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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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    Cubase: Transpose Track Tricks

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Cubase’s audio transpose features open up some interesting creative possibilities.

    Techniques Dec 2017
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    Modular Synthesis With Live

    Ableton Live Tips & Techniques

    We show you how you can treat Live as one big modular synth.

    Techniques Dec 2017
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    Spectral Editing In Reaper

    Cockos Reaper Tips & Techniques

    We help you get to grips with Reaper’s new spectral-editing functions.

    Techniques Dec 2017
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    Reason's Europa Synthesizer

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    We explore Reason’s new flagship synth: Europa.

    Techniques Dec 2017
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    Craft The Perfect Sonar Mix

    Cakewalk Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Craft the perfect mix in Sonar with these handy hints.

    Techniques Dec 2017
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    Studio One: Impact

    PreSonus Studio One Tips & Techniques

    Studio One’s Impact drum machine has hidden depths that are well worth exploring.

    Techniques Dec 2017
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    Cubase: Vocal Timing Correction

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Vocal perfection means timing correction — and Cubase’s AudioWarp gives you the tools you need.

    Techniques Nov 2017
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    Re-slicing Audio In Ableton Live

    Ableton Live Tips & Techniques

    We examine the creative possibilities of Re-slicing audio in Ableton Live.

    Techniques Nov 2017
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    Logic: Track Stacks & Smart Controls

    Apple Logic Pro Tips & Techniques

    Pair Track Stacks with Smart Controls to create unique layered instruments in Logic!

    Techniques Nov 2017
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    Harrison MixBus 4

    Music Production Software For Mac OS, Windows & Linux

    Harrison’s MixBus promises the sound and user experience of a large-format console, at approximately one-thousandth the price!

    Reviews Nov 2017
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    Pro Tools: Integrating Outboard

    Avid Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Bring a new dimension to your Pro Tools mixes by integrating outboard hardware.

    Techniques Nov 2017
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    Rhythm Selection

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Create custom kits with Sonar’s Session Drummer 3.

    Techniques Nov 2017
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    Studio One: Mai Tai's Modulation Matrix

    PreSonus Studio One Tips & Techniques

    Take advantage of Studio One’s versatile modulation features to make your synth parts more expressive.

    Techniques Nov 2017
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    Cubase: Create Arpeggios With Chord Pads

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    With only the most basic of keyboard skills, you can use Cubase to play convincing piano parts in real time.

    Techniques Oct 2017
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    Using Ableton Link

    Ableton Live Tips & Techniques

    We show you how Live and Reason can play together thanks to Ableton Link.

    Techniques Oct 2017
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    Perc Up: Logic Pro 10.3.2

    Apple Logic Pro Tips & Techniques

    Logic Pro 10.3.2 improves the DAW’s Drummer feature by adding new Percussionists to the mix.

    Techniques Oct 2017
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    Opening Old Pro Tools Sessions

    Avid Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    In theory, old Pro Tools sessions should open in version 12. In practice, you may need to know a few tricks!

    Techniques Oct 2017
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    Power Arranging In Reaper

    Cockos Reaper Tips & Techniques

    Reaper’s Region Playlists make it easy to sketch out new song structures or rework existing tracks.

    Techniques Oct 2017
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    Integrating Maschine With Reason

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    We show you how to integrate NI's Maschine with Reason.

    Techniques Oct 2017
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    Sonar TH3: Customise Your Guitar Tone

    Cakewalk Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Customise your guitar tone with Sonar’s TH3 Cakewalk Edition amp simulator.

    Techniques Oct 2017
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    Tempo Mapping With Melodyne In Studio One

    PreSonus Studio One Tips & Techniques

    Thanks to ARA, Studio One users have direct access to Melodyne’s amazing tempo-manipulation tools.

    Techniques Oct 2017

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