To the uninitiated, Linux could also be nothing however arcane console instructions, however it gives an ideal desktop expertise and a ton of highly effective multimedia functions. The distros we’re taking a look at right here concentrate on serving to you get artistic work performed.

1

Ubuntu Studio

In case you’re undecided the place to begin with Linux distros targeted on getting artistic work performed, Ubuntu Studio is a superb place to begin. Not solely is it constructed on prime of a broadly supported working system, however features a huge assortment of artistic software program instruments within the preliminary set up.

As we’ve beforehand lined in a more in-depth look at Ubuntu Studio, that is greater than only a Linux distribution. Equally to a number of the different distros we’re taking a look at right here, you may set up the Ubuntu Studio instruments on any Ubuntu-powered system. This offers you quick access to instruments just like the Ubuntu Studio Audio Configuration, which helps you to simply configure your audio interface buffer dimension and pattern price, for instance.

Due to the trickier technical nature of audio and video associated functions, Ubuntu Studio focuses on getting these up and working. Which means well-liked video and streaming apps like Kdenlive and OBS are put in by default, as is the Passion digital audio workstation (DAW).

That stated, for those who’re a graphic designer or photograph editor, you’ll discover loads of instruments included in Ubuntu Studio which might be excellent for you. The GIMP picture editor, Darktable RAW photograph editors, and Blender 3D modeling app are among the many highlights right here.

2

AV Linux

In case you’re on the lookout for a Linux distro aimed toward creatives however with its personal distinctive really feel, AV Linux will be the creative-focused distro you’re on the lookout for. Not solely does this distribution provide a person interface you don’t usually see, however it additionally takes a unique strategy to its software program choice.

Regardless of the title, AV Linux is extra targeted on music manufacturing than Ubuntu Studio. It additionally consists of some closed-source business software program just like the Reaper DAW, Harrison Mixbus, and different software program. In case you’re used to solely seeing open-source software in your Linux distributions, this may increasingly come as a shock, however it could even be useful for those who intend to put in the software program anyway.

Most audio and video-focused Linux distributions use a tweaked or low latency kernel. Within the case of AV Linux, the distribution makes use of the customized Liquorix Kernel, for velocity and improved latency. AV Linux additionally consists of built-in utilities to allow you to run Home windows audio software program or plugins on Linux.

For extra info on this distro, together with its use of the Enlightenment desktop, see our introduction to AV Linux.

3

Fedora Jam

Often, the title of a Linux distribution says all there may be to say about it, and that’s the case with Fedora Jam. This creative-focused distro relies on Fedora Linux, however makes use of KDE as an alternative of the default GNOME desktop you’d sometimes discover on Fedora.

Just like base Fedora, this distribution focuses on a straightforward set up course of and a default configuration more likely to work for most individuals. Because the title implies, there seems to be a heavy concentrate on music apps like Passion, Audacity, and connective background apps like JACK.

The web site agrees, going as far as to say that Fedora Jam “is for audio lovers and musicians who wish to create, edit and produce audio and music on Linux.” That stated, there are many video and graphic-oriented apps as effectively.

Just like base Fedora, this can be a distribution that, a minimum of apart from drivers, tends to lean closely towards open-source software program. This implies you received’t discover closed-source apps put in by default, however they’re nonetheless comparatively simple to stand up and working because of Flatpak support.

Just like Ubuntu Studio, you may simply set up the audio instruments that make up the lion’s share of the Fedora Jam distribution on any Fedora-based distro. That is helpful for those who’re not a fan of KDE or for those who’ve already received a system arrange, and also you simply wish to set up a number of artistic apps in a single fell swoop.

4

KXStudio

KXStudio capabilities largely equally to different distros we’ve already checked out. The distinction is that whilst you can set up the KXStudio suite of software program on any Ubuntu or Debian-powered system, you may’t really obtain and set up KXStudio by itself.

To put in KXStudio, you merely begin with a base Debian or Ubuntu set up, observe the instructions to add the repositories from the KXStudio web site, and replace your system. As soon as the replace is full, you’ll be working the KXStudio distribution.

The included software program is targeted on audio production, and also you’ll discover the whole lot from MIDI sequencers to audio plugins included within the repositories. Extra importantly, you get the customized KXStudio functions like Cadence, which provides you a strong overview of JACK connections with patchbay performance and extra.

A few of these instruments can be found on different distributions like Arch, and in some circumstances, even different working methods like Home windows or macOS. Nonetheless, if you wish to expertise the whole lot KXStudio has to supply, it’s greatest to put in the distro straight from the repositories.

5

Rocky Linux

After the earlier entries on this listing, an enterprise-focused distribution aimed toward functioning as a drop-in alternative for Purple Hat Enterprise Linux could come as considerably of a shock. Why is Rocky Linux on this listing, then?

It’s easy: Rocky Linux is probably going the simplest (although removed from the one) possibility for putting in DaVinci Resolve on Linux. Loads of customers have discovered a method to get Resolve working on different methods, however Rocky Linux is the official advice that you simply’ll see once you obtain the Linux installer for DaVinci Resolve, a minimum of as of model 19.

In case you’ve even dabbled in video, you probably perceive how essential this can be. DaVinci Resolve is easily the best free video editing software you’ll discover. It’s a business product, so it isn’t open-source software program, however for those who’re solely frightened about whether or not you’ll must pay up, it’s fully freed from cost.

After all, even for those who’re not planning to make use of DaVinci Resolve, utilizing a Linux distribution identified for its rock-solid reliability has different advantages. When you can’t at all times rely on the most recent software program packages being obtainable, you may relaxation assured that what is offered within the software program repositories is well-tested and prepared for a manufacturing atmosphere.

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Whereas a targeted distribution can take some guesswork out of getting began with artistic workflows on Linux, do not forget that the inherent flexibility of the OS means that is potential with almost any distro. In case you can’t wait to get began, there’s no want to put in a brand-new distribution, simply seize considered one of our favorite Photoshop alternatives and get to work.