Unveiling Cakewalk Sonar and Cakewalk Next

Cakewalk Sonar revisits the original essence of the DAW as Cakewalk SONAR, unveiling Cakewalk Sonar and Cakewalk Next. Both being infused with a revamped GUI and a platform pledged to continuous feature improvements, according to BandLab. The updated Sonar will remain a Windows-exclusive product, with assurances of compatibility with older projects of SONAR and Cakewalk by BandLab. BandLab Technologies is a subsidiary of Caldecott Music Group, which also owns MusicTech and NME Networks.

Unrestricted track availability

This DAW promises features like unrestricted track availability, a 64-bit audio engine, VST3 and ARA compatibility. Plus an array of virtual instruments and effects including VocalSync, and much more. There’s no confirmed launch date yet. Potential users can stay informed about Cakewalk Sonar’s development by subscribing to updates through the new Cakewalk Sonar webpage.

Cakewalk Next is more enigmatic, featuring a GUI closely mirroring the BandLab app and its browser-based DAW. Cakewalk Next appears to aim at delivering straightforward, potent tools for creators of all levels of music technology expertise. This version will be available on both Windows and macOS and directly connects to the BandLab platform.

Cakewalk Next – spark your creativity!

Cakewalk Next will incorporate BandLab Sounds, allowing you to effortlessly incorporate royalty-free samples into your projects. You’ll have the ability to load in your preferred AU and VST plugins, generate sounds with the Sampler and Pad Controller, or edit lyrics as you compose your song. For a quick start, Next also provides templated projects to spark your creativity.

The specifics of Next are sparse at the moment, but interested users can apply to participate in the beta program through the BandLab Next webpage.

Both Cakewalk by BandLab and the BandLab music creation platform are free. While BandLab will keep functioning as a free browser and smartphone app, Cakewalk by BandLab will be completely supplanted by Cakewalk Sonar and Cakewalk Next.

The price point for these fresh DAWs is still unclear. BandLab Technologies has stated that the pricing for both Cakewalk Sonar and Cakewalk Next will be shared as the products approach their launch dates.

With the Cakewalk makeover, BandLab Technologies claims it’s reinforcing its status as a premier provider of top-notch music creation tools for artists of all stages, on any device, throughout their creative journey. It seems clear that the new Cakewalk offerings will extend beyond simple standalone desktop DAWs.

Considering that several music production smartphone apps and groove-boxes permit exporting ideas to desktop DAWs like Ableton Live, the demand for cross-compatibility is increasing. With Cakewalk Next promising BandLab connectivity, you could likely transfer your ideas directly from your phone to your desktop.

A robust desktop ecosystem

Meng Ru Kuok, BandLab Technologies CEO and co-founder, says they aim to fortify creators with various workflow options, offering a robust ecosystem. They view it as an interconnected chain aiding creators throughout their creative journey.

He adds that while BandLab has elevated mobile creation potential, they believe there’s more to offer, especially as users become more sophisticated and engage with other creators and partners. Cakewalk now functions as an independent brand with more exciting announcements in the pipeline.

Last month, BandLab was valued at $425 million following a $25 million Series B1 raise. The company states that will be “strategically directed towards key areas that further enhance the company’s commitment to accessible music-making and innovation.”

Source: MusicTech.com / Photos: Cakewalk.com