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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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    Looking After Logic

    Performance & Maintenance Tips

    Housekeeping tasks might not be as much fun as making music, but staying on top of them should ensure safely backed-up tracks and a hassle-free system performing at its best.

    Techniques Dec 2008
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    Quantisation & Groove Functions In Logic

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    Logic's quantisation facilities can do lots more than just helping you to tidy up sloppy timing — although they can certainly do that. Here's a simple guide to some of the possibilities.

    Techniques Nov 2008
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    Using Logic's Takes Feature For Comping

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    Logic 8's 'Takes' functionality makes comping together several different passes of the same part quick and easy. We show you how to do it.

    Techniques Oct 2008
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    Understanding Ultrabeat: Part 2: The Synthesizer

    Expand Your Sonic Horizon

    Ultrabeat has powers beyond simple drum pattern creation, offering a synthesis section that's the key to more varied percussive sounds and rhythmic effects.

    Techniques Sep 2008
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    Understanding Ultrabeat: Part 1: The Basics

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    Not everyone finds drum programming easy, and if you're one of the rhythmically challenged, Logic's Ultrabeat drum synth could be your ticket to more interesting and sophisticated percussive parts.

    Techniques Aug 2008
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    Better Logic Scores: Part 2: Further Improvements

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    We covered the basics of score production last month; now it's time to learn more about presentation, with the aim of creating scores that really look the part.

    Techniques Jul 2008
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    Better Logic Scores: Part 1: The Basics

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    If you want real musicians playing your composition but have no idea how scores should be presented for them, you can still make playable Logic parts with our simple guide.

    Techniques Jun 2008
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    New Instrument Features In Logic Pro 8

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    Logic Pro 8 may not have new software instruments, but scratch beneath the surface and you'll discover significant improvements to what was already an impressive collection.

    Techniques May 2008
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    Logic's Best-kept Secret: Hyper Editing

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    Logic's Hyper Editor is a powerful way of creating and manipulating MIDI data, but it's often overlooked. We give you the low-down in this advanced workshop, and suggest some ways of using the Hyper Editor in your music.

    Techniques Apr 2008
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    Drum Editing & Replacement In Logic Pro

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    You're given a Logic project with a less than impressive drum recording, and you need to make it sparkle. Do you book another recording session, get down to some serious editing, or replace the whole lot with samples? Delay your decision until you've read this article...

    Techniques Mar 2008
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    Making Impulse Responses with Logic's IR Utility

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    Convolution is the technology du jour for creating convincing reverbs, and if you're a Logic Studio bundle owner, you already have a utility that will let you get into it yourself, by creating custom impulse responses for the Space Designer plug-in.

    Techniques Feb 2008
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    Logic Pro 8's New & Improved Effects

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    The newest version of Logic features powerful new effects, alongside improvements to existing ones. We explore what they have to offer.

    Techniques Jan 2008
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