Linux has long been popular among developers and IT professionals, but many creative types are still locked into using Mac or Windows platforms for their audio production needs. However, there are several excellent Linux distributions tailored specifically for music making, audio engineering, and sound design.
In this guide, we‘ll explore the 5 best Linux distros for music production and review their key features. Whether you‘re a bedroom music producer or professional sound engineer, there‘s likely a Linux OS here to meet your needs.
1. Ubuntu Studio – The Most Popular Studio Distribution
Ubuntu Studio is arguably the most well-known and widely-used Linux distro for creative applications like music production. As the name suggests, it‘s based on Ubuntu and optimized for audio, video, and graphics requirements with a great selection of included creative software.
Some highlights of Ubuntu Studio:
- Ships with the low-latency Linux kernel for pro-audio needs
- Supports Wacom tablets out of the box for MIDI control
- Includes audio plugins like Calf Studio and guitar pedal sims
- Popular DAWs like Ardour, Reaper, and Bitwig have Ubuntu support
- Integrates well with JACK Audio for low-latency performance
- Automatic CPU frequency scaling disabled for consistent timing
- Hundreds of free creative apps available in the repos like Blender, GIMP, Audacity etc
In terms of look and feel, Ubuntu Studio utilizes the highly customizable Xfce desktop which is fast and lightweight. For new Linux converts, Ubuntu Studio is an excellent gateway into production-ready studio distros.
2. AV Linux – Jack of All Trades DAW Platform
AV Linux takes a kitchen sink approach by bundling a huge array of creative applications ranging from DAWs and synth workstations to notation tools, Csound, Pure Data, and more. It‘s built on top of a solid Debian core and uses the flexible MX Tools administrative suite.
Some highlights of AV Linux:
- Ships with multiple DAW options like Bitwig, Ardour, Tracks, and Qtractor
- Web-based remote mixer makes working with complex sessions easier
- Supports virtual instruments like ZynAddSubFX and Yoshimi in Carla or Claudia racks
- Visualizers like Calf Oscilloscope built-in for audio analysis
- Utilizes PipeWire for advanced routing, policy handling, etc.
- Integrates video production tools like Kdenlive, Blender, and OBS Studio
- Uses a custom kernel optimized for low audio latency
For those seeking a high degree of flexibility, customization options, and abundant creative features – AV Linux is a top choice that leaves little to be desired. It may have a learning curve for new users, but audio geeks will feel right at home with this distro.
3. KXStudio – Specialized for Pro Audio Requirements
Whereas AV Linux tries to provide an extensive range of media software, KXStudio zeroes in on delivering a pure production environment tailored specifically for pro audio engineers, electronic musicians, and podcast producers. It‘s built on Ubuntu minimal and utilizes the KDE Plasma desktop.
Standout features of KXStudio include:
- Supports low-latency kernel with further optimizations possible during install
- Specialized Cadence tool manages JACK connections, starting/stopping daemons, etc.
- Bundles an array of synthesis and effect plugins like Calf, Dexed, and Dragonfly Reverb
- Developer-focused allowing custom builds with various audio plugin frameworks
- Active community support tailored to working musicians and audio engineers
For those who want a no-frills production workstation honed for studio tracking, mixing, mastering, synthesis, and sound design – KXStudio is a superb choice with options to customize based on your workflow. It may be overkill for casual hobbyists but fits advanced creator‘s needs perfectly.
4. Fedora Jam – For Open-Source Audio Fans
The Fedora project is known for delivering a free, open-source Linux distro that stays committed to upstream components without heavy modification. In that same spirit, Fedora Jam serves as their media-focused spin targeted at musicians wishing to use entirely open platforms and tools.
Some interesting aspects of Fedora Jam:
- Ships audio tools like Ardour, Qtractor, Rosegarden, Audacity, and Guitarix
- Emphasis on community audio packaging group called "Planet CCRMA"
- Utilizes JACK for pro audio handling without ffado or DSD support
- Aims to work well with PipeWire for improved audio routing
- Supports Wacom tablets plus notation tools like MuseScore
- Backed by RPM Fusion repo of common media codecs
- Can install KXStudio repo for more production packages
For audio artists and engineers who care deeply about software freedom or open standards, Fedora Jam tries hard to fit that need (though some exceptions exist). It collaborates closely with research groups pushing innovation in open audio tech too.
5. AV Linux MX Edition – User-Friendly Musician‘s OS
Earlier we covered the extremely versatile AV Linux distribution which bundles just about every production tool under the sun. However, some users find it overly complex. Enter AV Linux MX Edition – delivering a more streamlined, user-friendly variant fine-tuned for amateur musicians.
Some handy aspects of AV Linux MX Edition:
- Simplified graphical interface with MX Tools for system management
- Ships popular DAWs like Bitwig, Ardour, and Qtractor
- Bundles instrument plugins like Helm Synth, ClassicOrgans, Sinnah VST and more
- Includes audio repairing utilities for cleaning up bad recordings
- Automatic setup walks you through configuring devices, partitions etc.
- Backed by helpful user forums tailored to novice musicians
For those seeking to dip their toes into Linux music production or migrate away from paid options, AV Linux MX Edition makes the transition relatively easy and frustration-free. It may lack deeper customization or exotic tools but gets the job done.
Honorable Mentions
A few other Linux distributions worth checking out for music and audio production include:
- Reaper Linux – Optimized for the Reaper DAW and bundled plugins
- VCV Rack – Open-source Eurorack simulator for modular synthesis
- PureOS – Entirely open-source audio/video production suite by Pure Music
- MuSE – DAW focused on MIDI/audio score writing
Which Distro is Right For You?
Choosing the best Linux distribution involves weighing your specific needs and intended uses. Here‘s a quick recap:
- Ubuntu Studio – Excellent gateway for migrating into Linux music production
- AV Linux – Kitchen sink approach with seemingly endless tools
- KXStudio – Tailored purely for demanding audio engineers
- Fedora Jam – Aligns with open platforms and creative independence
- AVLinux MX Edition – Simplified transition for amateur musicians
The good news is that most Linux desktop environments allow you to install whatever packages you want with some build dependencies aside. Don‘t be afraid to explore what works best for your studio purposes – and have fun creating!