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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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    Pro Tools: Extracting Tempo/Timing From A Recording

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Last month we looked at using Pro Tools' Beat Detective tool for chopping up and quantising drum recordings. Now it's time to explore the other side of the coin: extracting and using the tempo and timing of a recording.

    Techniques Sep 2003
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    Sonar Notes

    This month, using markers for navigation, getting the most from the piano roll view, and undertaking pseudo-mastering in Cakewalk's Sonar.

    Techniques Sep 2003
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    Q. What's the difference between Detect Silence and Hitpoints in Cubase?

    Cubase SX has a Detect Silence feature and a Hitpoints feature that seem to me like they do pretty much the same thing. Are they different, and when should I use them?

    Sound Advice Sep 2003
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    Pro Tools: Using Beat Detective

    The groundbreaking Beat Detective module in TDM Pro Tools systems offers some hugely powerful tools for manipulating the timing of recorded audio. This month we start by quantising audio material.

    Techniques Aug 2003
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    Drag Techniques/Backing Up In Sonar

    Sonar Notes

    It's not a drag to drag-and-drop, nor is it a drag to export your way to a truly universal backup solution. Craig Anderton explains all...

    Techniques Aug 2003
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    Surround Sound in SX & Nuendo

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Both SX and Nuendo offer plenty of scope for recording and mixing in surround sound formats...

    Techniques Aug 2003
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    v6 Project Manager

    Logic Notes

    The Project Manager is one of Logic's most useful v6 features, and this month we show you how it can work in different ways to suit your needs.

    Techniques Aug 2003
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    DP3 & Multiple Audio Interfaces; Waveform Editor

    Digital Performer Notes

    This month we take a look at using multiple audio interfaces with DP3, the new OS X patchlist format, and practical uses for the Waveform Editor for all DP users.

    Techniques Aug 2003
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    Cubase's Macro Facility

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    This month we take another look at Cubase's Macro facility and discuss a selection of examples for adding some rather neat features to the program.

    Techniques Jul 2003
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    Construct Your Own Logic Matrix Sequencer

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Re-live the hardware of the early synth pioneers, as we show you how to construct your very own matrix sequencer in the Environment.

    Techniques Jul 2003
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    Freeze Tracks; AUs; Audio Hijack Pro; Rax

    Digital Performer Notes

    More on DP4 and OS X, including the new 'Freeze Tracks' feature...

    Techniques Jul 2003
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    Digital Audio Clocking In Pro Tools

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    The subject of clocking in digital audio systems is often a hazy area of understanding among us users, perhaps because we've been turned off by propellerheads who love arguing about it. Here's what you need to know in Pro Tools from a practical angle.

    Techniques Jul 2003
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    Sonar: Hidden Sources Of Distortion

    Cakewalk Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Track down hidden sources of distortion, make your audio playback more reliable, and manage your window Layouts.

    Techniques Jul 2003
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    Cubase SX/SL: Marker Track

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Navigating complex arrangements can often be frustrating, but by taking advantage of Cubase's Marker Track, you can easily define a structure to simplify the process.

    Techniques Jun 2003
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    Meta Messages In Logic

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Meta Messages are some of the most powerful and arcane features in Logic. But what are they, and why are they so useful?

    Techniques Jun 2003
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    Digital Performer For OS X

    MOTU Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    At last, Digital Performer for OS X is a reality. But does it offer any real advantages over the previous version, and more importantly, what compromises are 'cutting edge' users going to have to make?

    Techniques Jun 2003
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    Pro Tools: Mixer Snapshots & Automation Data

    Practical Tips & Techniques

    More automation tips, including how to create and use mixer 'snapshots', a few special editing hints, and an in-depth look at how Pro Tools handles automation data.

    Techniques Jun 2003
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    Removing Clicks With Crossfades In Sonar

    Cakewalk Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Can't get rid of clicks when comping takes? You need to learn how to crossfade, and here's how... plus plenty of other Sonar-related tips.

    Techniques Jun 2003
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    Soundscape Masterclass: Part 1

    Power User Tips For Soundscape Workstations

    We show how you can use well-known Soundscape features in unusual manners, plus more in-depth explanation of some specific Soundscape functions, including details of how to use VST and Direct X plug-ins to process Soundscape audio.

    Techniques Jun 2003
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    Cubase's Logical Editor Window

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    The Logical Editor window is a powerful way to process MIDI data in Cubase, although it can often appear daunting to new users. What's more, it provides excuses for writers to dust off their Mr Spock quotes.

    Techniques May 2003
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    Logic: Avoiding Processing Delays

    Emagic Logic Tips & Techniques

    There are various places in a Logic-based studio where processing delays occur, and these can really mess with the groove of your tracks, so here we show you how to keep everything properly lined up. Also, there's the usual sackful of user tips and a clever way for v5 users to mimic one of the most useful features in v6.

    Techniques May 2003

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