Autore: DJ TechTools

Ableton Live has long been the the major player in DAWs that allow for use both production and live contexts, but this morning Berlin-based Bitwig has announced their premiere software that aims to directly compete at Ableton as a solution for performance, studio work, and DJing – Bitwig Studio. After the jump, we’ve got the details on what’s different, and why some fresh competition can only be a good thing. 

Features That Make Bitwig Studio Stand Out


As with any new software launch, there are tons of features to note, but we got excited by the following features that Ableton users have been clamoring for at least the last two major releases of Live.

  • 64-bit compatible
  • Native Linux support
  • Dual monitor support
  • Split view between Arrangement and Session views
  • A resizable clip matrix
  • Overlaid automation on clips
  • Automation on a per-note basis in the piano roll

Bitwig Team and What Competition Means

According to the Ableton forums, four of the Bitwig Team are ex-Ableton employees, meaning that this release won’t be something to be taken lightly. We’re not entirely sure of the background here and what their current relationship is, but it’s certain to be an interesting story.

It’s also worth noting that Ableton prices don’t seem to be currently dictated by price accessibility or to compete with other industry alternatives, so a competitor like Bitwig Studio that’s bound to put a lower price on their software will only help breed innovation in the Ableton camp. That being said, everyone’s expecting something big from Ableton at NAMM – stay tuned next week as our coverage goes into full swing starting Wednesday!

For more information on Bitwig Studio, including a full feature list and a beta signup, visit their website here!

Excited about a bit of  DAW competition, or vastly underwhelmed? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below