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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: Matrix Magic

    Sonar Notes & Techniques

    We explain some of the tricks and composition methods opened up by Sonar 8.5s new Matrix view.

    Techniques Dec 2009
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    Optimum Vocals with VX64 Vocal Strip

    Sonar Notes & Techniques

    Sonar 8.5s VX64 Vocal Strip offers new possibilities for vocal processing.

    Techniques Nov 2009
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    Sonar: Punchy Percussion with PX64

    Sonar Notes & Techniques

    Get to grips with Sonars brand-new PX64 percussion strip, which offers all the processors you need for treating drums.

    Techniques Oct 2009
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    Sonar: Making A Virtual Drum Room

    Sonar Notes & Techniques

    Sampled drums lacking realism? Synthesize stereo room mics to add authentic ambience with Sonars built-in effects.

    Techniques Sep 2009
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    Sonar: Bigger Beats

    Sonar Notes & Techniques

    Get a big, produced sound from Sonars classic analogue drumbox samples.

    Techniques Aug 2009
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    Sonar: Stereo Tools

    Sonar Notes & Techniques

    If youre interested in M/S (Mid/Side) recording or stereo image tweaks, Sonars Channel Tools could be your best friend.

    Techniques Jul 2009
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    Exploring Sonar 8’s Dimension Pro Synthesizer

    Sonar Notes & Techniques

    Now that Dimension Pro is included with Sonar 8, its time to investigate how to exploit it beyond the usual sample-playback functions.

    Techniques Jun 2009
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    Sonar: Integrating External Hardware With Your DAW

    Sonar Notes & Techniques

    Is it time to lighten the load on your CPU and put that outboard signal processing hardware to work inside your DAW? We explain how...

    Techniques Apr 2009
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    Using REX Files in Sonar 8

    Sonar Notes & Techniques

    Sonar has more facilities than the average DAW for exploiting REX files to their best advantage. We guide you through where to find those facilities and how to put them to use.

    Techniques Mar 2009
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    Exploring Sonar 8's Beatscape Instrument

    Sonar Notes & Techniques

    Sonar 8 introduced Beatscape, a new Cakewalk instrument designed specifically for the groovily inclined. We dig behind the interface for some tips and tricks you won't find in the documentation.

    Techniques Jan 2009
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