Is There a Garageband For Windows?Garageband is a simple entry-level music composition and editing software that is made and distributed exclusively through Apple. It is like iMovie, exposing new users to the idea of composing and putting together music, movie tracks, and or podcasts using a variety of tools and techniques. Garageband
Some of the features of Garageband include full midi support, a variety of virtual instruments, multi-track recording, midi support, loops, built in sound effects and professionally recorded loops. It even has virtual guitar amps built in that would allow a guitarist to access many amp effects and sounds that they might not ordinarily have access to. Garageband files can be directly read by Logic Express, so if the user wants to update their software to the next level, they can access and edit all their previously recorded Garageband projects.
Why does Apple not make a Garageband for Windows? Let's go through some potential reasons. First, as part of their iLife suite, Garageband offers a lot of value and keeps some exclusivity for Apple's own computers and OS. If it was offered universally like Microsoft Office, Apple might lose some market share with their computers. That is how good the software in the iLife suite are. Second, while marketing and selling Garageband for Windows may net Apple a lot of revenue, by keeping Garageband as a Mac exclusive, they solidify Apple computers as being the premiere computers not only for professional audio and visual editing, but also as a good launching platform for beginners that are considering sound and audio. Third, Garageband is part of the Logic system and is basically a module of Logic Express. Logic is not offered on Windows and so it makes sense that Garageband would not be either. Last, there are many other programs that are available for Windows computers in the audio editing world, so separating their market competition is a smart financial move for Apple. GarageBand for PC
So since Garageband for Windows is not offered, what are some other programs that may fill a similar function at a similar price? Garageband, when bought with the iLife bundle, costs under $100, which is arguable very affordable.
Audacity is one program that can be used on Mac, Windows, or Linux operating systems. It is completely free and can record and do many effects like Garageband. It cannot, however, provide you with multi-track recording, support of midi, and many other advanced music editing features. It maybe be a good place to start, because if it works for you, you will definitely save some money.
FL Studio comes in a variety of iterations that range from under $100 to over $500. The cheaper versions offer most of the same features as Garageband and give you the opportunity to update to more professional versions later if needed. FL Studio is Windows only and provides a very complete virtual studio at good pricing. GarageBand for Windows
Another good solution to the Garageband for Windows dilemma is Mixcraft Acoustica. It is a major contender and seems to be very similar to Garageband, offering full midi support, multi-track recording, professionally recorded loops, and many effects. At under $100 and with sister applications that add other features, Mixcraft Acoustica is a great way to go as well. Mixcraft Acoustica is Windows only.