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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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    Control Room

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Manage multiple monitor mixes with Cubase’s Control Room.

    Techniques Apr 2012
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    Digital Performer In Windows?

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    It's a moment we thought would never happen: DP meets Windows...

    Techniques Apr 2012
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    Step Sequencing

    Ableton Live Tips & Techniques

    Setting up an old-fashioned step sequencer in Ableton Live is easy.

    Techniques Apr 2012
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    Future-proofing Using Backups

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Simply saving your project in Logic doesn't mean it's safe from harm. To future-proof your masterpieces, get to know your backup options.

    Techniques Apr 2012
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    Magix Samplitude Pro X

    Digital Audio Workstation Software

    Can its new look and feel, 64-bit code base and killer feature-set help Magix's heavyweight DAW muscle its way to a bigger market share?

    Reviews Apr 2012
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    M/S Mastery

    Reaper Tips & Techniques

    Learn some Mid/Sides tricks in Reaper to open up your options at mastering time.

    Techniques Apr 2012
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    M/S Mastery | Media

    Cockos Reaper Tips & Techniques

    Audio files to accompany the article.

    Techniques Apr 2012
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    Echo

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    Straight and vintage delays, ADT, psychedelia, glitch... Is there anything Reason's Echo device can't do?

    Techniques Apr 2012
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    Active Controller Technology (ACT)

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Dust off that hardware controller and make it your best friend in the studio, with this simple way of using Sonar's Active Controller Technology.

    Techniques Apr 2012
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    Spotlight: DAWs

    Digital Audio Workstations

    At the heart of most modern studios is a computer running a Digital Audio Workstation, or DAW. The choice of DAWs available has increased significantly over the last few years...

    Reviews Apr 2012
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