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 - 13 of 13 items
  • link

    Ableton Live 5

    Loop-based Sequencer [Windows/Mac OS X]

    Ableton Live is one of the software success stories of the last few years, with devoted users in fields as diverse as DJing, remixing, theatre sound and music production. Version 5 addresses requests from all these areas, whilst retaining the program's renowned ease of use.

    Reviews Nov 2005
  • link

    Cakewalk Sonar Home Studio

    MIDI + Audio Sequencer [Windows]

    With Sonar Home Studio, Cakewalk have made the core features of their flagship sequencing application available at a bargain price.

    Reviews Nov 2005
  • link

    Working With Video In Cubase SX/SL

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Since its SX reincarnation three years ago, Cubase has once again become one of the most flexible tools for writing music to picture. Let's investigate...

    Techniques Nov 2005
  • link

    ESX24 Sample Manager

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    More tips and news from the world of Apple Logic.

    Techniques Nov 2005
  • link

    Using Hardware Controllers With Logic

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Not everyone can afford to invest in a dedicated high-spec hardware controller such as Logic Control. However, you can use even the most humble of MIDI devices to control your mixer, software synths, and plug-ins instead.

    Techniques Nov 2005
  • link

    Fixing DP & Rewire Glitches

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    We've got news of some interesting new plug-ins this month, and the solution to one of those software compatibility problems that can drive you bananas...

    Techniques Nov 2005
  • link

    Using V-Racks In Digital Performer 4.6

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    One of the most exciting and unexpected new features unveiled in Digital Performer 4.6 is V-Racks, and, like many of the best things in life, it's something you probably didn't realise you needed until it came along...

    Techniques Nov 2005
  • link

    Digiworld 2005; Pro Tools 7

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Once again, there's a bumper crop of news from Digi-world to report, including the long-awaited jump to version 7 of Pro Tools.

    Techniques Nov 2005
  • link

    Managing iLok Plug-in Licences

    Sound Advice

    There can't be many Pro Tools users left who have not had to invest in an iLok key in order to run their favourite plug-ins. But did you know that you can insure, transfer and even buy and sell iLok plug-in licences electronically? Find out more...

    Techniques Nov 2005
  • link

    ReBirth & Reason

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    ReBirth is dead. Long live ReBirth! We discuss the decision to discontinue this pioneering software and discover how Reason users can keep its spirit alive.

    Techniques Nov 2005
  • link

    Sonar Notes

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    When the version number's most significant digit increments, you know something big is going to happen — what's inside Version 5?

    Techniques Nov 2005
  • link

    Mastering Reason 3 Mixes

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    Reason 3 has several new tools for pumping up final mixes and creating that 'finished product' sound.

    Techniques Nov 2005
  • link

    Sonar's Dreamstation Soft Synth

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    This modest little soft synth has been bundled with Sonar since version 1.0 and is very kind to your CPU resources, yet many Sonar users are still unaware of just how much you can squeeze out of it. We present some evidence.

    Techniques Nov 2005
Subscribe to RSS - DAWs