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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.

Displaying 1 - 12 of 12 items
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    Pro Tools: Destructive Actions

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Most Pro Tools operations are undoable — but some give you the option to commit permanently...

    Techniques Dec 2016
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    Pro Tools: Peak Practice

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    The loudness wars might be over, but peak levels in Pro Tools are still important.

    Techniques Nov 2016
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    Avid Application Manager

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    After a rocky start, Avid’s Application Manager is now bringing useful features to Pro Tools users.

    Techniques Oct 2016
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    Voice, Track & I/O Counts In Pro Tools

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Frustrated by I/O limitations in Pro Tools? Here’s how it all works.

    Techniques Sep 2016
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    Pro Tools: Cloud Collaboration FAQ

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    We clear up some of the issues surrounding cloud collaboration in Pro Tools 12.5.

    Techniques Aug 2016
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    Part 2: Cloud Collaboration In Pro Tools 12.5

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    In the second part of our guide to Pro Tools’ cloud collaboration features, we learn how to exchange tracks with other musicians.

    Techniques Jul 2016
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    Part 1: Cloud Collaboration In Pro Tools 12.5

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Pro Tools 12.5 lets you collaborate remotely with other users. Here’s how to get started.

    Techniques Jun 2016
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    Pro Tools: Track Freeze In 12.4

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    We explore the ins and outs of the new Track Freeze function in Pro Tools 12.4.

    Techniques May 2016
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    Pro Tools Fade Presets & Batch Fades

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Pro Tools 12.3 sees the introduction of the invaluable Fade Presets, as well as an improved Batch Fades dialogue.

    Techniques Apr 2016
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    Pro Tools: Archiving With Commit Tracks

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    The new Commit Tracks option in Pro Tools 12.3 makes archiving your projects easier than ever.

    Techniques Mar 2016
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    Making Commitments

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Pro Tools’ new Commit Tracks feature is great for saving system resources and sharing sessions.

    Techniques Feb 2016
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    Pro Tools Dashboard

    Avid Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    The Dashboard in Pro Tools 12 is the perfect jumping-off point for new and existing projects.

    Techniques Jan 2016
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