You are here

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.

  • link

    Cakewalk Sonar lives!

    [Updated] BandLab Technologies to continue development of Cakewalk products

    [Updated 17.20, 23/02/18] BandLab Technologies — the company behind social music platform BandLab, as well as Rolling Stone magazine, Mono cases, Harmony Guitars and more — have today announced the acquisition of certain assets and the complete set of intellectual property of Cakewalk Inc.

    News
  • link

    Ableton Live 10 out now (Video)

    We get a demo of the new Wavetable synth

    We brought you news of the latest update to Ableton Live back in...

    News
  • link

    Using Cubase's MixConsole Rack

    Steinberg Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Manage effects and processors more efficiently in Cubase’s MixConsole.

    Techniques Feb 2018
  • link

    Using Digital Performer's Comp Tools

    MOTU Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    We explain how to use Digital Performer’s comping tools to assemble a killer vocal take.

    Techniques Feb 2018
  • link

    Ableton Live 10

    Music Production Software

    With Live 10, Ableton’s aim is to make the music‑making process as smooth as possible. Have they succeeded?

    Reviews Feb 2018
  • link

    Granular Synthesis In Ableton Live

    Ableton Live Tips & Techniques

    We examine three different ways to harness the power of granular synthesis in Live.

    Techniques Feb 2018
  • link

    Logic Pro X: Automation Tips

    Apple Logic Tips & Techniques

    We take a closer look at the automation features in Logic Pro X.

    Techniques Feb 2018
  • link

    Mastering Tips For Pro Tools

    Avid Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Pro Tools isn’t just for recording and mixing. It’s also pretty handy for mastering work.

    Techniques Feb 2018
  • link

    Reason's Synchronous Rack Extension

    Propellerhead Reason Tips & Techniques

    Propellerhead’s uber-modulator Synchronous is now included for free with Reason 10.

    Techniques Feb 2018
  • link

    Transferring Sonar Projects To A New DAW

    Cakewalk Sonar Tips & Techniques

    We show you how to transfer your projects from Sonar to a new DAW.

    Techniques Feb 2018
  • link

    Studio One: Duck Tales

    PreSonus Studio One Tips & Techniques

    Get your Studio One ducking techniques in a row as we explore different ways to improve vocal intelligibility.

    Techniques Feb 2018
Subscribe to RSS - DAWs