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Hatsubai « Beginner's DAW »
Published on 06/05/11 at 19:43Apple's Garageband is their beginner DAW that they recommend everybody try. It's meant for those who just want to dabble in recording. It's built so that it caters towards simplicity rather than trying to overwhelm the user with tons and tons of options like so many other DAWs out there. It's a bit lacking in terms of compatibility with certain plug-ins out there. While certain plug-ins do work with the DAW, such as Superior Drummer, there are certain features that you might be missing due to the limits of the actual implementation. I never read the manual, so I can't really comment on that. However, Apple's support is usually great, and they have a forum dedicated towards helping out users in need.
SUITABILITY/PERFORMANCE
Garageband is known for its stability. There are few programs out there that are as stable as this is. However, as I said above, it's a bit limiting. I'm a power user, so this is all in the perspective of someone who records as more of a profession rather than a hobby. I find the lack of options to be a bit limiting as to what I can do. While it works for just scribbling down ideas and making some basic tracks on the road, I find myself wanting my full DAW more than anything else.
OVERALL OPINION
Garageband is a great DAW for those who are just starting out, but keep in mind that it has its limitations as to what you can actually do. It's not meant for power users, and those who are used to professional DAWs might find it a bit lacking overall. However, if you're a casual musician who needs something basic to use, Garageband should suit you nicely. The best part about the software is that it's free, so you're more than welcome to use it to its fullest. If you can, however, I recommend trying to save up for Logic Express. You'll get so much more out of that DAW than any other DAW out there in terms of price, and it's extremely stable to boot.
SUITABILITY/PERFORMANCE
Garageband is known for its stability. There are few programs out there that are as stable as this is. However, as I said above, it's a bit limiting. I'm a power user, so this is all in the perspective of someone who records as more of a profession rather than a hobby. I find the lack of options to be a bit limiting as to what I can do. While it works for just scribbling down ideas and making some basic tracks on the road, I find myself wanting my full DAW more than anything else.
OVERALL OPINION
Garageband is a great DAW for those who are just starting out, but keep in mind that it has its limitations as to what you can actually do. It's not meant for power users, and those who are used to professional DAWs might find it a bit lacking overall. However, if you're a casual musician who needs something basic to use, Garageband should suit you nicely. The best part about the software is that it's free, so you're more than welcome to use it to its fullest. If you can, however, I recommend trying to save up for Logic Express. You'll get so much more out of that DAW than any other DAW out there in terms of price, and it's extremely stable to boot.