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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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    Caching In

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    As of version 12.2, all Pro Tools users now get powerful features like VCA Master tracks, Advanced Metering and the Disk Cache.

    Techniques Dec 2015
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    Reasonable Reaktion

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    Reaktor and other NI plug-ins have been staples in most of my musical efforts. This month I’ve brought together a bunch of tips for getting started working with these alongside Reason.

    Techniques Dec 2015
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    A Kind Of Magic: Alchemy

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Originally developed by Camel Audio, Alchemy is the most exciting new virtual instrument to be bundled with Logic for a long time. It is one of the most feature–packed synthesizers on the market, and includes many different synthesis types...

    Techniques Dec 2015
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    Patch Notes

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Get creative with Sonar’s new Universal Routing Technology...

    Techniques Dec 2015
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    Conform & Control

    Studio One Tips & Techniques

    Even complex audio recordings can be conformed to Studio One’s timeline — with very useful results.

    Techniques Dec 2015
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    Backup To The Future

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Your Cubase project is recorded, mixed and mastered... but is it secure?

    Techniques Dec 2015
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    Space Race

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Efficient management of Cubase’s Workspaces can be a great help when you need to work quickly.

    Techniques Nov 2015
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    Duck Tails | Media

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Audio files to accompany the article.

    Techniques Nov 2015
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    Too Good To M-S

    Ableton Live Tips & Techniques

    We investigate the creative potential of Mid-Sides processing in Live.

    Techniques Nov 2015
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    Duck Tails

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Combining dynamics processing with Logic Pro X’s reverbs and other plug-ins can produce some very creative ducking effects.

    Techniques Nov 2015
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    Reaper To Go

    Cockos Reaper Tips & Techniques

    Unlike most DAWs, Reaper can be run from an external drive without leaving a trace on the host machine!

    Techniques Nov 2015
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    Sample Minded

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Sample your own instruments in Sonar.

    Techniques Nov 2015
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    Unlooping The Loop

    Studio One Tips & Techniques

    Studio One offers all the tools you need to derive endless variations from a simple loop.

    Techniques Nov 2015
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    HD For All

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    The latest native Pro Tools versions offer powerful features that were once restricted to HD systems.

    Techniques Nov 2015
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    Unlooping The Loop | Media

    Studio One Tips & Techniques

    Audio files to accompany the article.

    Techniques Nov 2015
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    Services Rendered

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Whether archiving projects, creating stems or saving CPU resources, Cubase 8’s Render In Place feature has you covered.

    Techniques Oct 2015
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    Inside Out

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Pro Tools 12 makes radical improvements to the way inputs and outputs are handled, which benefit all users.

    Techniques Oct 2015
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    Studio One: Mid-Sides In The Channel Editor

    PreSonus Studio One Tips & Techniques

    Studio One 3’s new Channel Editor opens up a host of possibilities, including creative M-S processing.

    Techniques Oct 2015
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    Hands On

    Ableton Tips & Techniques

    We get tactile with Ableton Live’s 64 Pad Drum Rack.

    Techniques Oct 2015
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    Pull The Plug-In

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Tidy away unused instruments and effects and put your favourites within easy reach with Logic’s Plug-in Manager.

    Techniques Oct 2015
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    Independent Beats

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    Cut the cord and make music with just your laptop and Reason.

    Techniques Oct 2015

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