When you hear a song on the radio or television, you can assume that whatever sounds you are hearing have been processed through some kind of audio recording software. Recording software, like GarageBand, Fruity Loops, and Pro Tools, can range in price, depth, and quality of the program. Simpler recording software, such as GarageBand, comes already installed on most Macintosh computers.
This program is free with the operating system that is already on the computer and can perform simple tasks such as cutting and looping tracks, manipulating and putting special affects on recorded sounds, and basic EQ and decible/volume manipulation. While it is reliable and useful for simple recording tasks, it is far from professional quality recording software.
Other recording softwares, like Pro Tools, come with a whole arsenal of advanced and professional recording quality accessories such as simultaneous multi-track recording, track and sound oscillation and fading tools. Comparing Pro Tools to GarageBand is like comparing Photoshop to Microsoft Paint.
This means that the user interface in much more in depth and it is even recommended to take classes to learn how to take full advantage of the program. Pro Tools, depending on the version you buy, can cost you anywhere between $200 and $700. Most other recording softwares, like Fruity Loops, range in between these two.
For recording from home, you probably don't need much more than GarageBand and a decent mixer.
