DAWs

We look at the possibility of DSD higher-quality audio support in Cubase, a plug-in to help you write ringtones for Nokia phones, and a new patch for Windows users of Cubase SX/SL 3.02.

We take a look at the concepts of audio files, clips, events, parts and regions in Cubase, and explain how you can manage these objects in the Pool window.

This month sees a high-quality, free EQ plug-in gracing the Digirack suite, some intriguing options for collaboration via the Internet, and a host of updates.

Most people find that learning keyboard commands for their DAW enables them to get things done faster, and for the advanced user, Pro Tools has a special mode which turns the entire QWERTY keyboard into a bank of one-press shortcuts.

Combining Logic's Catch and Link modes can greatly increase the usefulness of multi-window Screensets, but it is not always clear, especially to new users, how the various options work.

This month: new Refills and tweaking techniques for Reason v3, plus the usual haul of time-saving tips.

Astonishingly, Reason is now over four years old! Version 3 adds performance-enhancing features and mastering facilities, losing only Mac OS 9 support on the way. We bring you the first UK review of the full release version.

It's time to address the Studio versus Producer question, as well as looking into a new Sonar remote-control option.

The audio sequencing facilities we have at our disposal these days make it easier than ever before to produce world-class vocal recordings by taking the best parts from a series of takes and producing a composite from them. Here's how to do the job in Sonar 4.

If you are attracted by the idea of Linux and open-source music software, but put off by the thought of installing it on your PC, there is another way: a bootable CD-ROM containing both the OS and all the software you need, ready to go.

Although intended as an entry-level application to introduce new people to computer-based music making, Apple's GarageBand has received acclaim from beginners and professionals alike. We look at version 2, which adds score editing, multitrack audio recording, and more...

Steinberg originally introduced the concept of Folder tracks in Cubase VST, as a way of organising the track list in the Arrange window. This month we look at how this feature became even more powerful in Cubase SX, and how to make the most of it.

We explain how to tweak your tracks with MOTU's answer to Sony's Oxford EQ and speed up your workflow with the essential DP keyboard shortcut selection!

We bring you all the latest news from the Digidesign universe...

Whatever computer recording system you use, the chances are it's going to fall over sooner or later, and Pro Tools is no exception. So before you call the technical support line, take a look at Sound On Sound's guide to diagnosing and fixing the most common faults.

Sidechains are usually associated with effects processing, but they are also available in many of Logic's internal soft synths. So what can you do with them?

MOTU hinted at even more additions to DP during January 2005's NAMM show. We get a sneak preview, as well as exploring the program's Tempo Analysis powers.

Flagship sequencer apps are so packed with features that it could almost be a full-time job learning the package of your choice. If your needs are simpler, why not make it easy on yourself and investigate one of many options that are more entry-level or cut-down, yet still remarkably capable?

We've got a lot to look forward to with the imminent release of Reason v3, but there's still a world of exploration available in v2.5 — so don't stop creating while you're waiting.

A quick look at the Project 5 update and news of Sonar's rewrite for 64-bit processors.

Cakewalk's Sonar makes an ideal pre-production tool for creating loops you can use in Ableton's Live sequencer. We explore some of the possibilities of the partnership.