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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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    Cubase: Transpose Track Tricks

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Cubase’s audio transpose features open up some interesting creative possibilities.

    Techniques Dec 2017
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    Cubase: Vocal Timing Correction

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Vocal perfection means timing correction — and Cubase’s AudioWarp gives you the tools you need.

    Techniques Nov 2017
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    Cubase: Create Arpeggios With Chord Pads

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    With only the most basic of keyboard skills, you can use Cubase to play convincing piano parts in real time.

    Techniques Oct 2017
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    Cubase: Rendering Multi-channel Instruments To Audio

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Want to convert your multi-channel instruments into audio? Here’s how to do it in Cubase.

    Techniques Sep 2017
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    Triggering Live Loops With Cubase's Groove Agent SE

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Live loop triggering may not be Cubase’s raison d’être, but it can be done...

    Techniques Aug 2017
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    Using Cubase On Stage

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Cubase’s natural home may be the recording studio, but you can also use it for on-stage improvisation.

    Techniques Jul 2017
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    Cubase Pro: Frequency EQ

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Cubase 9 Pro’s Frequency EQ plug-in can do everything from gentle tone shaping to delicate mid-sides surgery.

    Techniques Jun 2017
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    Cubase 9: Retrologue 2's Audio Input

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Cubase 9 makes side-chain audio inputs possible for VST 3 instruments, the first being Retrologue 2.

    Techniques May 2017
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    Cubase 9's Sampler Track

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Amongst Cubase 9’s new features is a whole new track type dedicated to quick and easy sampling.

    Techniques Apr 2017
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    Steinberg Cubase Pro 9

    Music Production Software

    The latest update to Cubase sees Steinberg’s DAW embrace single-window working and integrated sampling.

    Reviews Mar 2017
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    Cubase: Humanise Your Programmed Drums

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Cubase has all the tools required to add a human feel to your programmed acoustic drum parts.

    Techniques Feb 2017
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    Cubase's MIDI Drum Editor

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Don’t take Cubase’s dedicated MIDI Drum Editor for granted — it’s a gem!

    Techniques Jan 2017
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    Recreating The BBC Echo Mixture Control

    Send & Blend

    Turn your DAW’s aux sends into wet/dry blend controls that won’t raise the overall level of your signal.

    Techniques Jan 2017
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