Tracktion’s DAW “Waveform Free” has been updated to version 14.1 and is available as a free download.
This article covers the download details, an overview of Waveform Free, and how it differs from the paid Pro version.
What Is Tracktion Waveform Free?
Waveform Free is a full-featured free DAW for Mac, Windows and Linux. It supports VST, VST3 and AU plugins.
Version 14 introduced redesigned bundled effects, a new browser with tag and smart list support, and a rewritten audio engine. Version 14.1 adds Tracktion’s synth “Attracktive” for free as a built-in instrument.
Free vs. Pro: What’s the Difference?
In short:
- Free: includes the basics such as recording, mixing with plugins and exporting.
- Pro: adds production features such as the Clip Launcher, chord track and stem separation, plus more effects and instruments and bundled software such as Melodyne Essential.
| Feature | Free | Pro (paid) |
|---|---|---|
| Audio effects | 14 | 38 |
| MIDI effects | 8 | 10 |
| Built-in instruments | 4 | 10 |
| Utility plugins | 11 | 11 |
| Recording (retrospective record, punch recording, loop/take recording, comping) | Yes | Yes |
| Pattern generator, step clips, MPE | Yes | Yes |
| Plugin rack, plugin automation | Yes | Yes |
| Time stretch (Elastique), track freeze, bounce | Yes | Yes |
| Video playback | Yes | Yes |
| Export (Render screen) | Yes | Yes |
| Stem export (Advanced mode in the Render screen) | No | Yes |
| Clip Launcher | No | Yes |
| Chord track, Arranger track | No | Yes |
| Stem separation | No | Yes |
| Macros, modifiers | No | Yes |
| Clip automation | No | Yes |
| Multichannel (surround) | No | Yes |
| Multiple video clips, video export | No | Yes |
| Melodyne Essential, Tonalic Essential, Auto-Tune Access | No | Yes |
| Email support | No | Yes |
Rows for features available only in the Pro version are highlighted in yellow on the original page.
Features missing from the free version can also be added individually through paid expansion packs (from $30).
How to Download and Install Waveform Free
Click “Download” on the official page, then sign up on the account creation page with your name (first name / last name), email address and password. Next, install and launch Tracktion’s Download Manager and sign in to install the software.
System Requirements
- macOS 13 or later (Intel / Apple Silicon)
- Windows 10, 11 (64-bit)
- Linux (tested on Ubuntu 24.04)
That’s the rundown on the free Waveform Free DAW.