ArdourLinux
vs
Studio OneWindows
Ardour as a Linux alternative to Studio One
Updated
Our verdict
Ardour is a strong, professional-grade replacement for Studio One if you prioritize open-source tools and deep audio editing. It handles multi-track recording, complex routing, and MIDI sequencing effectively. However, it lacks Studio One's integrated mastering suite and video synchronization features. You will need external plugins for loudness metering and separate software for video work. It is ideal for engineers and musicians who value flexibility and do not rely on proprietary VST3 or AU plugins, or who are comfortable using LV2 and VST2 bridges.
- License
- GPL-2.0+
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 9.8.0 (August 19, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Multi-track audio and MIDI recording with non-destructive editing
- Comprehensive mixing console with flexible routing and bussing
- Support for third-party plugins including VST2 and LV2
- Integrated MIDI editor and piano roll for virtual instruments
What is different
- No native video synchronization capabilities
- Lacks built-in mastering tools and loudness meters
- Plugin support relies on VST2/LV2 bridges rather than native VST3/AU
- Open-source license (GPL-2.0+) versus proprietary commercial model
Opening your Studio One files
Ardour cannot open Studio One project files (.prj) directly. You must export your audio and MIDI data from Studio One first. Audio tracks should be exported as WAV or FLAC, and MIDI data as standard MIDI files. You will then need to manually import these files into a new Ardour session and rebuild your routing and plugin chains from scratch.
Switching from Studio One to Ardour, step by step
- Export all audio tracks from Studio One as high-quality WAV files.
- Export all MIDI data as standard MIDI files (.mid).
- Create a new Ardour session with matching sample rate and track count.
- Import the audio and MIDI files into the appropriate tracks.
- Rebuild your routing, sends, and insert effects using available plugins.
- Re-automate volume, pan, and plugin parameters as needed.
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 VST3 plugins?
Ardour primarily supports VST2 and LV2 plugins. While VST3 support is not native, you can use bridges like Carla or ReaPlugs to run VST3 plugins within Ardour.
Can I use Ardour for video scoring?
Ardour does not have native video synchronization. You will need to use external tools or a different DAW for precise video alignment, though you can manually sync using timecodes if you have the video file.
Is Ardour free to use?
Yes, Ardour is free and open-source under the GPL-2.0+ license. There is no cost to download, install, or use the software for personal or commercial projects.
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