It's 2024 - what are the best Non-Linear DAWs ?

[koalaboy]

I know that Live/Bitwig can technically be non-linear with follow actions but more interested in DAWs that may have an overall timeline but allow sequencers and other timelines (with different tempos etc.) be triggered independently.

I've experimented with Bespoke, and am trying again with Loomer Architect, but I'm curious what else I'm missing out on. Windows, if it matters.

I did try a couple more back in the day, but I don't remember the names now.

Edit: I have VoltageModular and VCV(Rack) as well.

[cron]

Haven't tried this one personally yet, but Blockhead is probably the most interesting audio sequencer I've seen recently. Lots of interesting ideas in there like multiple simultaneous tempo guides and timelines within timelines within timelines...

[pdxindy]

I know that Live/Bitwig can technically be non-linear with follow actions but more interested in DAWs that may have an overall timeline but allow sequencers and other timelines (with different tempos etc.) be triggered independently.

I recall that MuLab can do that...

[koalaboy]

I recall that MuLab can do that...

I'm still learning mulab, so will definitely investigate.

[Yorrrrrr]

Live’s session view is still king.

[koalaboy]

Live’s session view is still king.

If you enjoy that display/workflow, maybe. For me, it still feels linear and if using follow actions, it's not clear from the main view what the flow may be. I sometimes use it, but each time I find myself not finding it great for the way my head works, and going back to arranger view.

[pdxindy]

I recall that MuLab can do that...

I'm still learning mulab, so will definitely investigate.

I remember seeing a video where they had multiple timelines. But I don't use MuLab so I didn't pay much attention to the details.

[koalaboy]

I remember seeing a video where they had multiple timelines. But I don't use MuLab so I didn't pay much attention to the details.

You can nest composers (timelines - the 'lab' rather than plugin) in composers... mulabception... so it's very likely there's a way to one trigger the next, and they are set to different bpm etc.

It's definitely something I'll play with later.

[xbitz]

Out of curiosity, I created a video about the different clip-triggering modes (plugin version in Cubase)

You can have as many composer instances as you like (with different timeline etc.). Just make sure to route the triggering notes to them appropriately

[aMUSEd]

Usine is about as non linear as they come

https://www.brainmodular.com/usine.php

[koalaboy]

Usine is about as non linear as they come

https://www.brainmodular.com/usine.php

I actually have a license to Hollyhock (or did a few years back) but what they call "Intuitive interface" is not something I agree with. Maybe I should have another look though, if I can find my login details.

[koalaboy]

Out of curiosity, I created a video about the different clip-triggering modes (plugin version in Cubase)
...

That's awesome - thanks. Something to watch later

[VOODOO U]

I have a dream that one day Renoise will allow the option for each track to run independent from one another.

Out of curiosity, I created a video about the different clip-triggering modes (plugin version in Cubase)

You can have as many composer instances as you like (with different timeline etc.). Just make sure to route the triggering notes to them appropriately

My god that looks cluttered (not your fault of course, good job on the demonstration although I got no sound coming from the vid).
I'm convinced the minds of developers are wired nuch differently than average joe end users.
Mulab's layout is too sloppy. And that's coming from someone who uses Reaper! It doesn't get more sloppy than Reaper - so I thought.

I actually have a license to Hollyhock (or did a few years back) but what they call "Intuitive interface" is not something I agree with. Maybe I should have another look though, if I can find my login details.

Case in point. Agreed. Hollyhock has the potential it just doesn't look or feel right as far as having a smooth workflow.

Ill say the same for Architect. These programs suffer from geekery as far as GUI layouts and workflow.
Developers need to spend time DJing so they can "get it".
They're too stuck in the mindset of a developer and thus what we get is a ten step process with wiring and multi windows just to press "play".

[koalaboy]

They're too stuck in the mindset of a developer and thus what we get is a ten step process with wiring and multi windows just to press "play".

I don't think it's a developer mindset. I'm a developer but I find the same issues. I think it's more that there are just many different ways to 'think' about creation of anything.

I agree on the Renoise idea as well !

[VOODOO U]

They're too stuck in the mindset of a developer and thus what we get is a ten step process with wiring and multi windows just to press "play".

I don't think it's a developer mindset. I'm a developer but I find the same issues.

Then it's got to be weed overdose. Kind of like when a guitarist smokes too much weed and they sit in front of the cab playing the same chord over and over thinking "what a great song!"
You've got developers who toke weed through a chimney and the next thing you have is a DAW that looks like a ball of yarn. Yeah real great workflow there.
Ableton may look like shit but they got that "live" workflow down really well.
Same with iOS apps. Ok yea most are toys but the workflow is what they have going for them.