Noteahead is a pattern-based MIDI sequencer and tracker-style music production environment for Linux.
It can drive external synthesizers and drum machines, but also includes internal instruments, effects, routing, recording, and rendering features, making it a lightweight “half-DAW” for musicians who prefer a keyboard-focused tracker workflow.
This is free and open source software.
Key Features
- Pattern-based sequencing with tracker-style editing
- Keyboard-driven workflow using decimal MIDI values
- Internal instruments including Synth, WavetableSynth, BassSynth, DrumSynth, and Sampler
- Virtual device rack for managing multiple instrument instances
- Master effects rack with EQ, reverb, compressor, delay, filters, pan, and volume tools
- Sample-accurate timing and high-precision offline WAV rendering
- MIDI hot-plugging, virtual MIDI out, MIDI clock, automation, arpeggiator, and chords
- Step recording from a MIDI controller
- Exports Standard MIDI Files with automation
- Saves projects in an open XML-based format
- Supports ALSA, PulseAudio, and JACK audio backends
Website: github.com/juzzlin/Noteahead
Support:
Developer: Jussi Lind
License: GNU General Public License v3.0
Noteahead is written in C++. Learn C++ with our recommended free books and free tutorials.
Related Software
| Music Trackers | |
|---|---|
| MilkyTracker | FT2 compatible music tracker |
| Furnace | Multi-system chiptune tracker |
| FamiStudio | NES music editor |
| Radium | Music editor sporting a sleek interface billed as a next generation tracker |
| Schism Tracker | Reimplementation of Impulse Tracker |
| OpenMPT | Audio module tracker (needs Wine to run) |
| BassoonTracker | Browser-based old-school Amiga music tracker |
| Little Piggy Tracker | Optimized for portable game consoles and retro gaming handhelds |
| klystrack | Tracker for making C64/NES/Amiga-style chiptunes |
| Noteahead | Pattern-based MIDI sequencer and tracker-style music production |
| RetroTrax | Music tracker inspired by ProTracker, FastTracker II and OctaMED |
Read our verdict in the software roundup.
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