You are here

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.

Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 items
  • link

    Using Outboard Gear

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Recording and mixing with outboard gear in Cubase 6.

    Techniques Dec 2011
  • link

    Liven Up Your Drum Loops, Part 3

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Mangling your old drum loops is easy with Cubase 6’s LoopMash 2 plug-in. • Read Part 1 • Read Part 2

    Techniques Nov 2011
  • link

    Liven Up Your Drum Loops, Part 2

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    We introduce even more ways to spice up your drum loops in Cubase. • Read Part 1 • Read Part 3

    Techniques Oct 2011
  • link

    Liven Up Your Drum Loops, Part 1

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    If you want to breathe new life into your drum loop library, Cubase has the tools. You just need the know-how! • Read Part 2 • Read Part 3

    Techniques Sep 2011
  • link

    Vocal Comping

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Comping the perfect vocal from multiple takes is a common editing task — and Cubase 6 makes it easier than ever.

    Techniques Aug 2011
  • link

    Send Effects: More Than Reverb & Delay

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Cubase’s send effects aren’t just for reverb and delay!

    Techniques Jul 2011
  • link

    Keyboards & Other Controllers

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Not everyone uses keyboards to get their MIDI into Cubase, and with other controllers you may need to do a little more work...

    Techniques Jun 2011
  • link

    Media Composers

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    They shoot, you score! Cubase includes all the tools a would-be media composer needs to get started.

    Techniques May 2011
  • link

    Creative Automation

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Drawing automation data in Steinberg Cubase has creative applications that transcend simple level and pan tweaking.

    Techniques Mar 2011
  • link

    Automation Modes

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Have you ever wondered how best to use the different automation modes in Cubase? Then read on...

    Techniques Feb 2011
  • link

    Switching To 64-bit?

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    John Walden considers the leap from 32 to 64.

    Techniques Jan 2011
Subscribe to RSS - DAWs