Top 5 Best EDM Music Production Software: A Practical Guide for 2023

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 1 June 2023 13 min read

Electronic Dance Music (EDM) has taken the world by storm, and if you're looking to dive into this energetic genre, you'll need the right tools. In this practical guide, we'll explore the top 5 best music production software for EDM in 2023, comparing their features, pricing, and ease of use. So, let's jump into the world of beats, synths, and drops to find the perfect Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) for your EDM production journey.

Comparing the Best Music Production Software for EDM

Before we dive into the specifics of each DAW, it's important to understand what factors make them the best music production software for EDM. We'll break it down into three main aspects: key features, pricing and value, and ease of use and learning curve. By considering these factors, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed decision when choosing the right DAW for your EDM production needs.

Key Features to Look For

When it comes to EDM production, there are a few essential features that can make or break your workflow. Some of the most important ones include:

Sequencing and Arrangement: A flexible and intuitive arrangement view to create beats, melodies, and harmonies easily.
Audio and MIDI Editing: Robust editing tools for precise manipulation of audio and MIDI data.
Virtual Instruments and Effects: A wide variety of built-in synths, samplers, and effects to add unique character and flavor to your tracks.
Automation: The ability to automate parameters, such as volume, panning, and effects, to create dynamic and evolving soundscapes.
Export and Sharing: Easy export options and compatibility with various file formats for sharing your music with the world.

As you evaluate different DAWs, keep these features in mind to ensure they align with your EDM production goals.

Pricing and Value

DAW prices can range from free to several hundred dollars. While it's tempting to opt for the most expensive option, remember that price doesn't always equate to quality. It's essential to weigh the features, resources, and support offered by each DAW against its price tag. Additionally, consider if the software offers different editions or tiers, as these can provide a more budget-friendly entry point while still offering a solid feature set.

Ease of Use and Learning Curve

As a producer, you want to focus on making music, not wrestling with complex software. A DAW's ease of use and learning curve play a significant role in how quickly you can start creating EDM tracks. Look for intuitive interfaces, well-organized layouts, and helpful tooltips or guides. Keep in mind that some DAWs may have steeper learning curves but offer more advanced features, so it's essential to strike a balance between functionality and user-friendliness.

Now that we've covered the basics of what to look for in the best music production software for EDM, let's dive into our top 5 choices for 2023.

Ableton Live: A Popular Choice for EDM Producers

First up on our list of the best music production software for EDM is Ableton Live, a favorite among many EDM producers. With its versatile features and thriving community, it's no wonder that Live has become a go-to DAW for electronic music production. Let's dive into some of the unique aspects that make Ableton Live stand out in the EDM world.

Notable Features

Ableton Live offers several features that cater specifically to EDM production, making it one of the best music production software for EDM:

Session View: Live's unique non-linear Session View allows you to experiment with loops, samples, and ideas without being constrained by a traditional timeline, perfect for building up your EDM tracks.
Warping: The warping feature in Live lets you easily manipulate the timing and pitch of audio, giving you precise control over your samples, vocals, and beats—essential for creating those iconic EDM sounds.
Built-in Instruments and Effects: Live comes packed with a powerful suite of virtual instruments like Wavetable, Operator, and Simpler, as well as a wide range of effects for shaping your sound to perfection.
Max for Live: This integrated platform allows you to create custom devices and instruments, opening up limitless possibilities for your EDM tracks.

These features, combined with Live's intuitive interface and flexible workflow, make it a popular choice among EDM producers.

Thriving Community and Resources

One of the reasons Ableton Live is such a popular DAW for EDM production is its active community and extensive resources. Here's what you can expect:

Online Tutorials and Courses: There are countless tutorials, courses, and forums dedicated to using Ableton Live for EDM production, helping you learn the ins and outs of the software.
Sample Libraries and Packs: Live users have access to a vast array of sample libraries and sound packs specifically designed for EDM, giving you an ever-expanding sonic palette to work with.
User Groups and Events: Ableton hosts user groups and events worldwide, providing opportunities for you to connect with other EDM producers and learn from the pros.

