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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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    Reason: Delaying Tactics

    Reason Notes & Techniques

    Build sophisticated multi-tap and modulated delay treatments using Reasons flexible devices.

    Techniques Feb 2010
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    Reason: Productivity Boosts

    Reason Notes & Techniques

    Boost your Reason productivity with indispensable keyboard shortcuts that make everyday jobs quicker and easier.

    Techniques Jan 2010
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    Reason To Record

    Reason Notes & Techniques

    We help you to bring your old Reason songs into the Record era.

    Techniques Nov 2009
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    Running Reason And Ableton Live Together

    Reason Notes / Ableton Live Notes

    Reason and Ableton Live work well together — we offer some tips on running the two programs in parallel.

    Techniques Sep 2009
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    Make A Modular Synth In Reason

    Reason Notes & Techniques

    Not only can Reason's Thor synth be used as an effects unit for other signals, it can also act as a hub for combining instruments and devices into true modular synth structures.

    Techniques May 2009
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    Reason: Parallel Compression

    Reason Notes & Techniques

    If you want the impact of heavily compressed drums but dont want to sacrifice your dynamics, parallel compression is the way to go. This month we explore the best ways to achieve this effect in Reason.

    Techniques Mar 2009
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    Reason ReGroove: Getting Your Groove On

    Reason Notes & Techniques

    Think computer music's got no soul? Think again! Join us as we explore Reason's ReGroove mixer...

    Techniques Dec 2008
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    Side-chain Compression In Reason

    Reason Notes & Techniques

    Side-chain compression can be the difference between a flat, lifeless mix and an adrenalised floor-filler. Learn how to capture the French house sound, and add an extra little twist.

    Techniques Sep 2008
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    Reason 4's New Sequencer

    Reason Notes & Techniques

    Reason 4's overhauled sequencer is now more powerful but has caused head-scratching amongst users. If you're one of the confused, read on...

    Techniques Jul 2008
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    Reason 4: Advanced Arpeggiation

    Reason Notes & Techniques

    Delving beneath the surface of Reason 4's new RPG8 arpeggiator reveals a treasure trove of rhythmic modulations and variations.

    Techniques Apr 2008
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    More Thor In Reason 4

    Reason Notes & Techniques

    Following last month's introduction to the Thor synthesizer, we embark on a patch-building project and explore several of the key features of Reason 4's new synth...

    Techniques Jan 2008
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    The Thor Synthesizer In Reason 4

    Reason Notes & Techniques

    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.

    Techniques Dec 2007
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    DIY Effects In Reason

    Reason Notes & Techniques

    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...

    Techniques Oct 2007
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    Reason: Making The Most Of The Mixer

    Reason Notes & Techniques

    We go back to basics this month, with an in-depth look at how you can get the best out of Reason's Remix mixer.

    Techniques Aug 2007
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    Creative Clip Launching In Ableton Live

    Ableton Live Notes & Techniques

    Clip Launch modes and Follow Actions are two of the most powerful and creative feature sets for composing and performing with Live, but they're also among the least well known. Let's investigate...

    Techniques Jul 2007
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    Reason's Matrix Pattern Sequencer

    Hints & Tips

    To analogue synth fanatics, the Matrix Pattern Sequencer is one of the highlights of Reason's toolbox.

    Techniques Jul 2007
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    Exploring Reason's BV512 Vocoder

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    Reason's BV512 is pretty sophisticated as vocoders go, and is capable of much more than Sparky's Magic Piano-style voice effects. Find out more...

    Techniques May 2007
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    Hacking Remote Files In Reason

    Reason Notes & Techniques

    If Remote support has not been added for your favourite MIDI controller, consider doing it yourself.

    Techniques Mar 2007
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    Using Reason Live: Part 3

    Live Looping With Dr:Rex

    This month we look at a Combinator building project that allows you to mix and manipulate loops on the fly.

    Techniques Feb 2007
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    Using Reason Live: Part 2

    Live Electronic Performance

    In the second part in our series, we're exploring ways to use Reason in a live electronica performance, laptop DJ set or jam session.

    Techniques Dec 2006
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    Using Reason Live: Part 1

    Replacing A Live Keyboard Rig

    In the first part of a mini-series on using Reason live, we look at how the Combinator and MIDI remote control can replace a live keyboard rig.

    Techniques Nov 2006

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