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DAW Software

A DAW, which stands for Digital Audio Workstation, is a software tool that enables users to capture, modify, and create audio content. It is utilised in various contexts such as music production, sound design, game audio, film and TV post-production, and podcasting.

Primary uses of a DAW

The primary purposes of contemporary Digital Audio Workstation software comprise: 

Recording: All DAWs enable users to capture audio from different sources like microphones, instruments, and MIDI controllers using an Audio Interface connected to the computer.

Editing:  DAWs enable users to cut, copy, paste, and rearrange sections of audio files. They also provide a range of tools for improving the quality of audio, including noise reduction, EQ, and compression.

Mixing: Digital Audio Workstations enable users to blend various audio tracks, modifying volumes, positioning, and adding effects to produce a unified end result.

Mastering: Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) provide features like loudness normalisation and EQ adjustments to ensure the final audio meets industry standards.

Advantages of utilising a Digital Audio Workstation

Efficiency: DAWs enable users to efficiently record, edit, and produce audio with ease, cutting down on time and effort when compared to traditional analogue techniques.

Flexibility: DAWs offer a wide range of tools and features that allow users to customise their audio production process and achieve the desired results.

Collaboration: Numerous DAWs provide tools that enable users to work together and collaborate on projects from different locations, simplifying the process of collaborating on audio projects such as podcasts and song creation.

Portability: Digital Audio Workstations are compatible with different devices such as desktop computers (Mac/PC) , laptops and tablets, allowing users to work on audio projects conveniently from any location.

There are many popular software DAWs, some of which come built into the Operating System of your favourite computer, such as Apple GarageBand on Macs. Sound On Sound regularly covers all the top brands in its monthly DAW Masterclasses. From Steinberg Cubase and Avid Pro Tools, PreSonus Studio One and Apple Logic Pro, MOTU Digital Performer to Ableton Live, Reason Studios Reason and Cockos Reaper, you'll find how-to techniques and tips for all of these and other DAWs collected under the sections shown above.

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    Apple Logic Pro For iPad

    Digital Audio Workstation Software

    With their iPad version of Logic Pro, have Apple succeeded in implementing a touch‑first user interface without sacrificing pro features?

    Reviews Nov 2023
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    Apple Logic Pro 10.7

    Music Production Software

    Could a small step for Logic’s version number represent a giant leap for music production?

    Reviews Feb 2022
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    Apple Logic Pro X 10.5

    Digital Audio Workstation

    Logic Pro X 10.5 introduces a raft of new features and remains exceptional value for money.

    Reviews Sep 2020
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    Apple Logic Pro 10.3

    Digital Audio Workstation For Mac OS

    Offline effects and new playlist functionality are just two of the highlights of Apple’s latest Logic update.

    Reviews Jun 2017
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    Apple GarageBand For iOS 2.2

    DAW App For iOS

    GarageBand For iOS continues to impress as it becomes more sophisticated; and while you likely won’t finish a full production with this app, it’s becoming an increasingly good sketchpad — especially with the increased Logic interoperability.

    Reviews Mar 2017
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    Apple GarageBand 2.1

    DAW App For iOS

    GarageBand 2.1 now  supports the iPad Pro, but also has new features to benefit all users. When you start a new Song, you now have the option to use Tracks (as before) or the new Live Loops.

    Reviews Apr 2016
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    Apple Logic Pro 10.1

    Digital Audio Workstation Software For Mac OS

    Though the headline features are aimed at dance producers, Apple’s latest Logic update has something for everyone. And it’s free!

    Reviews Apr 2015
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    Apple GarageBand 10

    Music Production Software For Mac OS

    The latest version of Apple's entry-level music software draws heavily from Logic Pro X. Is this the return of Logic Express?

    Reviews Feb 2014
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    Apple Logic Pro X

    Music Production Software For Mac OS

    Apple have made Logic easier to use. But have they compromised the powerful features that professional users depend on?

    Reviews Sep 2013
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    Apple Logic Pro 9

    Music Production Software [Mac OS]

    Apple have made over 200 improvements to their flagship music production bundle. Can they win over new friends while keeping Logics core user base happy?

    Reviews Oct 2009
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    Q. How do I compensate for latency in Logic?

    I use a G5 with Logic Pro, a TC Electronic Powercore, a MOTU HD192 interface and a variety of plug-ins, but have...

    Sound Advice Jul 2006
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    Apple Logic Express

    MIDI + Audio Sequencer [Mac OS X]

    Buying the Express version of Apple's Logic will save you a cool £500 over the full-blown Pro edition — and you'll still get a mighty powerful sequencer...

    Reviews Aug 2005
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    Apple Logic Pro 7

    MIDI + Audio Sequencer [Mac OS X]

    The new version 7 of Logic is a huge upgrade which sees the program assimilated even further into Apple's product range, and adds some intriguing new instruments and networking features. Following last month's preview, here's the full lowdown...

    Reviews Dec 2004
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    Q. How can I improve workflow between Mac- and PC-based sequencers?

    I am a composer working with Sibelius on a PC, and recently I needed to send some pieces to an orchestrator working in...

    Sound Advice Dec 2004
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    Apple Logic Pro 7 [Preview]

    MIDI + Audio Sequencer [Mac OS X]

    When Apple bought Emagic two years ago, the question on everyone's lips was 'What will they do with Logic?' Now they have unveiled perhaps the most radical overhaul the sequencer has ever seen, with improvements ranging from new instruments and effects to a networking system that could eliminate CPU restrictions completely. We explain what's changed in this preview (our full in-depth review will follow next month).

    Reviews Nov 2004
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