Having access to such a wealth of resources and support can be invaluable as you develop your EDM production skills using Ableton Live.

EDM Artists Using Ableton Live

Many successful EDM artists use Ableton Live as their primary DAW, showcasing its potential as the best music production software for EDM. Some notable examples include:

Deadmau5: Known for his intricate sound design and catchy melodies, Deadmau5 has been using Live for years to create his iconic tracks.
Skrillex: As a pioneer of dubstep and brostep, Skrillex relies on Live's powerful features and flexibility to craft his unique, bass-heavy sound.
Flume: This Australian producer has made waves in the electronic music scene with his innovative use of sound design and sampling, all powered by Ableton Live.

These artists serve as inspiration for aspiring EDM producers looking to make their mark in the industry using Ableton Live as their go-to DAW.

As you can see, Ableton Live offers a compelling package of features, resources, and community support that make it one of the best music production software for EDM. Whether you're just starting your EDM production journey or looking to level up your skills, Live is definitely worth considering.

FL Studio: A Flexible Option for EDM Production

Another top contender for the best music production software for EDM is FL Studio. Known for its flexibility and user-friendly interface, this DAW has become a popular choice for many EDM producers. Let's explore some of the standout features and aspects that make FL Studio a strong option for creating electronic dance music.

Standout Features

FL Studio boasts several powerful features that cater to EDM production, making it a top choice for aspiring electronic music producers:

Piano Roll: FL Studio's Piano Roll is often praised for its user-friendly design and functionality, allowing you to easily compose melodies and create complex patterns for your EDM tracks.
Step Sequencer: This feature offers a simple and intuitive way to build drum patterns and rhythms, which is crucial for creating catchy, danceable beats in EDM.
Extensive Plugin Collection: FL Studio comes with a wide variety of built-in plugins, such as Sytrus, Harmor, and Gross Beat, that are perfect for designing unique sounds and effects for your EDM productions.
Resizable Interface: The customizable and scalable interface of FL Studio ensures a smooth workflow, allowing you to focus on what's most important—making awesome EDM tracks.

These features, combined with the software's affordability and frequent updates, make FL Studio a top choice for many EDM producers.

Workflow and Interface

One of the main reasons FL Studio is so popular among EDM producers is its intuitive and customizable workflow. With features like the Mixer, Browser, and Channel Rack, you can quickly access and organize your projects, making it easy to stay focused and inspired during your creative process. Additionally, the interface is designed to accommodate producers of all experience levels, ensuring that you can jump right in and start making music, regardless of your background.

FL Studio's adaptable workflow means that you can easily tailor the software to your specific needs and preferences, allowing you to create your best EDM tracks in an environment that feels comfortable and inspiring.

EDM Artists Using FL Studio

Several successful EDM artists use FL Studio as their primary DAW, showcasing the software's potential as one of the best music production software for EDM. Some notable examples include:

Martin Garrix: This Dutch DJ and producer, known for hits like "Animals" and "Scared to Be Lonely," has been a long-time user of FL Studio, demonstrating the software's potential for creating chart-topping EDM tracks.
Avicii: The late Swedish DJ and producer used FL Studio to create many of his iconic hits, such as "Levels" and "Wake Me Up," further proving the software's capabilities in the world of electronic dance music.
Porter Robinson: As an innovative artist who consistently pushes the boundaries of electronic music, Porter Robinson has relied on FL Studio's flexibility and powerful features to craft his unique sound.

These artists serve as inspiration for aspiring EDM producers who aim to create incredible music using FL Studio as their go-to DAW.

In conclusion, FL Studio offers a feature-rich and adaptable environment for EDM production, making it a strong contender for the best music production software for EDM. With its intuitive workflow, powerful plugin collection, and inspiring examples from successful artists, FL Studio is definitely worth considering as you pursue your EDM production journey.

