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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.

Displaying 1 - 9 of 9 items
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    Using Outboard Gear

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Recording and mixing with outboard gear in Cubase 6.

    Techniques Dec 2011
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    Device Racks

    Ableton Live Tips & Techniques

    Explore some creative uses for Live’s Device Racks.

    Techniques Dec 2011
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    Ultrabeat Syncing

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Ultrabeat isn't just a drum machine: it's great for tempo-synced effects.

    Techniques Dec 2011
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    Pitch-correction Plug-ins

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Pitch-correction plug-ins are the key to the current trend for weird vocal effects. Here’s how to achieve them in Pro Tools.

    Techniques Dec 2011
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    ReaVerb, Part 1

    Reaper Tips & Techniques

    In the first of a two-part series on using impulse responses in Reaper’s ReaVerb, we look at the basics: selecting, loading and editing. • Read Part 1

    Techniques Dec 2011
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    ReaVerb, Part 1 | Media

    Reaper Tips & Techniques

    Audio files to accompany the article.

    Techniques Dec 2011
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    Mix Tricks For Reason 6

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    Reason’s new mixer has useful features you may not have noticed...

    Techniques Dec 2011
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    FX Chains

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Create virtual multi-effects with Sonar X1e's FX Chains 2.0

    Techniques Dec 2011
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    Presonus Studio One 2.0

    Recording, Mixing & Mastering Software [Mac/PC]

    Version 2 of Studio One offers unprecedented levels of integration with third-party software — or, in other words, built-in Melodyne!

    Reviews Dec 2011
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