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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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    Propellerhead Reason 9

    Music Production Software

    Propellerhead’s latest Reason update adds features you never knew you wanted — but which you might find indispensible.

    Reviews Sep 2016
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    Propellerhead Reason 8

    Music Production Software For Mac OS & Windows

    Is there more to the latest version of Reason than a pretty face?

    Reviews Dec 2014
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    Propellerhead Reason 7

    Music Production Software For Mac OS & Windows

    Reason has evolved in splendid isolation from other production tools, but version 7 sees Propellerhead build bridges to the outside world.

    Reviews Jun 2013
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    Propellerhead Reason 6

    Music Creation Software

    By merging their flagship application with its sibling, Record, Propellerhead have created something users have demanded for years: Reason with built-in audio recording.

    Reviews Nov 2011
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    Propellerhead Reason 5

    Audio Production Software For Mac & PC

    The latest version of Reason incorporates new arrangement tools and two powerful new instruments, and even lets you record samples. Meanwhile, sister application Record continues to develop too...

    Reviews Oct 2010
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    Propellerhead Record

    Music Production Software [Mac/PC]

    Its been a long time coming, but Propellerhead have finally unveiled their take on computer-based audio recording and mixing.

    Reviews Oct 2009
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    Propellerhead Reason v3

    Virtual Electronic Studio [Mac OS X/PC]

    Astonishingly, Reason is now over four years old! Version 3 adds performance-enhancing features and mastering facilities, losing only Mac OS 9 support on the way. We bring you the first UK review of the full release version.

    Reviews May 2005
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    Propellerhead Reason v2.5

    Virtual Studio [Mac & PC]

    The success story that is the Reason software studio continues to unfold with the release of v2.5, which adds a slew of sophisticated effects and processing devices — all free to registered users.

    Reviews Dec 2003
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