Logic Pro: The Best Music Production Software for EDM on Mac

Now, let's talk about a DAW that's perfect for all the Mac users out there who are searching for the best music production software for EDM. Logic Pro has long been a favorite among Apple loyalists, and for good reason. This powerful software offers a wide range of features that cater specifically to EDM production. So, let's dive into what sets Logic Pro apart as the go-to choice for EDM on Mac.

Powerful Features

When it comes to creating electronic dance music, Logic Pro has you covered with an array of powerful features:

Alchemy Synthesizer: This versatile synth is a game-changer for EDM producers, offering a massive library of sounds and presets, as well as advanced sound design capabilities.
Drummer: Imagine having a virtual session drummer at your fingertips—this feature provides just that, giving you customizable drum patterns and grooves to make your tracks come alive.
Smart Controls: Easily tweak and fine-tune your instruments and effects with this intuitive feature, which allows you to map multiple parameters to a single control, streamlining your workflow.
Flex Time & Flex Pitch: These handy tools let you manipulate the timing and pitch of your recordings with ease, making it simple to correct mistakes or get creative with your sound.

These are just a few examples of the many features that make Logic Pro an ideal choice for EDM production on Mac.

Integration with Apple Ecosystem

One of the main advantages of Logic Pro is its seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem. This means that if you're using other Apple products, like GarageBand or MainStage, you'll find that transferring projects and sharing files is a breeze. Plus, you'll have access to the same high-quality plugins and instruments across all Apple music production software.

Not only does this integration save you time and effort, but it also helps create a cohesive production experience, allowing you to focus on making the best EDM tracks possible.

EDM Artists Using Logic Pro

Several big names in the EDM world trust Logic Pro as their go-to DAW for creating electronic dance music. Here are some noteworthy examples:

Hardwell: This world-renowned Dutch DJ and producer has been using Logic Pro for years to create his signature sound, which includes hits like "Spaceman" and "Apollo."
Alesso: As a Swedish DJ and record producer, Alesso relies on Logic Pro to create his popular tracks, such as "Heroes (We Could Be)" and "Under Control."
Armin van Buuren: This legendary trance producer has been using Logic Pro for decades, showcasing the software's longevity and adaptability in the ever-evolving world of electronic music.

These examples serve as a testament to the potential of Logic Pro as one of the best music production software for EDM, especially for Mac users.

In conclusion, Logic Pro offers a powerful, feature-rich environment that's perfect for EDM production on Mac. With its seamless integration with the Apple ecosystem, wide range of powerful features, and a proven track record among top EDM artists, Logic Pro is undeniably an excellent choice for aspiring electronic music producers looking for the best music production software for EDM.

Cubase: A Professional DAW for EDM Production

As we continue exploring the best music production software for EDM, it's time to turn our attention to Cubase—a professional DAW that has been a staple in the music production world for over 30 years. Let's dive into why Cubase is a solid choice for EDM production and the unique features it offers.

Advanced Features

When it comes to EDM production, Cubase offers an impressive array of features that cater to both beginners and seasoned professionals:

VST instruments and effects: Cubase comes with a wide variety of built-in virtual instruments and effects, including synths, samplers, and processors that are perfect for crafting your EDM sound.
Chord Track and Chord Pads: These innovative features make it easy to create complex chord progressions and harmonies, giving you more creative freedom in your compositions.
Audio Warp Quantize: This powerful tool allows you to quantize audio recordings in real-time, ensuring that your beats and rhythms are always on point.
Control Room: This unique feature offers a dedicated mixing environment, complete with customizable cue mixes, monitor setups, and talkback functionality—perfect for collaborating with other artists or working in a professional studio setting.

These advanced features, along with many others, make Cubase a top contender for the best music production software for EDM.

Workflow and Customization

One of Cubase's strengths is its highly customizable workflow, which allows you to tailor the software to your specific needs and preferences. This is particularly helpful for EDM producers who may require a unique setup for their creative process.

With features like custom macros, key commands, and a flexible interface, you can create a personalized production environment that helps you work more efficiently and stay in the creative flow. Whether you're just starting or you're an experienced producer, Cubase's adaptable workflow can help you produce your best EDM tracks.

