The Top 6 Software For Making EDM

Sometimes with such a range of software- free and paid, you have to wonder what are the best software for making EDM?

Well it depends. You will read online various different opinions, different star rating. But here's the main point. No one should really say: "Here!, This is the best!"

What we have found on our travels is that the best software is one that:

fits your budget
is not overly complication
doesn't beat up your computer
allows you to manipulate and add sounds
is supportive with the publisher
is supported by a good community
feels and looks right

For us we have tried them all and we liked some and hated the others. Not because they were bad, no, they were really powerful. Its just that our style just didnt fit well with that software. It demanded a lot from u and assumed a lot.

So out main answer is that:

Try them all first. Find the demos (they all have demos) and then go for it. You need to invest time in the software to get the most out of it. So you need to find one that you like. And remember, check out which ones you like- not necessarily what some artist uses. You will also find that artists will sometimes use 2 tools. One does one job really well and another does another job really well.

Best software for making EDM: Ableton Live Lite

Ableton has been around for ages and is one of the first tools to incorporate time stretch. You throw in sound and regardless of the tempo Ableton plays it the same as the song you are playing.

Ableton Live Lite is highly effective for both beginners and professionals due to its intuitive interface and powerful features designed for live performances and studio production. The software's session view allows for non-linear music creation, making it easy to experiment with loops and ideas quickly.

Who uses Ableton Live Lite? Skrillex and Deadmau5 have praised Ableton Live for its versatility and robust live performance capabilities, using it extensively in both their studio and stage setups.

Best software for making EDM: FL Studio

Another time tested software tool which used to be called Fruity Loops.

FL Studio is renowned for its user-friendly, pattern-based workflow, making it an excellent choice for beginners who want to create complex arrangements with ease. Its vast library of built-in instruments and effects allows users to start making music right away without needing additional plugins.

Who uses FL Studio? Martin Garrix and Avicii (RIP) have been known to use FL Studio

Best software for making EDM: Logic Pro X

You may see a pattern here. Another software that has been around for ages. Logic and its software are very powerful. Logic was only Mac, Logic Pro X is used on Windows. Its a professional-grade Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) that scales well for beginners and seasoned producers alike. Its comprehensive suite of tools, including advanced MIDI editing, an extensive sound library, and powerful mixing capabilities, make it suitable for all stages of music production.

Who uses Logic? Calvin Harris and Kygo are among the many top-tier producers who use Logic

Best software for making EDM: Garageband

Its just for Mac users (and a scaled down version can be used on the iPhone/ iDevices- there are multiple videos on showing quick music making). GarageBand offers a streamlined and accessible entry point into music production. It comes pre-installed on Mac computers, providing a wide range of virtual instruments, loops, and recording features, making it perfect for beginners.

Who uses Garageband? While many professional artists have started with GarageBand, T-Pain has famously used it to produce music

Best software for making EDM: Reaper

Reaper is highly effective due to its affordability, flexibility, and extensive customization options. While it may require some initial setup, its low cost and powerful features make it an excellent long-term choice for both beginners and experienced producers.

Who uses Reaper? Deadmau5, Tim Henson, Jacob Collier use or have used Reaper. It has a strong following among independent producers and engineers who appreciate its efficiency and powerful scripting capabilities.

Best software for making EDM Tracker

Trackers are different but powerful music making software that a lot of producers use. They are more precise so they allow the creation of complex patterns and beats. They offer a wide range of free add ons and are very low cost, free in some cases. For us we use trackers because you can be precise- and they can be very forgiving to the new person who has very little musical knowledge.

You can check out how trackers are used here.

For more music making articles, check out here.