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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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    Cakewalk Sonar 6

    MIDI + Audio Sequencer [Windows]

    Another major upgrade for Cakewalk's DAW software adds powerful new features, and provides hands-on control at a touch.

    Reviews Dec 2006
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    Customisation Options In Sonar 6

    Sonar Notes & Techniques

    Sonar seems to get more customisable with every version, and the newly released Sonar 6 is no exception, allowing you to tweak various aspects of appearance and operation until the program looks and feels just the way you want it.

    Techniques Nov 2006
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    Working With Video In Sonar 5

    Sonar Notes & Techniques

    As video becomes more accessible, Cakewalk have taken notice, adding a lot of video-friendly features to Sonar 5. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to combine the worlds of audio and video within the program.

    Techniques Oct 2006
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    Programming Sonar 5's Pentagon I Soft Synth

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    The Pentagon I soft synth bundled with Sonar 5 is a powerhouse that even offers vocoding facilities. If you've overlooked it so far, remedy the situation with our tips, tricks and programming guide.

    Techniques Sep 2006
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    Mix Mode Options In Sonar

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Sonar offers several ways to mix, but is that a benefit or a source of confusion? Learn what the various mix modes do and you can choose the one that's right for your project.

    Techniques Aug 2006
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    Using Off-Line DSP In Sonar

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    If you never venture into Sonar's off-line DSP section, now could be the time to check it out, following Cakewalk's v5 revamp of these useful functions.

    Techniques Jun 2006
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    Recording Killer Guitar Sounds In Sonar 5

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    The technology for easily achieving an expensively produced effect when recording guitars is becoming more and more accessible. We take a look at what Sonar has to offer in this department, and examine other tools for creating killer guitar sounds.

    Techniques May 2006
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    Useful Sonar Features You May Have Missed

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    In a program as complex and feature-rich as Sonar, it's almost inevitable that there are useful little facilities that could make your life easier, which you have somehow overlooked or forgotten. We turn the spotlight on some of the best.

    Techniques Apr 2006
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    Using RXP REX-file Player In Sonar 5 Producer Edition

    Sonar Tips & Technique

    Now that the RXP REX-file player is bundled with the Producer Edition of Sonar 5, the creative possibilities of REX files have really opened up for Sonar users. We take a tour around RXP and discuss its features and uses.

    Techniques Mar 2006
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    Project Navigation In Sonar

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Take the trouble to discover the ways of moving around your project quickly and efficiently: it saves time and improves workflow.

    Techniques Feb 2006
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    Using Sonar 5's Cyclone Loop Tool

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    The Cyclone 'groove sampler' DXi, bundled free with Sonar, is a powerful tool that allows loops of all kinds to be dissected, manipulated and generally bent to your will...

    Techniques Jan 2006
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