EDM Artists Using Cubase

Many successful EDM artists have chosen Cubase as their go-to DAW for creating electronic dance music. Here are a few notable examples:

Zedd: This Grammy-winning artist is known for hits like "Clarity" and "Stay the Night," and has relied on Cubase for his music production needs throughout his career.
Junkie XL: As a film composer and electronic musician, Junkie XL has used Cubase to create memorable scores for movies like "Mad Max: Fury Road" and "Deadpool," as well as his own EDM tracks.
Paul van Dyk: This legendary trance DJ and producer has been using Cubase for decades, showcasing the software's versatility and staying power in the world of electronic music.

These artists' success with Cubase reinforces its status as one of the best music production software for EDM.

In conclusion, Cubase is a powerful and professional DAW that offers advanced features and a customizable workflow, making it a strong choice for EDM production. With its impressive track record among top EDM artists and a history of excellence in the music production world, Cubase is definitely worth considering as you search for the best music production software for EDM.

Studio One: A Rising Star in the EDM Production World

As you continue your search for the best music production software for EDM, it's important to keep an eye out for up-and-coming contenders like Studio One. With an intuitive and innovative approach to music production, Studio One has been making waves in the EDM community. Let's explore what sets this DAW apart and why it's worth considering in your quest for the perfect EDM production tool.

Innovative Features

Studio One offers a variety of unique features that can help you create amazing EDM tracks:

Drag-and-Drop: Studio One's interface is built around a simple drag-and-drop functionality, making it extremely easy to add and manipulate instruments, effects, and samples in your project.
Impact XT and Sample One XT: These two powerful instruments are designed for beat creation and sound design, giving you the tools to create compelling drum patterns and manipulate samples to your liking.
Arranger Track: This innovative feature allows you to quickly rearrange sections of your song, making it easy to experiment with different song structures and build dynamic EDM tracks.
Harmonic Editing: Studio One's harmonic editing feature can be a game-changer for creating rich harmonies and chord progressions in your EDM compositions, giving you a creative edge over the competition.

These features, along with many others, make Studio One a strong contender for the title of best music production software for EDM.

Streamlined Workflow

Studio One's workflow is designed to be efficient and user-friendly, helping you stay focused on your creativity. The single-window interface keeps everything in one place, making it easy to access your instruments, effects, and sound library without constantly switching between different panels.

Plus, the customizable toolbars and shortcuts let you set up your workspace exactly how you like it, so you can work faster and more intuitively. This streamlined workflow is perfect for EDM producers who want to stay in the zone and minimize distractions while creating their next masterpiece.

EDM Artists Using Studio One

Studio One is quickly gaining traction among EDM artists, thanks to its innovative features and efficient workflow. Here are a few examples of EDM producers who have adopted Studio One as their go-to DAW:

KJ Sawka: As both a solo artist and member of electronic music groups like Pendulum and Destroid, KJ Sawka has embraced Studio One for its powerful sound design capabilities and intuitive interface.
Rodg: This progressive house producer has been using Studio One to create his signature sound, praising its ease of use and the quality of its built-in instruments and effects.
Colin Cameron Allrich (Slighter): As an electronic musician and sound designer, Allrich has found Studio One to be the perfect DAW for his diverse range of projects, from film and TV scores to club-ready EDM tracks.

The growing list of EDM artists using Studio One is a testament to its potential as one of the best music production software for EDM.

In conclusion, Studio One is a rising star in the world of EDM production, offering innovative features and a streamlined workflow that cater to the unique needs of electronic dance music producers. As more and more EDM artists discover the power and flexibility of Studio One, it's definitely worth considering as you search for the best music production software for EDM. So, what are you waiting for? Give Studio One a try and see if it's the perfect fit for your EDM production needs!

If you're looking to enhance your EDM music production skills, don't miss the workshop 'Ableton Live Quick Tips To Make Your Music Better' by Tom Glendinning. This workshop will provide you with valuable tips and tricks to improve your music production process using Ableton Live, one of the top EDM music production software in 2023.