transition to another app, no problem – the skills you learn inside Cakewalk should prove transferable. Whether you’re recording in an amateur and professional capacity, Cakewalk is perfect for all types of projects, and it’s entirely possible you’ll never need another DAW. The benefits are certainly there, though. But the workflow varies significantly from GarageBand, and all the faders, knobs, buttons, and switches might prove a little overwhelming at first.Īs someone who has had to learn a mix of complicated software, like Photoshop, I can appreciate that the transition might not be smooth as you’d like it to be. If you’ve spent time with mixing consoles or other DAWs, then you may feel comfortable out the gate, as it is relatively intuitive. Which is to say, Cakewalk is closer to professional level software, and because of that, its interface is like a traditional mixing interface – kind of like Pro Tools.

Now, it’s all well and good that Cakewalk comes with all the essentials you need to get started (plus a few extras). Cakewalk works exclusively on Windows but is compatible with Windows 7 and above. You also get a library of virtual instruments and studio quality effects, including delay, distortion, compression, gate, EQ, filter, phaser, chorus, flanger, pitch shift, reverb, and more.Ĭakewalk features a 64-bit mix engine, resampling, ARA support, and is touch-enabled.

It features an award-winning user interface, “industry-best” audio engine with VST3 compatibility, and unlimited audio, MIDI, instrument, loop, and auxiliary tracks. Whether you’re looking to compose, record, edit, mix, master, or share, Cakewalk is fully equipped with the tools you need to get the job done. To gain access to Cakewalk, you will need to install the BandLab Assistant and surrender some of your personal details (like your email address), but my recommendation? Download this baby before BandLab changes their mind.

I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw it either. BandLab’s Cakewalk is premium Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software turned free.

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