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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 - 9 of 9 items
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    MIDI Dynamics | Audio

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Controlling your synth's dynamics using MIDI, rather than audio plug-ins, can offer you greater flexibility and good results. Here's how you do it.

    Techniques Aug 2007
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    MIDI Dynamics

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Controlling your synth's dynamics using MIDI, rather than audio plug-ins, can offer you greater flexibility and good results. Here's how you do it.

    Techniques Aug 2007
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    Preparing Tracks For CD Burning

    Digital Performer Notes & Techniques

    This month, a look at how some of DP's features can be used to co-ordinate multiple finished tracks prior to burning an album or EP.

    Techniques Aug 2007
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    Using REX Files In Logic

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    You might consider the REX file to be just another format on the list of audio import options, but it can actually be used to achieve some very creative results. We take a look at what's possible.

    Techniques Aug 2007
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    Managing Inputs & Outputs

    Digidesign (Avid) Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Ever found yourself struggling to remember what you have connected to Input 7, or which effect is on Bus 3-4? Five minutes' work in the I/O Setup window will end your confusion forever...

    Techniques Aug 2007
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    Reason: Making The Most Of The Mixer

    Reason Notes & Techniques

    We go back to basics this month, with an in-depth look at how you can get the best out of Reason's Remix mixer.

    Techniques Aug 2007
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    Sonar: Features To Help With Songwriting

    Sonar Notes & Techniques

    DAW software is optimised for helping you record your songs and add lots of production polish, but don't forget that programs like Sonar can also help in the songwriting process, offering features that could make it easier to capture inspiration when it strikes.

    Techniques Aug 2007
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    Redmatica Keymap

    Sample & Instrument Editor For EXS24

    The latest utility from Redmatica is targeted at Logic users wanting to get the most from the programs built-in soft sampler.

    Reviews Aug 2007
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    Surround Sound From Stereo

    Upmixing Plug-ins For Pro Tools

    More and more material needs to be delivered in surround formats, but what if you dont have the time or the budget for a 5.1 remix? We test the current crop of unwrap plug-ins that can create a surround master from a stereo mix.

    Reviews Aug 2007
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