Macs are world-renowned devices by Apple that boast a massive fan following. There are numerous reasons why Macs are preferred over other computers. Macs offer top-notch performance for starters, which outclasses almost every PC in all aspects. Secondly, the super-polished operating system of Macs, i.e., macOS, packs in all the useful features, functionalities, and utilities any user could ask for. Moreover, Apple enhances the power of Macs by releasing major updates every year. macOS offers numerous native utilities that facilitate users to perform specific actions conveniently. One of the most popular utilities of macOS is GarageBand. According to Apple, GarageBand is a fully-stacked music creation tool that consists of numerous instruments, guitar presets, session drummers sections, etc.
The app is a platform for enthusiasts who wish to learn and experiment with music. GarageBand also offers Touch Bar functionalities that facilitate MacBook users to use the application conveniently. It features a simple and sophisticated design that makes recording, playing, and creating music very fun. However, even though Macintosh GarageBand is a great application for beginners, it misses numerous advanced features. Thankfully, macOS offers support for numerous similar third-party applications. This article will cover some of the best GarageBand alternatives that users can opt for. Let us begin:
- Adobe Audition
Adobe is known for creating top-tier applications, and Adobe Audition is another exceptional application that is a major part of Adobe’s portfolio of creative tools. It is a professional DAW from Adobe that is extensively used by musicians, audio engineers, artists, podcasters, etc., to create top-notch music, edit audio files, etc. One of the most prominent features of Audition is that it offers a feature called “Sound Remover,” which reduces the noise in any clip. Besides this, it also features numerous handy tools, such as the Click/Pop eliminator as well as a spectral frequency selector.
Like GarageBand, Audition also offers users numerous tools to create music or alter pre-existing ones conveniently. The best part about the application is that it is available on all major platforms, including macOS and Windows. It is a paid application that requires users to pay a fixed monthly amount. If you are looking for a reliable GarageBand alternative that offers advanced features, Adobe Audition is an option you can seriously consider.
- FL Studio
FL Studio is a music production app used by most professional music producers and disk jockeys or DJs. It features numerous varieties of sound effects, using which users can develop new beats and rhythms. Besides this, the software also features numerous sample sounds which you can use to create new music. When it comes to instrumental beats, FL Studio stands at the top. Its piano roll consists of advanced features such as arpeggiators, note properties, etc. Besides this, it also features different varieties of synthesizers and effects.
The official applications feature multi-touch support, facilitating users to control the application on all compatible devices. Like Adobe Audition, the software is available on both macOS and Windows. If you wish to purchase the FL Studio application, you must purchase it by paying a one-time fee. The app features numerous editions, and thus, what version will determine the cost. Even though it might seem a bit expensive, its advanced features and functionalities make up for the hefty price tag.
- Studio One
Studio One is another GarageBand alternative you can consider if you wish for a robust and reliable music production software that offers all the necessary features and functionalities. It is a great application that lets users record tons of audio and MIDI tracks. Studio One features tons of inbuilt effects, and thus, you do not need to purchase plugins. If you are working on a long-term project that requires you to create tons of tracks, Studio One is the perfect application for you as it allows users to create unlimited tracks. Another useful feature of the DAW is that it allows users to time-stretch their recordings, meaning users can change their project’s tempo without adjusting its pitch and vice versa.
Studio One also features the drag-and-drop functionality, making it easy for users to use the app to create music more productively. In addition, the app comes with numerous preloaded virtual sound effects, which facilitate users to input any generic beat without hassle. It also features an in-built mastering suite that you can use to create top-tier songs without hassle.
The top-tier DAW from PreSonus is a cross-platform application, i.e., it is available on both macOS and Windows. There are numerous versions of the application available, and depending on the one they choose, users would need to pay a one-time purchase fee to avail of the app.
Even though GarageBand is a great music production app that contains tons of great functionalities, it lags behind others when it comes to advanced features. Hence, if you are looking for a reliable app, you can opt for any of the aforementioned music production tools mentioned above.