Quick answer: BandLab is a free music-making platform that runs in the browser and on phones. It has a multitrack studio, built-in vocal effect presets, an automated mastering tool and a community for sharing songs. It suits beginners and collaborators. If you want deeper mixing control or a Logic-style workflow on a Mac, a desktop DAW such as Logic Pro or GarageBand fits better.
New to free vocal presets? Our complete guide to free vocal presets covers where to find safe ones, how to install them and how to build your own.
Deciding between the two programs? See Logic Pro vs GarageBand for vocals for a direct comparison.
This review covers what BandLab offers for vocalists: the studio, the vocal presets, mastering and sharing. Features and limits change, so check BandLab's site for current details before you commit a project to it.
What BandLab includes
- Studio: a multitrack editor in the browser and the mobile app. Record audio, add loops and mix on any device.
- Effect presets: one-click chains for voice and instruments, including vocal-oriented options.
- SongStarter: a tool that generates musical ideas to start from.
- Mastering: you upload a finished track and pick a style. BandLab has offered styles such as Universal, Fire and Clarity, free of charge.
- Collaboration and sharing: invite others to a project and share finished tracks on BandLab's social feed.
Recording vocals in BandLab
- Create a project and add an audio track.
- Pick your microphone as the input, and allow the browser to use it.
- Wear headphones so the beat does not leak into the mic.
- Record and test the level. If the meter reaches the top, lower the input gain.
- Try a vocal effect preset, then adjust EQ and reverb to taste.
Browser recording depends on your computer's audio driver and can add delay. A USB audio interface with direct monitoring avoids this.
For another online mastering option, read our LANDR review.
BandLab mastering: what it does and does not do
Automated mastering raises loudness, balances tone and smooths dynamics. It works best on a mix that is already balanced. It will not repair a muddy vocal or a clipped recording. Compare the result against your unmastered mix at the same volume, and keep the version you prefer. If the vocal sounds off after mastering, fix the mix first. Our vocal EQ cheat sheet covers common fixes.
Sharing your song on SoundCloud
Export your track from BandLab as an audio file, then upload it to SoundCloud yourself. Add a title, artwork and tags before you publish, and check SoundCloud's own upload limits. Do not upload songs that use samples you do not have the rights to.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Free to start on browser and mobile | Less control than a desktop DAW |
| Easy collaboration and cloud saving | Browser recording can have delay |
| Free automated mastering | Mastering styles are limited |
| No install needed | Plug-in support is limited compared with Logic or FL Studio |
BandLab or a desktop DAW?
Start in BandLab if you want to record a song today and share it with a friend. Move to Logic Pro or GarageBand when you want more control. On a Mac, you can load a finished vocal chain in either: try the free Toronto Warmth preset for Logic Pro X, the GarageBand Starter Pack ($19) or the Logic Pro Starter Pack ($19). See the free vocal presets roundup for more, and free beat makers and DAWs for alternatives.
Frequently asked questions
Is BandLab really free?
Its core studio and mastering have been free. Check BandLab's site for any paid plans and current limits.
Is BandLab mastering good enough?
For demos and social media, often yes. For a release, compare it against your own master and consider a human engineer for important projects.
Does BandLab work offline?
The browser studio needs a connection. Check the mobile app for any offline features.
Can I use BandLab with Logic Pro or GarageBand?
You can export audio from BandLab and import it into either program.
Is BandLab good for vocals?
It is good for quick demos. For full mixing control, use a desktop DAW with a vocal chain.
Back to the full guide: free vocal presets for Logic Pro and GarageBand. Related: Best Vocal Presets for Logic Pro (Free and Paid) and Best 2 Waves Vocal Chain Presets.
