Ardour is an open-source workstation for recording, editing, mixing, and mastering audio and MIDI projects on Linux, macOS, and Windows. It supports any number of tracks and busses, with unlimited undo and redo. Signal connections can route one-to-many, many-to-one, or many-to-many. Supported plugin formats include AudioUnit, LV2, VST2/VST3, and LADSPA; plugins support sample-accurate automation and MIDI Learn. For MIDI synchronization, Ardour supports MIDI timecode, MIDI Machine Control, MIDI clock, and JACK transport sync. It can import one video, display a thumbnail timeline, synchronize audio, and export video. Users can search and import audio or MIDI from Freesound. The GNU GPL v2 license allows users to copy, share, and modify Ardour without paying. Subscriptions support development and provide unlimited updates while active. Monthly subscription options are 1.00 USD per month, 4.00 USD per month, 10.00 USD per month, and 50.00 USD per month. An annual subscription is 120.00 USD per year.
Who it is for
Ardour suits audio and MIDI creators who need multitrack recording and editing across Linux, macOS, or Windows. It also fits users who value open-source software and optional subscriptions for supporting development.
What is good
- Works on Linux, macOS, and Windows.
- Supports unlimited tracks and busses.
- Unlimited undo and redo are available.
- Supports AudioUnit, LV2, VST2/VST3, and LADSPA plugins.
- Users may copy, share, and modify it without payment.
What to know first
- Video import is limited to one video.
- Monthly subscriptions range from 1.00 USD per month to 50.00 USD per month.
- Annual subscription costs 120.00 USD per year.
Verdict
Ardour covers audio and MIDI production, plugin automation, routing, and limited video synchronization in an open-source package. Users can work without paying, or choose a subscription to support development and receive updates while subscribed.
Ardour plans and pricing
All plansCompared on audio editing software
- Free plan
- Yes
- Paid from
- $1/mo
- Supported platforms
- Linux, macOS, Windows
- Multitrack editing
- Yes
- MIDI sequencing
- Yes
- Third-party plugins
- Yes
- Video synchronization
- Yes
