
Updates, email/IM feeds, networking, etc)

If you are OK with the DAW monopolizing the sound card temporarily and don't need to connect and route audio between various software, then don't worry about it too much. You only really need Jack if you plan on multiplexing audio from various sound sources. Jackd is not required, as Ardour/Mixbus can grab hold of the sound card directly via ALSA. Not needed for printing VIs but IMO necessary for audio recording.
#Change shortcuts mixbus 32c install#
All you need to do is install the -lowlatency kernel if you require additional low latency performance/reliability. Not sure about Ardour, but Mixbus does a system check and configuration for you automatically on install. Not free, but based on Ardour is Mixbus by Harrison (standard or 32c). See also Switching from macOS: Creative Work. No plugins to speak of, but the sampler is super-flexible.

It's great for making chiptune and dance music. It takes a little time to learn, but there are lots of great tutorials available, and it's pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it. I personally really like MilkyTracker (free in the AppCenter). The installation process also helps optimize your OS.Īll of these apps support samples, plugins, and MIDI keyboards.
#Change shortcuts mixbus 32c pro#
Ardour: Free DAW that's supposed to be comparable to Pro Tools.Bitwig Studio: Commercial Digital Audio Worstation (DAW) that works on Linux.

The UI is pretty tiny on my FHD XPS 13, but would be totally fine on lower-DPI screens. There are several great music apps that work well on Linux:
