Chances are, if you use it for recording then you'll also want to use it for post-production.
So what are your options?
Here is a list of the major software titles.
Digital Performer (MOTU)
Logic Pro (Apple)
ProTools (Digidesign)
Cakewalk Sonar (Twelve Tone Systems)
Sound Forge (Sony)
Cubase (Steinberg)
Ableton Live (Ableton)
I'm sure there's more. These are the ones that immediately pop into my mind.
Here's the problem...
Everyone claims that the one they use is the best. For example, I prefer Digital Performer and Joe prefers Logic Pro. Which leads me to my main point... My little secret about audio recording software.
You ready?
They're all pretty much the same!
What! How can that be? Now that I've said it, I've probably just ticked a bunch of people off. So let me explain.
The quality of your audio is mostly influenced by your hardware. Your software is a visual tool to help you organize your audio clips.
If you take a close look at each one, you'll notice lots of similarities.
They all...
Record audio
Have similar view options
Provide MIDI capabilities
Support 3rd party plug-ins
Are capable of producing better than CD quality audio
The list goes on.
It's like the argument over which truck is better, Chevy or Ford. They're both a truck, both haul heavy loads, and both get you from point A to point B. Ultimately, it comes down to a matter of personal taste.
So now you're probably asking yourself... Which recording program should I use? If you already own one of these recording programs, then you're all set. Study it, use it, and master it.
If you're just getting started, it's really an easy decision.
First, you can instantly narrow it down by what type of computer you use (Mac or Windows PC). If you use a Mac you can eliminate Cakewalk Sonar and Sound Forge. If you use a Windows PC, then you can eliminate Digital Performer and Logic Pro.
My top choices are Digital Performer for Mac and Cakewalk Sonar for PC. Why? Because those are the two programs I learned first and know very thoroughly. They both sound great and have lots of excellent features.
So pick one, commit to learning it and that will be the right one for you!
