In this detailed review, we'll explore what makes FL Studio 20.1.2.877 such a powerful and beloved tool among producers, from beginners to Grammy-winning artists.
What is FL Studio?
FL Studio (formerly known as FruityLoops) is a digital audio workstation developed by Image-Line, a Belgian software company. First released in 1997, FL Studio has grown into one of the most versatile and user-friendly DAWs on the market.
FL Studio is famous for its pattern-based sequencing, visually intuitive interface, and vast array of virtual instruments and effects. Whether you're making trap beats, EDM, lo-fi, or orchestral scores — FL Studio has everything you need in one place.
What’s New in FL Studio v20.1.2.877?
Released in 2019, this update brought several stability improvements, workflow enhancements, and bug fixes to the major version 20 platform.
Here are some of the highlights of v20.1.2.877:
Improved Plugin Delay Compensation (PDC)
Perfectly syncs plugins that introduce latency, improving mixing accuracy.
New Playlist Track Mode
Tracks now function with linked patterns, audio clips, and automation — great for organizing projects.
Mixer Track Routing Enhancements
More flexible track routing for complex mixing workflows.
ZGameEditor Visualizer Enhancements
New visual effects and better video exporting tools — ideal for YouTube music visuals.
Project Picker Improvements
Makes it easier to find and manage your projects visually.
These upgrades made FL Studio more intuitive for producers who want both speed and precision.
User Interface and Workflow
One of FL Studio’s biggest strengths is its graphical user interface. The layout is highly customizable and modular, allowing users to arrange windows and toolbars however they like.
Key UI components include:
Channel Rack: Houses your instruments and samples
Playlist: Arranges patterns, automation clips, and audio clips
Piano Roll: Used to compose melodies, chords, and drum patterns
Mixer: For leveling, panning, adding effects, and routing
FL Studio’s workflow is built around pattern-based composition. You create short loops (called patterns) and arrange them in the Playlist — making beat construction fast and visual.
Notable Features in FL Studio v20.1.2.877
Let’s dive into the features that set this version apart:
1. Lifetime Free Updates
All FL Studio users benefit from Image-Line’s generous policy: buy once, and receive updates forever — including this version.
2. High-Quality Built-in Plugins
FL Studio comes with a suite of plugins:
Sytrus – A powerful FM synthesizer
Harmor – Additive/subtractive synthesis powerhouse
Fruity Reeverb, Delay Bank, Parametric EQ 2 – Studio-grade effects
Gross Beat – Time/pitch manipulation tool used heavily in hip-hop/trap
FLEX (added in 2019) – A lightweight but powerful synth with a growing preset library
3. Drag and Drop Everything
Want to load a sample or VST? Just drag it into the interface. Simplicity at its finest.
4. Advanced Automation
Easily automate volume, panning, plugin parameters, and more using automation clips.
5. Audio Recording and Editing
Record vocals or instruments with latency compensation, then edit waveforms directly in Edison — FL Studio’s integrated audio editor.
6. Multi-Touch Support
Got a touchscreen laptop or monitor? FL Studio allows multi-touch control for live performances or studio tweaking.
7. Support for VST, VST3, and AU Plugins
FL Studio v20.1.2.877 supports third-party plugins, letting you expand your arsenal with industry favorites like Serum, Kontakt, Omnisphere, etc.
Audio Engine and Performance
FL Studio uses a high-performance audio engine that supports up to 192kHz / 32-bit float audio. It also supports ASIO drivers for low-latency recording and playback, making it suitable for professional studio environments.
Performance-wise, FL Studio v20.1.2.877 runs smoothly on most modern systems and is optimized for multi-core CPUs — though it still runs impressively well on older machines.
Why Producers Love FL Studio
FL Studio has gained a cult following over the years, especially in the hip-hop, trap, EDM, and lo-fi scenes. Here's why:
Easy to learn, hard to outgrow
Flexible workflow for beatmakers and songwriters
Rich ecosystem of samples, packs, and tutorials
Strong online community and YouTube content
Famous artists and producers such as Martin Garrix, Metro Boomin, Avicii, and Lex Luger have all used FL Studio for major releases.
System Requirements
Minimum specs for FL Studio v20.1.2.877:
OS: Windows 7, 8, 10 (32 or 64-bit)
CPU: Intel/AMD Dual Core with SSE2 support
RAM: 4 GB (8 GB recommended for large projects)
Disk: 4 GB free space
Audio: ASIO/ASIO2 compatible audio interface recommended
FL Studio also works on macOS, making it a cross-platform DAW.
Is It Safe and Legal?
Yes. If you purchase from Image-Line’s official website, you’ll receive a safe, legal copy. FL Studio doesn’t require dongles or intrusive DRM — just a login.
Beware of pirated versions. They can come with viruses, cause plugin issues, and you won’t receive updates or support.
Pricing (Back in 2019)
FL Studio came in four editions:
Fruity Edition – Basic (no audio recording)
Producer Edition – Full features
Signature Bundle – Includes premium plugins
All Plugins Bundle – Every plugin Image-Line makes
Prices ranged from $99 to $899, depending on the bundle. The 20.1.2.877 version was available as part of these editions with lifetime updates.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Lifetime free updates
Clean, intuitive interface
Huge plugin and effect library
Great for beat-making and full songs
Strong user community
Cons:
Slight learning curve for new users
Audio editing is good, but not as advanced as Pro Tools
Some UI quirks on macOS
Final Verdict
FL Studio v20.1.2.877 remains one of the best DAWs ever created. With its blend of flexibility, powerful tools, lifetime updates, and beginner-friendly design, it offers unmatched value to both novice and professional producers.
If you're serious about making music, and especially if you’re into beat production, hip-hop, or EDM — this version of FL Studio is a game-changer. Even in 2025, it remains relevant and dependable.
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