ArdourLinux
vs
Cakewalk SONARWindows
Ardour as a Linux alternative to Cakewalk SONAR
Updated
Our verdict
Ardour can replace Cakewalk SONAR for most users who need a full‑featured DAW on Linux. It offers multitrack audio and MIDI recording, non‑destructive editing, a flexible routing matrix, and a built‑in mixing console with per‑channel effects. Users who rely heavily on VST‑3, AU, or proprietary Windows‑only plugins will need a bridge or alternative. For musicians, audio engineers, and composers who prefer open source and cross‑platform workflows, Ardour is a solid choice.
- License
- GPL-2.0+
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 9.8.0 (August 19, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Multitrack audio and MIDI recording
- Non‑destructive editing with regions and playlists
- Flexible routing and bussing
- Built‑in mixing console with per‑channel plugins
- Support for VST2 and LV2 plugins via bridge
What is different
- No native VST‑3 support (requires bridge)
- No AU plugin support
- No direct support for Cakewalk project files
- No Windows‑only plug‑in compatibility
- No integrated mastering suite like SONAR’s Mastering Tools
Opening your Cakewalk SONAR files
Ardour does not natively open Cakewalk SONAR project files (.sonar). Users must export their SONAR sessions to a neutral format such as WAV or AIFF for audio tracks and MIDI files for MIDI tracks, then import those into Ardour. Exporting from Ardour to SONAR is also not supported; a similar export‑then‑import workflow is required.
Switching from Cakewalk SONAR to Ardour, step by step
- Export all audio tracks from SONAR to WAV/AIFF using the built‑in export function.
- Export all MIDI tracks to standard MIDI files (SMF).
- Create a new Ardour project and import the WAV/AIFF files into separate tracks.
- Import the MIDI files into matching tracks and set up routing and plugins as needed.
- Re‑create any automation or bus routing manually within Ardour.
Key features of Ardour
- Multi-track audio and MIDI recording
- Non-destructive editing with regions and playlists
- Flexible routing and bussing with up to 192 tracks
- Support for VST2, LV2, and ReaPlugs via bridge
- Comprehensive mixing console with per-channel plugins
- Time-stretching and pitch correction tools
- Integrated piano roll and MIDI editor
- Export to multiple formats including WAV, FLAC, and MP3
How to install Ardour on Linux
flatpak install flathub org.ardour.Ardoursudo apt install ardoursudo apt install ardoursudo dnf install ardour9sudo pacman -S ardoursudo zypper install ardourFrequently asked questions
Does Ardour support VST‑3 plugins?
Not natively; you can use a VST‑3 bridge such as Carla or LV2‑VST bridge to load VST‑3 plugins.
Can I use AU plugins on Linux with Ardour?
No, AU plugins are macOS‑specific. Use VST2, LV2, or ReaPlugs via the bridge instead.
Is Ardour suitable for live performance?
Yes, Ardour supports low‑latency audio and can be used for live recording or performance, but it may require careful buffer size tuning and a dedicated audio interface.