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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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    Getting More From DP's MasterWorks Plug-ins: Part1

    MOTU Digital Performer Tips & Tricks

    We explore three of the MasterWorks processors: MW FET‑76, MW Leveler and MW Compressor.

    Techniques Jan 2020
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    Personalising Digital Performer

    MOTU Digital Performer Tips & Tricks

    Tailor the look and feel of DP to your own preferences.

    Techniques Nov 2019
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    What's New In DP10?

    MOTU Digital Performer Tips & Tricks

    Take our tour of the new features in DP10.

    Techniques Sep 2019
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    Vocal Processing & Effects In Digital Performer

    MOTU Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    Digital Performer has all the tools you need to sculpt the perfect vocal sound.

    Techniques May 2019
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    Digital Performer Stompboxes

    MOTU Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    Many of DP's emulated guitar pedals offer even more than the real thing!

    Techniques Mar 2019
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    Using DP's Guitar Amp Plug-ins

    MOTU Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    From shred to salsa, Digital Performer's amp modelling tools can cater for any guitar style.

    Techniques Feb 2019
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    Digital Performer: Chunk Changes

    MOTU Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    Digital Performer’s Chunks window makes it easy to reorder, build, and recombine musical material.

    Techniques Sep 2018
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    Digital Performer: Pitch Craft

    MOTU Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    We explore DP’s tools for applying pitch-correction, harmony generation, pitch-quantising and pitch effects to vocal tracks.

    Techniques Apr 2018
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    Using Digital Performer's Comp Tools

    MOTU Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    We explain how to use Digital Performer’s comping tools to assemble a killer vocal take.

    Techniques Feb 2018
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    Downsizing DP

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    When screen space is at a premium, it’s time to customise Digital Performer’s user interface.

    Techniques Jul 2015
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    Master Works

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    Adding a master fader to Digital Performer’s Mixing Board makes many mixing and mastering tasks easier.

    Techniques Feb 2015
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    Side Effects

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    Enjoy the creative possibilities of taking Digital Performer’s bundled plug–ins out of their comfort zone.

    Techniques Oct 2014
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    Project & Survive

    Digital Performer Tips and Techniques

    Understanding DP's projects and sequences can help you develop, archive and protect your hard work!

    Techniques May 2014
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    New Plug-ins For DP8

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    MOTU's Digital Performer 8 includes some neat new plug-ins — many with applications beyond the obvious.

    Techniques Jan 2014
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    MOTU Digital Performer 8

    Music Production Software For Mac OS & Windows

    Nearly 30 years into its history, Mark Of The Unicorn's flagship recording package makes its first appearance as a Windows application. How worried should MOTU's competitors be?

    Techniques Nov 2013
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    Stereo Lab

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    Spruce up your soundstage with DP8's new Ensemble Chorus and Spatial Maximizer plug-ins.

    Techniques Sep 2013
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    Stereo Lab | Media

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    Audio files to accompany the article.

    Techniques Sep 2013
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    Power Plugs

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    DP still has its full share of virtual guitar amps and pedals, reverb and chorus plug-ins — but version 8 also introduced some quality problem-solvers.

    Techniques May 2013
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    Digital Performer 8

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    DP8 for Mac has finally arrived — so here’s an upgrader’s guide to some of its new features.

    Techniques Feb 2013
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    Basic Instinct

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    As we wait with bated breath for the release of DP8, let’s revise some core DP techniques…

    Techniques Nov 2012
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    Window Cleaner

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    Find out how to harness the flexibility of DP’s user interface without being drowned in windows.

    Techniques Jul 2012

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