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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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    Working With Video

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    We take a look at building tempo maps for writing to picture in Cubase, using Markers, Time Warping and the Process Tempo command.

    Techniques Dec 2005
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    Streamlining Your Ableton Live Workflow

    Live Tips & Techniques

    We begin this regular column on using Ableton Live by examining how you can increase your productivity whilst using the program as a writing tool.

    Techniques Dec 2005
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    Mixing Live Recordings In Logic

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Mixing live band recordings within Logic presents a unique set of challenges, so we show you how to get great results with the minimum hassle.

    Techniques Dec 2005
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    Using Digital Performer With External Hardware

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    Few of us use our software sequencers in isolation — we all need associated hardware, such as monitors, external effects, and favourite MIDI synths. This month we take a look at using DP with such hardware.

    Techniques Dec 2005
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    Advanced Timing Correction

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    We all know that Beat Detective can be used to fix up dodgy drumming. But how about creating a tempo map from a freely played keyboard part? Or replacing a piano track with note-for-note accuracy? You can achieve amazing results when you know how...

    Techniques Dec 2005
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    Tuning Drum Loops In Reason

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    Can't quite get your Reason rhythm section kicking with the rest of the track? If you've never considered tuning your drum samples and loops to help create a tight and harmonious mix, now may be the time to try it...

    Techniques Dec 2005
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    Improved MIDI Functions In Sonar 5

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Cakewalk have strengthened the MIDI side of Sonar 5 considerably, in recognition of the rise of software synths that benefit from enhanced MIDI controllability. We run through some of the new features and suggest how you might want to use them...

    Techniques Dec 2005
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    Working With Video In Cubase SX/SL

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Since its SX reincarnation three years ago, Cubase has once again become one of the most flexible tools for writing music to picture. Let's investigate...

    Techniques Nov 2005
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    ESX24 Sample Manager

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    More tips and news from the world of Apple Logic.

    Techniques Nov 2005
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    Using Hardware Controllers With Logic

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Not everyone can afford to invest in a dedicated high-spec hardware controller such as Logic Control. However, you can use even the most humble of MIDI devices to control your mixer, software synths, and plug-ins instead.

    Techniques Nov 2005
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    Fixing DP & Rewire Glitches

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    We've got news of some interesting new plug-ins this month, and the solution to one of those software compatibility problems that can drive you bananas...

    Techniques Nov 2005
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    Using V-Racks In Digital Performer 4.6

    Digital Performer Tips & Techniques

    One of the most exciting and unexpected new features unveiled in Digital Performer 4.6 is V-Racks, and, like many of the best things in life, it's something you probably didn't realise you needed until it came along...

    Techniques Nov 2005
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    Digiworld 2005; Pro Tools 7

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Once again, there's a bumper crop of news from Digi-world to report, including the long-awaited jump to version 7 of Pro Tools.

    Techniques Nov 2005
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    Managing iLok Plug-in Licences

    Sound Advice

    There can't be many Pro Tools users left who have not had to invest in an iLok key in order to run their favourite plug-ins. But did you know that you can insure, transfer and even buy and sell iLok plug-in licences electronically? Find out more...

    Techniques Nov 2005
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    ReBirth & Reason

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    ReBirth is dead. Long live ReBirth! We discuss the decision to discontinue this pioneering software and discover how Reason users can keep its spirit alive.

    Techniques Nov 2005
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    Sonar Notes

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    When the version number's most significant digit increments, you know something big is going to happen — what's inside Version 5?

    Techniques Nov 2005
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    Mastering Reason 3 Mixes

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    Reason 3 has several new tools for pumping up final mixes and creating that 'finished product' sound.

    Techniques Nov 2005
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    Sonar's Dreamstation Soft Synth

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    This modest little soft synth has been bundled with Sonar since version 1.0 and is very kind to your CPU resources, yet many Sonar users are still unaware of just how much you can squeeze out of it. We present some evidence.

    Techniques Nov 2005
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    MIDI Tracks & Keyboard Functions

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    We look at how to use the facilities available to Cubase's MIDI tracks to recreate certain master keyboard functions.

    Techniques Oct 2005
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    Tempo Maps For Pre-Recorded Audio

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Sometimes the click can steal the life from a session, so why not start with a live performance?

    Techniques Oct 2005
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    AUPitch: Better Pitch-shifting?

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    The new Tiger AUPitch plug-in promises better pitch-shifting performance, but does it deliver in practice?

    Techniques Oct 2005

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