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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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    The Final Act

    Ableton Live Tips & Techniques

    Get your mix ready for mastering in Live.

    Techniques Feb 2015
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    Working Late

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Latency can be a nightmare in digital recording. Here’s how to keep on top of it in Pro Tools.

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    Perfect Harmony

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Learn how to create vocal harmony parts and doubling effects using Flex Pitch and Logic’s vocoder plug–in.

    Techniques Jan 2015
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    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Here's how to set up your own hardware–controlled channel strip in Cubase.

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    Strung Out

    Ableton Live Tips & Techniques

    We get plucky with Ableton Live’s Tension instrument.

    Techniques Jan 2015
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    Perfect Harmony | Media

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    Learn how to create vocal harmony parts and doubling effects using Flex Pitch and Logic’s vocoder plug–in.

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    Techniques Jan 2015
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    Normal Service

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Pro Tools acting funny? Chances are you’ve just changed playback mode by accident.

    Techniques Jan 2015
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    Automation Action

    Reaper Tips & Techniques

    Get to grips with Reaper’s range of automation facilities.

    Techniques Jan 2015
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    Improve Your Groove

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    We look at ReGroove and the new quantise features in Reason 8.

    Techniques Jan 2015
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    Need For Speed

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Become a Sonar ninja with these time-saving tips.

    Techniques Jan 2015
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    Freaky Filter | Media

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    If you’re in search of novel effects in Studio One, fire up the Autofilter plug-in!

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    Techniques Jan 2015
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    Freaky Filter

    Studio One Tips & Techniques

    If you’re in search of novel effects in Studio One, fire up the Autofilter plug-in!

    Techniques Jan 2015

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