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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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    MIDI Controllers

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Even a handful of knobs and sliders on a MIDI master keyboard are enough to give you hands-on control of your Cubase mix.

    Techniques Dec 2010
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    Digital Performer 7.2

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    DP's latest version brings the ability to change the look and feel of the program. We find out how, and explore other additions in DP 7.2.

    Techniques Dec 2010
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    Ableton Beat Repeat Plug-in

    Ableton Live Tips & Techniques

    We show you the most modest of feats: a wonderful way of repeating your beats.

    Techniques Dec 2010
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    Apple Logic: Back To Basics

    Logic Notes

    Whether you're an experienced or a novice Logic user, going back to the beginning might show you a thing or two.

    Techniques Dec 2010
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    Super Conductors

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Pro Tools' rulers not only show the passage of time, they allow you to control it!

    Techniques Dec 2010
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    Master EQ Plug-in

    Reaper Tips & Techniques

    Discover the power of Reaper's EQ plug-in and become an EQ master in the process.

    Techniques Dec 2010
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    Block

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    Make light work of song arranging with Reason's new Blocks feature.

    Techniques Dec 2010
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    Managing Backups, Part 1

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    In the first of this two-part series, we look at the best ways to manage your day-to-day backups in Sonar.Read Part 2.

    Techniques Dec 2010
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    Level Meters

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Knowing how to interpret and act on Cubase's level meters can help you to make better mixes.

    Techniques Nov 2010
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    Live DJ'ing

    Ableton Live Tips & Techniques

    DJs can really get clever with Ableton Live. We explain how.

    Techniques Nov 2010
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    Dubstep Secrets

    Apple Logic Tips & Techniques

    Create a dubstep bass sound using the ES2 synthesizer and Logic's effects.

    Techniques Nov 2010
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    Dubstep Secrets | Media

    Apple Logic Tips & Techniques

    Audio files to accompany the article.

    Techniques Nov 2010
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    Making Monitor Mixes

    Digidesign (Avid) Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Like any hardware mixer, Pro Tools' Mixer can be used to give the musicians on your session exactly what they want...

    Techniques Nov 2010
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    Takes & Items

    Reaper Tips & Techniques

    We show you how to emulate Reason's Dr OctoRex loop player with Reaper's Takes and Items.

    Techniques Nov 2010
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    Time & Tempo Flexibility

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    We bring you up to speed on tempo flexibility and Reason 5's new transport bar.

    Techniques Nov 2010
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    Snapshot Effects Automation

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Snap it up! Transform your music with snapshot effects automation.

    Techniques Nov 2010
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    Parameter Modulation | Media

    Cockos Reaper Tips & Techniques

    These project files accompany the Reaper Technique column that featured in SOS October 2010.

    Techniques Oct 2010
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    Project Templates

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Creating your own project templates is one of those useful housekeeping jobs you can do when you’re in a less creative mood.

    Techniques Oct 2010
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    Improving Audio MIDI Setup

    MOTU Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    Digital Performer version 7.1 has been out for a while, but we're still feeling the love for some of its new features...

    Techniques Oct 2010
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    Follow Actions

    Ableton Live Tips & Techniques

    We explore a cunning workaround to enhance Ableton Live's already powerful 'Follow Actions' feature.

    Techniques Oct 2010
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    A Logical Reason

    Logic and reason dont just form the basis of rational thought — they also make for inspired composition...

    Techniques Oct 2010

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