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DAWs

A DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) is a software program that allows users to record, edit, and produce audio files. It is used in many different settings, including music production, sound design, game audio, film and TV post-production, and podcasting.

Main Functions of a DAW

The main functions of modern-day Digital Audio Workstation software include:

Recording: DAWs allow users to record audio from a variety of sources, such as microphones, instruments, and MIDI controllers.

Editing: DAWs allow users to edit audio files by cutting, copying, pasting, and rearranging sections of audio. They also offer a variety of tools for cleaning up and enhancing audio, such as noise reduction, EQ, and compression.

Mixing: DAWs allow users to mix multiple audio tracks together, adjusting levels, panning, and applying effects to create a cohesive final product.

Mastering: DAWs offer tools and features for mastering audio, such as loudness normalization and EQ adjustments to ensure that the final audio product meets industry standards.

Main Benefits of using a DAW

Some of the main benefits of using a DAW include:

  • Efficiency: DAWs allow users to quickly and easily record, edit, and produce audio, saving time and effort compared to traditional analog methods.
  • Flexibility: DAWs offer a wide range of tools and features that allow users to customize their audio production process and achieve the desired results.
  • Collaboration: Many DAWs offer features that allow users to collaborate together and work on projects remotely, making it easier to work with others on audio projects like podcasts and song ideation.
  • Portability: DAWs can be used on a variety of devices, including computers, laptops, and tablets, making it easier to work on audio projects from anywhere.

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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    Reason's Monotone Synth

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    We get to grips with Reason's versatile new monosynth.

    Techniques Nov 2019
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    Reason's Rytmik Drum Machine

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    We explore Reason 10.4's new drum machine, Rytmik.

    Techniques Oct 2019
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    How To Run Reason With Modular Synths

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    We show you how to get Reason and your hardware or software modular synths speaking the same language.

    Techniques Aug 2019
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    Modular I/O In Reason

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    We show you how to connect audio, MIDI and CV between Reason and your virtual modular.

    Techniques Jul 2019
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    Reason: External Clocking

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    We show you how to keep Reason in sync with the outside world.

    Techniques May 2019
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    Reason: Hardware MIDI Integration

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    Reason may be a self-contained studio, but it can still play nicely with others.

    Techniques Apr 2019
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    Reason: Complex-1 Modular

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    Propellerhead's new instrument is a modular within your modular.

    Techniques Mar 2019
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    Multi-lane Editing In Reason

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    Multi‑lane editing is the secret to working with MIDI notes and drum layers in context within Reason.

    Techniques Feb 2019
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    Reason: New Tricks

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    The latest juicy Reason 10.2 update serves up a generous scoop of workflow smoothers.

    Techniques Jan 2019
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    Reason: The Automation Situation

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    Most of the music tech software and gear we use has some concept of recording and reproducing parameter changes. We take a tour of Reason’s extensive automation facilities.

    Techniques Nov 2018
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    Reason: Connecting Multi-channel Gate Sequencers

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    How to connect multi-channel gate sequencers like Lectric Panda’s CVPT to any instrument or plug-in in Reason.

    Techniques Sep 2018
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    Reason 10.1 101

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    The latest version of Reason introduces new Player devices and a big update for flagship synth Europa.

    Techniques Jul 2018
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    Reason's Radical Piano

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    We get to grips with Reason’s aptly named Radical Piano.

    Techniques May 2018
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    Reason: Boost Productivity With Templates

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    Cut to the chase with Reason templates.

    Techniques Apr 2018
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    Reason Rack Extensions Subscription Plans

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    We investigate Propellerheads’ new subscription service for Reason Rack Extensions.

    Techniques Mar 2018
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    Reason's Synchronous Rack Extension

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    Propellerhead’s uber-modulator Synchronous is now included for free with Reason 10.

    Techniques Feb 2018
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    Reason's Grain Synthesizer

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    We get to grips with Grain, Reason 10’s versatile new granular synth.

    Techniques Jan 2018
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    Reason's Europa Synthesizer

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    We explore Reason’s new flagship synth: Europa.

    Techniques Dec 2017
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    Integrating Maschine With Reason

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    We show you how to integrate NI's Maschine with Reason.

    Techniques Oct 2017
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    VST Support In Reason

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    Reason has finally embraced VST support. We tell you what you need to know...

    Techniques Aug 2017
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    X0X-style Step Sequencing In Reason

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    A new Rack Extension, Grid64g, adds X0X-style step sequencing to Reason instruments.

    Techniques Jul 2017

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