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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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    Sonar 4 loop envelopes.

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    Multiple Firewire Interfaces in Logic

    Logic Notes

    If you need to run multiple Firewire audio interfaces, you'll want to upgrade to the latest Tiger version of Logic. Read on...

    Techniques Sep 2005
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    DP: Powered Processing Options

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    Replacing Drums In Cubase SX

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    Apple Logic Express

    MIDI + Audio Sequencer [Mac OS X]

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    Reviews Aug 2005
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    Logic v7.1 Stability Issues

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    Techniques Aug 2005
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    Recording Electric Guitars In Logic

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    Techniques Aug 2005
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    Discwelder Bronze DVD-Audio Trial

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    Practical Groove Quantisation In Digital Performer

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    Comparing Audio Restoration Plug-ins In Pro Tools

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    Electromechanical Refill Updated

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    Using The Malström Synth In Reason

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    Sonar Tips & Techniques

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    Techniques Aug 2005
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    Making The Most Of EQ In Sonar v4

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

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    Techniques Aug 2005
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    Mackie Tracktion 2

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    Tracktion's designers have given the program a thorough overhaul and added some significant new features. But have they succeeded in retaining its freshness and ease of use?

    Reviews Aug 2005
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    Cakewalk Project 5 v2

    Virtual Studio [Windows]

    Cakewalk have rethought their Project 5 loop-sequencing application, adding features such as audio recording and a Groove Matrix for triggering patterns live — not to mention a virtual Roland sound module and a powerful new synth.

    Reviews Jul 2005
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    Automating Tasks In Cubase

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    We investigate an interesting script for exporting audio and look at the various options for automating tedious tasks in Cubase.

    Techniques Jul 2005
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    Test-driving Logic Pro v7.1

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Following on from our preview last month, we test-drive the new Logic Pro v7.1. Does it finally deliver what v7 promised?

    Techniques Jul 2005
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    Better Vocals In Logic

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Getting great recorded vocals can seem like rocket science, especially with all the complicated editing and processing tools that Logic now provides. So here we'll be giving you the advice you need to produce that big commercial sound.

    Techniques Jul 2005

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