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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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    Clip Gain

    The Secret To Smooth Vocal Control

    Most DAWs give you the power to control the volume of recorded audio on a per‑clip level — and with this power comes immense creative potential!

    Techniques Sep 2023
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    Logic Pro: Mixing In Atmos

    Apple Logic Pro Tips & Techniques

    We show you how to get started in the brave new world of Dolby Atmos, using Logic Pro.

    Techniques Jun 2022
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    Audient unveils ARC - The Creative Hub

    Hardware makers give away £500 of software for free to all users

    Console and audio interface makers Audient have teamed up with some of the industry’s leading innovators — including...

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    Q. How can I export a Pro Tools project for mixing in Reaper?

    My band tracked some songs at a local studio using their Pro Tools rig and I want to mix the tracks at home in Reaper.

    Sound Advice Jul 2015
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    Creative Editing

    Tips & Techniques

    Whether it's getting rid of the audio you don't want or improving the audio you do want, skilled editing can be the key to making your multitrack project sound polished.

    Techniques Feb 2011
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    Audio Editing In DAWs

    Tips & Techniques

    Today's multitrack software packages give us endless flexibility to manipulate the audio we've recorded, but the possibilities can be confusing to begin with. We introduce the tools of the audio editor's trade...

    Techniques Feb 2011
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    Pro-gaming Techniques For Pro Tools

    Starcraft Players of South Korea

    The Starcraft players of South Korea are the ultimate computer power users, and their skills and strategies have the potential to transform your DAW sessions.

    Techniques Jun 2010
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    Q. How can I use side-chains in Steinberg Cubase SX?

    In Cubase SX, can signals be 'routed' to a compressor's side-chain to modulate another signal?

    Sound Advice Sep 2005
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    A metronome.

    Using Tempo Changes

    Sequencing Tips

    All modern sequencers make it easy to enhance your arrangements with subtle tempo variations, but these facilities are often ignored.

    Techniques Nov 2002
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    Magic Logic.

    Surround Sound Explained: Part 9

    Surround In Your DAW

    In this final part of our series, we look at how the major project studio-oriented MIDI + Audio sequencers (DAWs) currently handle surround.

    Techniques Apr 2002
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