SOUNDATION
FEATURES
Price: $4.99 – $29.99 monthly
Platform: PC/Mac Browser
Trial Offered: Yes
REVIEW
Check out our full, in-depth review of Soundation.

Soundation is outright the best pick for anyone that likes to avoid complex user interfaces. Instead, the service offers users a much simpler minimalist GUI that is easy to navigate and gentle on the eyes.

With Soundation, you have the option of creating an audio, instrument, or FX channel, which can be routed as a send or insert. These tracks are laid out in a classic linear configuration that experienced music makers and engineers should be familiar with. Unfortunately, there are no resizable elements to the studio interface, but no menus or devices get in your way while composing

Soundation’s sample library includes quick access to a generous supply of stock sounds, as well as an instant portal to the sound packs store where users can browse for one-shots or loops categorized by genre. There are beat packs in the store created by the Soundation team, and they also allow users to upload their sample packs for personal sale.

One notable feature of Soundation’s arrangement mode is that audio samples can be converted to midi with a simple drag-and-drop function. The most common use is selecting drum loops that can be applied to a drum machine and then further tweaked or rearranged.

There’s nothing much to write home about in the effects department on Soundation. The team has provided a handful of basic fundamental mixing tools like parametric EQ, compressors, reverbs, and other common effects. Every device comes with a very rudimentary set of controls, and most have only one or two dials, which may dissuade anyone that prefers to have maximum control over their mixes.

Soundation’s most powerful feature is its ability to work alongside FL Studio and Ableton Live in real-time. You can drag mid and audio samples back and forth between Soundation and offline DAW with a simple drag-and-drop command. Soundation also lets multiple users handle a session remotely at one time.

PROS
A clean, clear user interface creates a seamless workflow
High level of user customization
Direct link into Ableton or FL Studio
CONS
Not ideal for beginner producers or beatmakers
The limited scope of genres in the sound library.