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 5

    MIDI + Audio Sequencer [Windows]

    The new version 5 sees Cakewalk's Sonar becoming a more complete production package than ever, with the addition of new synths, a convolution reverb, 64-bit support and Roland's celebrated Variphrase vocal processing technology.

    Reviews Dec 2005
  • link

    Ableton Live 5

    Loop-based Sequencer [Windows/Mac OS X]

    Ableton Live is one of the software success stories of the last few years, with devoted users in fields as diverse as DJing, remixing, theatre sound and music production. Version 5 addresses requests from all these areas, whilst retaining the program's renowned ease of use.

    Reviews Nov 2005
  • link

    Cakewalk Sonar Home Studio

    MIDI + Audio Sequencer [Windows]

    With Sonar Home Studio, Cakewalk have made the core features of their flagship sequencing application available at a bargain price.

    Reviews Nov 2005
  • link

    Apple Logic Express

    MIDI + Audio Sequencer [Mac OS X]

    Buying the Express version of Apple's Logic will save you a cool £500 over the full-blown Pro edition — and you'll still get a mighty powerful sequencer...

    Reviews Aug 2005
  • link

    Mackie Tracktion 2

    MIDI + Audio Sequencer [Windows/Mac OSX]

    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
  • link

    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
  • link

    Steinberg Nuendo 3

    Media Production System [Win/Mac OSX]

    Although it includes all the features of Steinberg's Cubase SX3 MIDI + Audio sequencer, Nuendo is targeted at the post-production market. To this end, the new version 3 includes features such as AAF import/export and integration with video editing systems.

    Reviews Jul 2005
  • link

    Pro Tools M-Powered

    Recording Software [Win/Mac OS X]

    For the first time ever, Digidesign's Pro Tools recording software is available as a stand-alone product, which can be used in conjunction with any of five audio interfaces from M-Audio.

    Reviews Jun 2005
  • link

    Merging Technologies Pyramix

    Digital Audio Workstation [Win PC]

    Pyramix might be the new kid on the block as far as audio recording and editing are concerned, but that hasn't stopped it quickly proving itself a very serious rival to Pro Tools and other established DAWs.

    Reviews Jun 2005
  • link

    Magix Samplitude Professional v8

    Digital Audio Workstation [Windows]

    The tools available in Magix's highly regarded recording package cover every stage of the recording process, from MIDI sequencing to mastering and CD burning. Version 8 adds some neat extras including analogue-style processors, a virtual drum machine and an Acid-style beat-mapping tool.

    Reviews Jun 2005
  • link

    Propellerhead Reason v3

    Virtual Electronic Studio [Mac OS X/PC]

    Astonishingly, Reason is now over four years old! Version 3 adds performance-enhancing features and mastering facilities, losing only Mac OS 9 support on the way. We bring you the first UK review of the full release version.

    Reviews May 2005
  • link

    Fervent Software Studio To Go

    Bootable Linux Software Suite For PC

    If you are attracted by the idea of Linux and open-source music software, but put off by the thought of installing it on your PC, there is another way: a bootable CD-ROM containing both the OS and all the software you need, ready to go.

    Reviews May 2005
  • link

    Easier Alternatives To Flagship Music Apps

    PC Musician

    Flagship sequencer apps are so packed with features that it could almost be a full-time job learning the package of your choice. If your needs are simpler, why not make it easy on yourself and investigate one of many options that are more entry-level or cut-down, yet still remarkably capable?

    Reviews Apr 2005
  • link

    Sony Acid Pro 5

    Audio & MIDI Loop Sequencer [PC]

    Version 5 of Acid Pro is the first major upgrade under the Sony Media Software badge, and has taken two years to arrive. Does it keep pace with other manufacturers' loop-sequencing packages?

    Reviews Apr 2005
  • link

    Image Line FL Studio 5

    PC Virtual Studio Software

    FL Studio has always been popular with those seeking a cost-effective, easy-to-use alternative to the 'big name' sequencers. The latest version adds a new drum sequencing tool, high-quality time-stretching and video support.

    Reviews Mar 2005
  • link

    MOTU Digital Performer 4.5

    MIDI + Audio Sequencer [Mac OS X]

    The migration to OS X has caused major upheavals for both software manufacturers and musicians, but Mark Of The Unicorn's long-established Digital Performer sequencer is better than ever.

    Reviews Feb 2005
  • link

    Cakewalk Sonar 4

    MIDI + Audio Sequencer [Windows]

    The latest version of Cakewalk's flagship sequencer brings it into the world of surround sound, makes it easy to work with folder tracks and multiple takes, and adds one of the most comprehensive Freeze functions available on any DAW.

    Reviews Jan 2005
Subscribe to RSS - DAWs