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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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    Region Variations

    Digidesign (Avid) Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    We delve once more into the power hidden in Pro Tools' unassuming Region List window.

    Techniques Dec 2009
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    Region Control

    Digidesign (Avid) Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    The Region List in Pro Tools is easy to overlook, but provides the most powerful way to keep track of what's in your Session.

    Techniques Nov 2009
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    Splitting Sessions

    Digidesign (Avid) Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Working on lots of songs within one project can be annoying. Why not use Pro Tools' advanced features to create a tailor-made Session for each one?

    Techniques Oct 2009
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    Missing Files

    Digidesign (Avid) Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    What to do when Pro Tools reports that files have gone missing? Find out in this month's invaluable assortment of tips and tricks.

    Techniques Sep 2009
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    Troubleshooting Pro Tools

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Newcomers and power users alike need to know how to make things right when their Pro Tools Sessions run into trouble.

    Techniques Aug 2009
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    Tips For Beginners

    Digidesign (Avid) Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    We continue our newcomer's guide to Pro Tools with a selection of techniques that every user should know.

    Techniques Jul 2009
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    Getting Into Pro Tools

    Part 2: Installation & Session Basics

    Our short series on getting started with Pro Tools continues with some advice on configuring the software and your first Sessions.

    Techniques Jun 2009
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    Specifying & Buying Your First System

    Digidesign (Avid) Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Tempted to invest in a Pro Tools rig but don't know where to begin? You need our handy guide to choosing a system.

    Techniques May 2009
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    Track Comping

    Digidesign (Avid) Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    One of the major new features in Pro Tools 8 is a system for easily assembling 'comp' tracks from multiple takes. We explain how it all works.

    Techniques Apr 2009
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    MIDI & Score Editors

    Digidesign (Avid) Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    At the heart of Digidesign's drive to turn Pro Tools into a serious tool for music creation are the MIDI and Score editors in Pro Tools 8. We explain how to get the best from these new heavyweights.

    Techniques Mar 2009
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    Digidesign Pro Tools 8: Part 2

    Digital Audio Workstation Software [Mac/PC]

    As well as the new user interface, MIDI and score editors described in Part 1 of our review, Pro Tools 8 offers an impressive collection of instruments and plug-ins, new ways of working with Playlists, and even the option of surround mixing in LE.

    Reviews Feb 2009
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    Digidesign Pro Tools 8

    Digital Audio Workstation Software For Mac & PC: Part 1

    Eight is considered a lucky number in Chinese culture. Will this eighth version of Pro Tools bring prosperity to Digidesign, as they try to establish their world-leading recording and mixing application as a serious contender in the music-creation market?

    Reviews Jan 2009
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