Universal Audio announced its analogue-inspired Luna digital audio workstation is now finally available for Windows as a free beta.
Luna was previously only available for macOS users with Universal Audio Apollo interfaces, but now the developer has made it available for all Windows and Mac users.
As development progresses and Luna becomes compatible with both major operating systems, there is undoubtedly a shift among the best free DAW applications.
The developer calls Luna a next-generation DAW, the “only recording software with the sound of classic studio equipment like analog console summing and tape machine emulations, built right in.”
You can get your free copy of Luna by submitting your email address on the product page.
To get the Luna Windows beta up and running, you’ll also need to download the free UA Connect software.
Luna is available in two tiers: the free tier and the Luna Pro bundle.
Luna Pro is currently available at $199, down from a list price of $399, and includes an array of Universal Audio plugins.
Luna sessions are cross-compatible between macOS and Windows users; however, there is currently limited functionality.
UAD-2 and UADx plugins, as well as Luna extensions, are fully cross-compatible.
However, the macOS version of Luna runs the AU format, while the Windows version runs VST3.
This means the settings on third-party AU plugins from macOS sessions won’t load up for Windows users.
Universal Audio said they are planning to bring VST3 to the macOS version of Luna, so when that update goes live, Luna will become 100% cross-compatible between macOS and Windows for third-party VST3 plugins.
However, the developer didn’t state the timeline for the macOS VST3 update.
Luna is designed from the ground up to deliver a vintage analog sound.
Universal Audio states it allows you to “Experience a mix as if you were seated at a vintage console, complete with analog tape machines, built-in summing, and flexible mixing options.”
Luna is designed to be simple to operate for beginners, with the mixing being driven by tags and presets.
There are also hours of tutorials available, including artist sessions from Luis Cato, Atticus Ross, Cold War Kids, Cass McCombs, and more.
Ease of collaboration is another big focus with Luna, with a one-button session export to speed up collaborations.
A whole lot is going on under the hood with Luna, so check out the product page for the full rundown.
Download: Luna (FREE -Windows Beta now available / Pro Bundle $199)
More:
- Best Free DAW (Digital Audio Workstation)
- Universal Audio’s LUNA Digital Audio Workstation Is Now FREE (macOS)
Last Updated on May 23, 2024 by Tomislav Zlatic.
