BEAST

At a glance

• Editor score
  6.4 / 10
• Pricing
  Free plan
• Best for
  Linux users exploring open-source audio and MIDI editing
• Free plan
  Yes
• Paid from
  Free
• Facts checked
  24 Sep 2026

• Where it wins

  • Combines multitrack editing with real-time sound synthesis
  • Includes MIDI sequencing, automation, and piano-roll song editing
  • Supports LADSPA plugins and imports and exports common audio formats

• Where it doesn't

  • Focused on composing and sequencing, not dedicated mixing workflows
  • Primarily targets Linux; the Windows port is seeking volunteers
  • Published site lists version 0.15.0 from November 2019

Our verdict on BEAST

BEAST is a free, open-source desktop music creation system from The Beast Project. It brings together multitrack editing, real-time synthesis, MIDI sequencing, and instrument tracks, making it relevant to Linux users who want a composing and editing environment rather than a hosted service. Its piano-roll song editing and MIDI automation give it a clear role for creating arrangements, while the Linux focus and solo-user fit suggest a more individual workflow than a team production suite.

The feature set spans audio and MIDI rather than centering on mix control alone. BEAST supports LADSPA plugins, FFT spectrograms, and audio rendering with multi-core support. It can import and export WAV, AIFF, FLAC, and MP3 files, which helps it fit into file-based workflows. These capabilities make it a reasonable option for people exploring open-source synthesis and sequencing; those seeking a product framed specifically around mixing should compare alternatives built for that focus.

Platform scope is the key practical constraint: the project primarily targets Linux, and the official site describes the Windows port as started but seeking volunteers. The official site lists BEAST 0.15.0, released in November 2019, so buyers should weigh that published release context when deciding whether it suits their needs. Support channels include email and community, but this is not a hosted service with a broader platform footprint. Choose BEAST if Linux-based composition, MIDI editing, synthesis, and open-source software are priorities; look elsewhere if Windows availability or a dedicated mixing workflow is essential.

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BEAST pricing

BEAST fact sheet

Alternatives to BEAST

• Fairlight LiveA capable free mixer for teams handling complex live, broadcast, and immersive audio.9.4
• Waves eMotion LV1A high-capacity live mixer for networked FOH, monitor, broadcast and recording workflows.9.2
• MMixPadA flexible freemium mixer for recording, editing, and producing audio across desktop and mobile.8.9

See all BEAST alternatives →

Featured on iTechGuides

BEAST is listed in our Audio Mixing Software directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

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Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update