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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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    David Mellor

    Gain Staging - Episode 3 | Podcast

    Preparation for your mix

    In this third episode David continues looking at preamps, outlines the use of VU meters, and explains the benefits of balancing a track prior to mixing.

    Techniques Aug 2023
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    David Mellor

    Gain Staging - Episode 2 | Podcast

    The Recording Stage

    In the second episode David Mellor focuses on gain staging during recording, by balancing mic input, preamps and gain within your DAW to achieve the optimal sound level.

    Techniques Jul 2023
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    David Mellor

    Gain Staging - Episode 1 | Podcast

    Three Golden Rules

    David Mellor introduces us to Gain Staging in a brand new series of podcasts. In this first episode he explains the correct use of terminology and gives his three golden rules of Gain Staging.

    Techniques Jun 2023
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    Rode Connect

    Free podcasting app from Rode

    New app works with NT-USB Mini desktop mic

    Rode Connect works with Rode's NT-USB Mini microphones, and can accommodate up to six guests simultaneously.

    News
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    Q. How do I set my DAW levels to match my hardware?

    Follow-up

    Technical Editor Hugh Robjohns: In last month’s SOS we printed a query derived from the SOS...

    Sound Advice Sep 2016
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    Q. How do I set my DAW levels to match my hardware?

    My outboard equalisers have no level or peak indicator, what would be the correct way to output the signal from my DAW (Logic) via an RME Fireface 800 audio interface?

    Sound Advice Aug 2016
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    XllIqoyc6P8.jpg

    NI iMaschine 2 intros 3D Touch support

    Create full tracks on-the-go with arranger, step sequencing, chord and arp modes

    Native Instruments have today introduced iMaschine 2 – the follow up to their acclaimed beat making...

    News
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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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    Gain-staging: software VU meters.

    Gain Staging In Your DAW Software

    Level Headed

    Despite the immense power and flexibility available in modern DAW software, many people still find that the mixes they craft entirely 'in the box' sound unsatisfying. Why is that?

    Techniques Sep 2013
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