LMMS is a software that turns your computer into a digital workstation dedicated to music composition. So far there is nothing particularly new, think about it.
In fact LMMS has features that make it very similar to other commercial products such as FL Studio, Cubase, Garage Band, Logis Studio or Beat Machine; just to mention the most renowned.
However LMMS, acronym for Linux MultiMedia Studio, offers some important new feature: it is a multi tool free and open source. Why LMMS is a multi tool? Because being a real Digital Audio Workstation (DAW), LMMS has the functionality of a synthesizer, is simultaneously multi-track, it has the built-in sequencer, has an editor dedicated to the rhythmic patterns and bass lines, allows you to manage VST and interfaces it with all Midi controllers.
A general picture of the DAW LMMS.
LMMS is a virtual musical instrument but absolutely complete, and also complex, it is difficult even to list all the features that interest him. Among the major I want to remember:
– The Piano Roll, for writing melodies and rhythms;
– Compatibility with audio standards like: Midi, VST(i), Ladspa, Gus Patches, SoundFont2
– Import Midi files;
– Import project files of other software like FL Studio and Hydrogen;
– Song editor, dedicated to bass line and rhythmic;
– A 64 channels mixer;
– Ability to interface with the virtual synthesizer ZynAddSubFX;
– Many external instruments and plug-in;
LMMS interfaced with the virtual synthesizer ZynAddSubFX.
It does not end here. In July 2014, has been released version 1.0.3. Look anything but indifferent, as it says that LMMS is a project still alive, which continues to be improved and perfected.
The installation package is supplied with a library of several sound samples, categorized in folders easily navigated by the side menu. The DAW LMMS allows you to manage files in Wav, Aiff, Au, Flac and Rwa Pcm. As for compressed formats we have Ogg, Mp3, Spex, Voc and Ds.
On the left you can see the side menu that lets you browse the library of sounds.
Do not forget that even LMMS, like other commercial DAW, integrates the potential of automation, giving you the opportunity to spice up your work computer while leaving the management with certain processes.
The download of LMMS is available for Windows operating systems, from XP to 8, which you can download here (32-bit) or here (64.bit). If you are a Linux user by clicking here you will find the version for Ubuntu, although I recommend you also check out the other general availability by clicking on the download page. If you are Mac users, the only alternative for now is to wait for the release of a version for your operating system.
There are, for those who want to approach the software with the necessary knowledge, reference manuals that explain the main features and operation of this environment. If you’re interested click this link or browse is now:
On YT you can also find many tutorials, I took a look at this video that follows and that is just the first of a series published on this channel.
Experiences, critical considerations? Please, comment!