DAWs

Early notes, late notes, stacked notes... There's a range of problems that could stem from MIDI timing issues — but fortunately we have solutions to offer.

Propellerhead's Reason software studio offers some great instruments and makes a good partner for DP - but there are various things to be aware of if you want to create the most hassle-free partnership. Our in-depth look at using the two applications together explains it all.

Many Logic users have external hardware processors and effects units, which can easily be used inside projects. Read on to find out how...

We've all been in that situation — desperate to add one more plug-in, but with a computer on the verge of collapse. We explain how to wring that last ounce of power from your Pro Tools rig.

There's a lot to get to grips with in the latest version of Reason — but we begin by looking at the basics of the giant new semi-modular synthesizer, Thor.

Cubase's audio warp facilities provide a powerful toolkit for manipulating the timing of recorded audio to fit grids and grooves.

We take a look at how MOTU's new MachFive 2 sampler integrates with Digital Performer 5, explore a DP plug-in that makes it easier to work with MIDI controllers, and round up the customary batch of news and tips for DP users.

Track freezing makes it possible to create much larger projects, and collaborate with other Live users who have different plug-ins, all without cramping your style.

Logic's built-in EXS24 sampler is a powerful tool for playing realistic instruments, but dig a little deeper and you'll also find unlimited potential for sound design.

With Sonar 7 just out, it's time to tweak all our preferences to perfection, before they're transferred over into the latest version of the software.

Reverb and delay are vital tools for mixing. We explain how to get the best from Cubase's bundled plug-ins.

DP supports a wide range of plug-in and virtual instrument formats, which is great for flexibility and variety but sometimes not so good when it comes to trouble-free operation. We explain how to take the pain out of plug-in management.

In sound for picture, there's often a need to lock multiple Pro Tools rigs together. We uncover a neat way to obtain professional sync facilities for a fraction of the price of conventional systems.

Reason 4 may be nearly upon us, but there's still plenty of experimenting to be done in version 3 - creating your own effects devices, for example...

Working directly with 'objects', such as MIDI or audio clips of any length from a few milliseconds upwards, opens up a non-linear approach that can provide creative opportunities and also save you CPU resources.

It's now possible to carry out most of your audio editing exclusively in one Logic window. We take a look at the improved Arrange window functionality and discover how it can transform your editing experience.

DP's native Sound Designer II audio format can carry region information within files. That fact may not sound especially significant — but with the help of our guide you can use it to help you compile and burn CDs quickly and easily.

Cubase is packed with as much functionality as Doctor Who's TARDIS for bending the laws of time, and while the basics are easy, it pays to explore a little deeper.

Whether you're looking into performing with Live on stage, or laying down fast arrangements in the studio, the place to start is the mixer's cue-mixing and crossfading features.

Making the most of your virtual instruments in Logic can involve some complex Environment trickery, but the results are rewarding.

If you've time enough to install it all, the extra software bundled with new Pro Tools systems has a lot to offer — particularly if you have the Pro version of Digidesign's Ignition Pack 2.