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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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    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 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 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. Why won't my Logic EVOC vocoder plug-in work?

    I'm at a loss. I cannot get the EVOC PS vocoder to work in Logic Pro 7 on a Power Mac G5 with Mac OSX 10.4.11 — or with...

    Sound Advice Jan 2009
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    Redmatica Keymap

    Sample & Instrument Editor For EXS24

    The latest utility from Redmatica is targeted at Logic users wanting to get the most from the programs built-in soft sampler.

    Reviews Aug 2007
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    Q. Is there a guitar synth for Logic?

    I am looking for a versatile, hardware sound module to play with my Roland GK-enabled guitar. I wish someone made a...

    Sound Advice Jun 2007
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    Q. Can I get my mixer to communicate with Logic?

    I'm in charge of setting up my church's recording room. We have an Apple G4 dual-1.25GHz computer and a Behringer MX 2004a...

    Sound Advice Dec 2006
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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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    Q. What is the best way to set up instruments in Logic?

    I understand that if you have Mac OS 10.4 'Tiger' you can add and set up external MIDI instruments using the Audio MIDI...

    Sound Advice Mar 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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    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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    Q. How do I make the JV1080's patch names come up in Logic?

    I'm having trouble getting my Roland JV1080 to work well with Emagic Logic Audio. When I change MIDI channel in Logic the sound disappears, or I can't get the sounds that I want to stay put. How can I get Logic and the JV to synchronise?

    Sound Advice Dec 2003
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    Emagic Logic v5 & Logic Control

    MIDI+Audio Sequencer & Hardware Control Surface

    Users of Emagic's Logic sequencer have been itching to get their hands on the latest version 5 and Logic Control, the company's dedicated moving-fader control system. Has it been worth the wait?

    Reviews Apr 2002
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