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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 - 12 of 12 items

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    Apple Logic: Back To Basics

    Logic Notes

    Whether you're an experienced or a novice Logic user, going back to the beginning might show you a thing or two.

    Techniques Dec 2010
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    Dubstep Secrets

    Apple Logic Tips & Techniques

    Create a dubstep bass sound using the ES2 synthesizer and Logic's effects.

    Techniques Nov 2010
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    Dubstep Secrets | Media

    Apple Logic Tips & Techniques

    Audio files to accompany the article.

    Techniques Nov 2010
  • link

    Logic | Visual Basics

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    If you ever intend to make music to complement visuals, youll need to know the basics of working with video content in Logic Pro.

    Techniques Sep 2010
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    Logic Import: Recycle & Re-use

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    We show you how to easily re-use elements of older projects with Logics powerful import capabilities.

    Techniques Aug 2010
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    Perfect Vocals in Logic

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    With recent revisions to the Take feature, Logic Pro 9 now has all the tools you need to craft the perfect vocal track.

    Techniques Jul 2010
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    Apple Logic: Pedal Power

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    You can get the amp and stomp-box collection youve always wanted now that Logic offers Pedalboard and Amp Designer.

    Techniques Jun 2010
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    Apple Logic: Building An Arpreggiator

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    Everyone loves an arpeggiator, and building one in Logic is not only easier than you might think, but also helps you hone your Environment skills...

    Techniques May 2010
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    Logic Pro: Getting The Most Out Of Sculpture

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    Put your own stamp on synthesized sounds with Logic Pro's powerful sound-modelling system, Sculpture.

    Techniques Apr 2010
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    Logic: Breaking Beats

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    Quickly and easily slice, rearrange and process breakbeats using some of the new facilities in Logic 9.

    Techniques Mar 2010
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    Exporting Logic Multitrack Files

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    There are sure to be times when you need to export multitrack Logic files to other platforms. We explain the options.

    Techniques Feb 2010
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    Logic: Audio Output Formats

    Logic Notes & Techniques

    For every destination you might have for your mix, theres a correct audio output format. We explain the options.

    Techniques Jan 2010
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