LUNA is Universal Audio’s digital audio workstation for recording, producing, and mixing music on macOS and Windows. Its smart tools include tempo detection, voice control, instrument detection, stem separation, audio-to-MIDI, lyric transcription, and chord extraction, though some features are limited to LUNA Studio. LUNA Play identifies an instrument, sets levels, and suggests presets to help capture an idea. The software works with any audio interface, while Apollo and Volt interfaces have deeper integration. With Apollo, LUNA supports real-time tracking with UAD plug-ins, Unison preamp technology, and Accelerated Realtime Monitoring. It hosts VST3 and AU plug-ins and virtual instruments. LUNA Studio adds API, Studer, and Ampex console or tape extensions, hardware inserts, and six ARA plug-ins. LUNA Free includes unlimited tracks, smart features, UAD Explore Free plug-ins, and Oxide Tape. Listed paid options include LUNA Studio at 199.00 USD per month and UAD Spark Studio at 149.00 USD per year, billed annually. Installation and authorization require a free Universal Audio account, UA Connect, iLok License Manager, and a free iLok account.
Who it is for
LUNA suits musicians recording, producing, and mixing on macOS or Windows who want a DAW with smart tools and plug-in support. Apollo users can make use of its deeper interface integration.
What is good
- Works with any audio interface
- Supports VST3 and AU plug-ins and virtual instruments
- LUNA Free includes unlimited tracks
- Sessions can be opened on macOS and Windows
What to know first
- Some smart features are limited to LUNA Studio
- Installation requires several accounts and applications
- AU plug-ins will not load when a session opens on Windows
- LUNA Studio costs 199.00 USD per month
Verdict
LUNA provides a free entry point for recording and mixing, with additional production tools and extensions in paid options. Check the account and licensing requirements, and note the AU plug-in limitation for sessions opened on Windows.
LUNA plans and pricing
All plansCompared on audio editing software
- Free plan
- Yes
