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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.

Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 items
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    Cubase's Track Lanes & Track Versions

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Cubase’s Track Lanes system is great for speedy comping, but Track Versions brings plenty more to the party...

    Techniques Dec 2014
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    Get Glitched | Media

    Audio files to accompany the article.

    These files accompany Cubase Technique article in the November 2014 issue.

    Techniques Nov 2014
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    Get Glitched

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Cubase has all the tools you need to add vocal glitching effects to your pop or EDM tracks.

    Techniques Nov 2014
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    VCA OK | Media

    Audio files to accompany the article.

    The ZIP file of the Cubase 7.5 project template.

    Techniques Oct 2014
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    VCA OK

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    I’ve long wished Steinberg would implement true VCA–style automation in Cubase — it is, for me, a critical...

    Techniques Oct 2014
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    Get Pitch Quick! - Media

    Audio files to accompany the article.

    Cubase's built-in VariAudio pitch processor isn't just for vocals...

    Techniques Sep 2014
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    Get Pitch Quick!

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Cubase's built-in VariAudio pitch processor isn't just for vocals...

    Techniques Sep 2014
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    The Big Squeeze

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Make your Cubase mixes pack more punch with master‑bus compression.

    Techniques Aug 2014
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    Spread Of Heaven

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Make full use of your speakers with these stereo enhancement tips for Cubase.

    Techniques Jul 2014
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    Control Freak

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Cubase offers several different ways to take advantage of your master keyboard's knobs, buttons and faders.

    Techniques Apr 2014
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    Vari Ability

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Perfect your vocal pitch-correction techniques with Cubase's VariAudio.

    Techniques Mar 2014
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    Dubstep Drums | Media

    Audio files to accompany the article.

    Techniques Jan 2014
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    Dubstep Drums

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Dodge & Fuski's Rob Talbott explains how he creates the band's dubstep drum beats in Cubase.

    Techniques Jan 2014
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