Free music software round-up: Week 2

MUTOOLS' MU.LAB Free gives you six tracks to record on.
MUTOOLS' MU.LAB Free gives you six tracks to record on.

MusicRadar is on a quest to keep track of all the latest developments on Planet Freeware, serving up a weekly report that lets you know what's new and what's been updated.

In this, our second seven-day wrap-up, we bring you a multitrack spectral analyser, the latest version of a cross-platform recording package, a multi-effects unit and a MIDI scripter. And you won't have to pay a bean for any of them.

MultiInspectorFree

MultiInspectorFree

VertexDSP MultiInspectorFree v1.2

Platform/format: PC and Mac/VST and AU Download

Now compatible with FXpansion's VST-RTAS Adapter and featuring improved window handling in the AU version, this is a 31-band spectral analyser that's designed to be used in a multitrack environment. In other words, it offers spectral analysis of several audio signals simultaneously.

MUTOOLS mu.lab

MUTOOLS mu.lab

MUTOOLS MU.LAB Free v2.5.4

Platform: PC and Mac Download

Just updated to version 2.5.4, this is a simple recording app that should make it easy to record your music. Featuring MIDI and audio support, it can also run VST plug-ins and act as a ReWire Master. Hell, you can even boot it from a USB memory stick if you want. This tweak adds an Event Monitor plug-in and fixes various bugs.

Az audio ultra trigger fx

Az audio ultra trigger fx

AZ Audio Ultra Trigger FX

Platform/format: PC/VST Download

All versions of this multi-effects plug-in (including the Pro edition) are now available as freeware. It's designed specifically for live/real-time audio work and, to this end, has various 'triggering' options. Specifically, you can make FX selections and adjust mix values from your MIDI keyboard or other control surface.

AZ audio supermidiscripter

AZ audio supermidiscripter

AZ Audio Super MIDI Scripter

Platform/format: PC/VST Download

Another horse from the AZ Audio stable, this MIDI processing tool is available in both plug-in and standalone versions. Described as 'a relay between the host and the instrument', it's not exactly pick-up-and-play software, but power MIDI users should swing by the AZ website and give it the once over.

Ben Rogerson
Deputy Editor

I’m the Deputy Editor of MusicRadar, having worked on the site since its launch in 2007. I previously spent eight years working on our sister magazine, Computer Music. I’ve been playing the piano, gigging in bands and failing to finish tracks at home for more than 30 years, 24 of which I’ve also spent writing about music and the ever-changing technology used to make it.