Free Tools & Software

Free DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations)

Cakewalk by BandLab (Windows) This is a full-featured professional DAW that was once a paid product (SONAR Platinum) and is now completely free. It offers unlimited audio/MIDI tracks, advanced mixing and mastering tools, and VST plugin support.

Waveform Free (Windows, macOS, Linux) Tracktion’s Waveform Free is incredibly powerful for a free DAW, offering unlimited tracks and support for VST, VST3, and AU plugins. It’s a great option for various uses, from band recording to electronic music production and podcasting.

REAPER (Windows, macOS, Linux) My peronsal favorite DAW! While technically a very generous trial that can be used indefinitely, REAPER is an incredibly powerful and highly customizable DAW known for its efficiency and low price point if you decide to purchase it later. It supports all major plugin formats.

Audacity (Windows, macOS, Linux) While more of an audio editor, Audacity can handle multi-track recording and basic editing, making it suitable for podcasts, voiceovers, and simple music projects. It supports various plugin formats.

Tenacity an easy-to-use, cross-platform multi-track audio editor/recorder

Free Plugins (VST/AU/AAX)

Effects

• Valhalla SuperMassive (Reverb/Delay): Widely considered one of the best free reverb and delay plugins, capable of creating lush, expansive soundscapes.
• TDR Nova (Equalizer): A versatile dynamic equalizer that can also function as a multiband compressor. Known for its user-friendly interface and transparent sound.
• Limiter №6 (Mastering Limiter): A powerful mastering limiter with multiple stages of dynamic range control, providing transparent limiting for your mixes.
• Wider (Polyverse Music): A simple but effective stereo widening plugin that helps make your sounds feel bigger and more immersive.
• Acon Digital Multiply (Chorus): A high-quality chorus effect that can add width and depth to vocals and instruments.
• Sixth Sample Deelay (Delay): A great free delay plugin that offers a variety of delay styles.
• Tritik Krush (Bitcrusher/Distortion): A versatile plugin for adding lo-fi effects, bitcrushing, and distortion to your audio.
• Audio Damage Rough Rider (Compressor): A characterful compressor known for adding thickness and punch, especially to drums.
• MFreeFXBundle (MeldaProduction): A massive collection of 38 free effects plugins for mixing, mastering, and sound design, covering almost every essential effect you’ll need.
• TAL Plugin Suite: TAL offers a variety of excellent free plugins, including a popular bitcrusher and chorus.