Waveform plays well with most VSTs, so add away! That’s probably the way it was meant to be used anyway. As a long-time user of the DAW, that’s always a nice thing to see. These are a little “basic” so far as effects are concerned, but Tracktion has been continually updating these with user-friendly graphical interfaces that make them more usable. Tracktion or Waveform has always had some built-in effects (like EQ, reverb, delay, and so on). That said, Waveform is somewhat customizable (if you upgrade to PRO, you can do more customization). How the controls are positioned are part of the workflow, so that’s going to come down to preference. It’s dark themed, which can make it a little easier on the eyes during long studio sessions. Waveform’s graphical user interface is attractive if simple.

It feels like software that’s been developed to be software. Because Waveform doesn’t feel like a piece of software trying to emulate hardware. If the workflow isn’t for you, that’s okay, there are other more traditional DAWs on this list you will likely find a lot of utility in. It makes it easy for me to get started, get going, and take my project idea from start to finish quickly. What I like most about the DAW, and what some might find odd, is the workflow.

Over the years, I’ve recorded acoustic duos, reggae bands, rock bands, podcasts, audiobooks, and other projects using Waveform.

And while some might try to tell you that it’s best for electronic music and EDM (and it is good for that), you can honestly do anything with it. What this means is that Waveform has had plenty of time to mature. At the time, Tracktion software was owned by Mackie. Waveform was originally Tracktion, and Tracktion was a DAW all its own before it became a developer.

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