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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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    Liven Up Your Drum Loops, Part 2

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    We introduce even more ways to spice up your drum loops in Cubase. • Read Part 1 • Read Part 3

    Techniques Oct 2011
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    Using Software Synths & Samplers

    MOTU Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    This month, how to use software synths and samplers effectively in your DP projects.

    Techniques Oct 2011
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    Live Lessons

    Ableton Live Notes

    We show you how to document your projects, sets and custom devices with Live’s Lessons facility.

    Techniques Oct 2011
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    Space Cadet

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Cure those conflicting frequencies and create some space with Logic’s Match EQ.

    Techniques Oct 2011
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    Pro Tools 9 — What's New?

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    New to Pro Tools 9? Here’s how to get the best from all the features that were HD‑only until now!

    Techniques Oct 2011
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    Cockos Reaper 4

    Digital Audio Workstation Software

    Cockos’ affordable DAW is now more customisable than ever, and there are valuable new features for media management, MIDI editing and surround mixing too.

    Reviews Oct 2011
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    Reason 6

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    Version 6 is a new dawn for Reason users. This month, we offer some essential techniques for getting up to speed with it.

    Techniques Oct 2011
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    Pitch Transposition In Sonar X1

    Sonar Notes

    Understand the pitch-changing options in Sonar X1 for better results with your audio.

    Techniques Oct 2011
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