Bundles of free fun

Last time we looked at freeware, we suggested a bunch of different bundles for different uses, so here's a recap, plus some you can download in one go

As we’ve already suggested, just blindly downloading huge numbers of freeware applications is not the best strategy when it comes to using it. That’s why we’ve put together our all-new Best Ofs, featuring half a dozen of the best freeware titles by category.

However, there is another way to choose. Last time we tackled freeware, we approached it from a differfent angle: decide what you are going to use your freeware for, and then choose your downloads accordingly. A less scatter-gun approach should give you more relevant results.

Targeted bundles 

Here’s a quick recap. We’ll start with one of the most common dance genres, EDM, and what we recommend you can get for free if you are such a producer. You could start with Ableton Live 11 Lite, if you have been lucky enough to get it free with a piece of hardware (or this very magazine). If not, Tracktion Waveform Free is a great alternative. Instrument wise, try Dexed for some classic FM sounds, Vital Audio Vital Basic for the wavetable synth sounds popular in this genre, and Futucraft Kairatune for a great range of sounds – especially basses. Beats can come by way of BeatMaker Retrox Drums.

For electronica, the line-up is similar but we’d suggest adding some experimental effects like Glitchmachines Frakture and Audiomodern Filterstep alongside instruments including VCV Rack for some modular mayhem.

Guitarists have a wealth of options, but our bundle suggestions are the ubiquitous Apple Garageband DAW, Mercuriall Metal Area MT-A distortion pedal, Acon Digital Reverb Solo reverb, IS Shreddage 3 Stratus Free rock guitar sim and Ample Sound Ample Guitar M Lite II acoustic. That’s everything guitar!