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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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    Sonar v4: Workflow Improvements

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Not every new feature of Sonar 4 is a headline-grabber — there are many new facilities and tweaks to existing features that you might not initially notice, but which could make a big difference to your workflow.

    Techniques Dec 2004
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    Organising Tracks & Plug-ins In Sonar

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Organise your tracks with Sonar 4's Track Folder feature, nudge them into place with sample accuracy, and reclaim older plug-ins for use in newer versions of Sonar.

    Techniques Nov 2004
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    How To Remote Control Sonar Effects

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    We explain how to use the handy Scrub tool, how to customise your track view, and detail the procedure for setting up remote control of Sonar effects parameters.

    Techniques Oct 2004
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    Using Storm With Sonar

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    We bring you yet more Sonar stratagems, including further adventures in envelope copying, some handy track tricks, and advice on using Arturia's Storm with Sonar.

    Techniques Sep 2004
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    Sonar: Using Pantheon Reverb & Clip Linking

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    This month, fun things to make and do with Lexicon's Pantheon reverb, plus how linking clips can make your life easier...

    Techniques Aug 2004
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    Using OMF To Transfer Sonar Files

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    We explain how to transfer projects between DAWs that speak OMF, and look at some clever envelope tricks.

    Techniques Jul 2004
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    Vocal Manipulation In Sonar

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    We investigate a new DXi option that makes vocal manipulation as easy as editing MIDI data. Plus the usual haul of Sonar power tips...

    Techniques Jun 2004
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    Loading REX Files... and more tips

    Sonar Notes

    Find out how to load REX files into Sonar, discover which digital audio editors work best with loops, and explore some useful envelope techniques.

    Techniques May 2004
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    Sonar and Multi-processor PCs

    Sonar Notes

    The latest Sonar update optimises the software for multi-processor PCs, as well as adding new operational features. Read on to find out what they'll mean to you, and explore another crop of tips and techniques.

    Techniques Apr 2004
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    Syncing VST Effects In Sonar

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Sync your VST effects perfectly with Sonar tempo, find out when snapshot is better than dynamic automation, and catch up with the latest Cakewalk software news.

    Techniques Mar 2004
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    Sonar's Hidden Useful Features

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    We're taking a break from examining Sonar 3 to look at some useful features, available in previous versions of Sonar, that we haven't yet covered in this regular column.

    Techniques Feb 2004
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    Sonar's Hidden EQ

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    This month, get the most out of your meters, locate that missing patch, beef up your bass, and discover the hidden EQ bands in your console.

    Techniques Jan 2004
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