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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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    On Your Marks

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Get more done in less time, with these workflow tips for Cubase 7.

    Techniques Dec 2013
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    Cut & Sample

    Reaper Tips & Techniques

    After introducing the Dynamic Split function in August's Reaper column we revisit it for this tutorial to cut up a recording into a series of short samples.

    Techniques Dec 2013
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    Aping Tape

    Ableton Live Tips & Techniques

    Learn how to mimic a classic analogue tape delay with Live's Looper device.

    Techniques Dec 2013
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    Arp Nouveau

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Get acquainted with Logic Pro X's slick new Arpeggiator.

    Techniques Dec 2013
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    Eleventh Heaven

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Now that Pro Tools 11 has been available for a while, is it living up to its promise?

    Techniques Dec 2013
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    Pre-emptive Strike

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    A little preparation in Reason should see you ready for anything.

    Techniques Dec 2013
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    Get Your Kicks

    Studio One Tips & Techniques

    When your recorded kick drum sound is lacking, Studio One offers numerous ways to beef it up.

    Techniques Dec 2013
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    Make The Upgrade

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Migrating Your Plug-ins & Settings To Sonar X3.

    Techniques Dec 2013
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    Keyboard Fraud

    Cubase Tips & Techiques

    With the Chord Track, even the most keyboard-phobic and ham-fisted of composers can play in their piano parts!

    Techniques Nov 2013
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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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    Groove Mechanics

    Ableton Live tips & Techniques

    Trouble finding your groove? Come with us as we dive into Live's Groove Pool...

    Techniques Nov 2013
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    Plug-in And Play

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Discover untold creative possibilities with Logic's powerful new MIDI plug-ins.

    Techniques Nov 2013
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    Pain-free PT

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    If you rely on Pro Tools, it's worth taking steps to avoid RSI.

    Techniques Nov 2013
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    Just Browsing

    Reason tips & Techniques

    Understanding Reason's Patch Browser can help you to work faster and more efficiently.

    Techniques Nov 2013
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    Comp Together

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Craft the perfect take using Sonar X3's new Track Lanes.

    Techniques Nov 2013
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    Point Six Power

    Studio One Tips & Techniques

    A free upgrade to Studio One offers several welcome new features.

    Techniques Nov 2013
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    Step Up!

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Cubase's StepDesigner offers a surprising amount of creative potential.

    Techniques Oct 2013
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    Group Therapy

    Ableton Live Tips & Techniques

    Track grouping is one of Live's most powerful tools for managing your tracks in both Session and Arrangement view.

    Techniques Oct 2013
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    Beat Generation

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Make modern electronic beats with Logic's Drummer.

    Techniques Oct 2013
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    Change Of PACE

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Freed from the limitations of working within a web browser, the new iLok License Manager also offers a much improved user interface.

    Techniques Oct 2013
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    Sonic Safari

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    Join us as we explore the unexpected creative possibilities of Reason 7's effects.

    Techniques Oct 2013

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