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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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    Safe Keeping

    Studio One Tips & Techniques

    Properly archiving your finished projects is vital. Here’s how to do it in Studio One.

    Techniques Nov 2014
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    Unfolding Events

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    Studio One lets you apply effects directly to audio Events, opening up innumerable creative possibilities.

    Techniques Oct 2014
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    Repeat After Me

    Studio One Tips & Techniques

    The ability to sync delay times and other Studio One parameters to tempo is a fertile source of inspiration.

    Techniques Sep 2014
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    Macro Bionic

    Studio One Tips & Techniques

    Studio One's macros can take the legwork out of repetitive tasks.

    Techniques Aug 2014
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    Stretcher Cases

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    Studio One supports many varieties of time‑stretching.

    Techniques Jun 2014
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    Sets On Fire

    Studio One Tips and Technique

    Studio One's Sound Sets are the perfect vehicle for sharing samples and sounds.

    Techniques May 2014
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    Odd Times | Media

    Sudio One Tips & Techniques

    Audio files to accompany the article.

    Techniques Apr 2014
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    Odd Times

    Studio One Tips & Techniques

    Studio One MIDI sequences can incorporate any note division, no matter how bizarre!

    Techniques Apr 2014
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    Open Wide | Media

    Studio One Tips & Techniques

    Audio files to accompany the article.

    Techniques Mar 2014
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    Open Wide

    Studio One Tips & Techniques

    Studio One offers multiple methods of synthesizing splendid stereo from mediocre mono.

    Techniques Mar 2014
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    Ampire Attack | Media

    Studio One Tips & Techniques

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    Techniques Feb 2014
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    Ampire Attack

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    Studio One’s virtual guitar amp offers a surprisingly wide range of tone-shaping options.

    Techniques Feb 2014
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    Side FX | Media

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    Techniques Jan 2014
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    Side FX

    Studio One Tips & Techniques

    From de-essing to complex drum processing, side-chain access in Studio One opens up many new possibilities.

    Techniques Jan 2014
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