Frequently asked questions

Answers to the most common questions about NovaStudio, how it stores your recordings, and what you need to get started.

Is NovaStudio really free?
Yes. There is no subscription, no account, and no usage cap. The app runs entirely in your browser and stores files on your own device.
Where are my recordings stored?
On your own machine - either in a folder you choose through the File System Access API, or in your browser's IndexedDB storage when that API is not available. Nothing is uploaded to us by default.
What browsers are supported?
Chrome, Edge, and other Chromium-based browsers on desktop and Android work best. Safari on iOS and macOS is supported through an IndexedDB fallback.
Can I use it on mobile?
Yes on Android in Chrome/Edge, and on iOS in Safari. For the best recording experience, use headphones and a microphone adapter or interface.
How many tracks can I record? Is there a limit?
NovaStudio starts with four tracks, matching the classic cassette four-track workflow. You can add more tracks whenever a song needs them. The practical limit depends on your device performance and browser memory.
Why does my recording sound late compared to the other tracks?
All audio systems have latency, especially in a browser. NovaStudio measures and compensates for latency automatically, and you can fine-tune the offset with the Latency slider on the input bar if your overdubs still feel late.
Can I use an audio interface, or only my built-in microphone?
You can use any microphone the browser recognises, including USB and audio interfaces. Select the input from the dropdown on the input bar. A dedicated interface usually gives lower latency and better preamps.
Why is my microphone input so quiet?
Set the input gain so your loudest peaks sit around -12 dB to -6 dB on the meter. If the gain is too low, the recording will be noisy when you turn it up later. If it is too high, it will clip.
Will my songs survive if I clear my browser data?
If you chose a workspace folder on your device, your songs are safe there. If you used IndexedDB fallback storage, clearing browser data or storage may delete the project files. Export important mixes and back them up.
How much storage does a song use?
A rough guide is about 10 MB per minute of mono 44.1 kHz / 32-bit float audio, and double that for stereo. Longer songs, more tracks, and higher bit depths increase the size.
Can I use NovaStudio offline?
Once the app has loaded in your browser, the recording and mixing engine works without an internet connection. You only need a connection to load the app initially and to use optional cloud storage if it is enabled.
Do I need an account to use NovaStudio?
No. NovaStudio does not require a username, password, or subscription. The free version runs entirely in your browser and stores files on your own device. Optional cloud storage uses your existing Google account, but the app itself has no accounts.
Why is monitoring off by default?
Monitoring routes the microphone straight to your headphones, which can cause feedback or howl if you are using laptop speakers or phone speakers. It is safer to leave it off and turn it on only when wearing headphones or using a dedicated interface.
Can I use effects or plugins?
NovaStudio focuses on clean capture, level, pan, mute, and solo. There are no built-in plugins yet, but you can export a WAV and process it in any other DAW or editor.
What sample rate and bit depth does it record at?
The project sample rate matches your AudioContext, normally 44.1 kHz or 48 kHz depending on your device. Recorded audio is stored as 32-bit float internally, and exported WAV files are 16-bit by default.
Is my audio ever uploaded anywhere?
By default, no. Everything is processed and stored locally. Optional cloud storage is only enabled if the app is built with that provider and you explicitly connect your own account.