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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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    Freq Out!

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Let's assume you've recorded and edited your next hit single in Cubase, and now you'd like to construct a mix whose instruments go hand in hand...

    Techniques Sep 2013
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    Stereo Lab

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    Spruce up your soundstage with DP8's new Ensemble Chorus and Spatial Maximizer plug-ins.

    Techniques Sep 2013
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    Stereo Lab | Media

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    Audio files to accompany the article.

    Techniques Sep 2013
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    Gain-staging: software VU meters.

    Gain Staging In Your DAW Software

    Level Headed

    Despite the immense power and flexibility available in modern DAW software, many people still find that the mixes they craft entirely 'in the box' sound unsatisfying. Why is that?

    Techniques Sep 2013
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    Simpler Pleasures

    Live Tips & Techniques

    Simple and sophisticated sampling are both on offer with Live's Simpler and Sampler instruments.

    Techniques Sep 2013
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    Fix It In The R-Mix | Media

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Audio files to accompany the article.

    Techniques Sep 2013
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    Setting The Screen

    Reaper Tips & Techniques

    Discover Reaper's powerful Screensets feature for faster editing.

    Techniques Sep 2013
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    Fix It In The R-Mix

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Sonar's R-Mix VST plug-in is a DAW-optimised version of Roland's R-Mix software, which isolates audio based on frequency range and stereo positioning

    Techniques Sep 2013
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    Character Reference

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    Reason has plenty of tricks up its sleeve for adding character and warmth to a mix.

    Techniques Sep 2013
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