Music and Audio Production Resource Guide
If you are an aspiring music producer or want to record a podcast, check out our curated collection of free tools, open source software, and learning resources.
Online tools
Make music online using a web browser!
- Citizen DJ (remix music samples from the Library of Congress)
- Online Sequencer (easy-to-use online sequencer)
- Collection of online synthesizers (some support MIDI keyboard input)
- Soundbox (online music tracker)
- Soundtrap (music sequencing / collaboration. note: account required)
- AudioTool (collaborative music tools & community. note:account required)
- Flat.io (online music notation software. note: account required)
Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs)
Recording studio multitracking software. Great for recording and editing podcasts.
Free DAW Tools & Plugins
- Valhalla free/low-cost plugins (excellent reverb and delay plugins!)
- iZotope free plugins (vinyl, stereo width, vocal doubler)
- TDR Nova (dynamic equalizer plugin)
- TDR Kotelnikov (mastering compressor)
- Blackhole (handy tool for configuring loopback recording)
- TwinySam Free Plugin List
Music Sequencers/Trackers
Modular synthesis
- VCV Rack (powerful modular synth / eurorack simulator)
Music Notation software
Experimental Music Tools
- Pure Data (patcher style visual programming language)
- IanniX (a graphical open-source sequencer for digital art)
- SPEAR (sinusoidal analysis/resynthesis)
- ChucK (real-time music programming language)
- Supercollider (music programming language)
Learning resources
- Ableton Learning Synths Interactive Tutorial
- Open Music Theory
- Basics of VCV Rack (Virtual Modular Synthesis)
- Podcast Tools & Techniques
Free audio/music libraries and sample packs
- Freesound (community contributed sound fx)
- University of Iowa music instrument samples (high quality recordings of classical orchestra instruments)
- Free Music Archive
- Looperman
- Goldbaby free sample packs
- Polyphone Soundfonts (sf2 files)