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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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    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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    Stuck In The MIDI

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Get to grips with Sonar’s latest MIDI editing tools.

    Techniques Oct 2015
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