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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 - 14 of 14 items
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    Lock Tight Super Groove

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    If you want to overdub programmed parts to a performance that varies in tempo, Cubase has all the tools you need.

    Techniques Dec 2012
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    Get Real | Media

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Audio files to accompany the article.

    Techniques Nov 2012
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    Get Real

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    These simple steps in Cubase 5 will make your programmed acoustic drum tracks sound more authentic.

    Techniques Nov 2012
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    Smoother Groover

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Find out how to build a natural-sounding acoustic drum kit in Cubase’s Groove Agent One.

    Techniques Oct 2012
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    Amp It Up!

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Get creative with your guitar tones, using Cubase’s VST Amp Rack

    Techniques Sep 2012
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    Amp It Up! | Media

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Audio files to accompany the article

    Techniques Sep 2012
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    Groove-quantise, Part 2

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Cubase’s quantise tools aren’t just for MIDI these days: find out how to make your recorded audio parts sit in the same groove.

    Techniques Aug 2012
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    Groove-quantise, Part 1

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    The groove‑quantise functions in Cubase allow you to tighten your performance without killing that all‑important human feel.

    Techniques Jul 2012
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    Steinberg Cubase 6.5

    Digital Audio Workstation

    It may be ‘only a point five’ update, but there’s plenty on offer in the latest version of Cubase.

    Reviews Jun 2012
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    Control Room

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Learn to switch between monitor systems with Cubase’s Control Room.

    Techniques May 2012
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    Control Room

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Manage multiple monitor mixes with Cubase’s Control Room.

    Techniques Apr 2012
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    Multitracking Drums

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    If you’ve ever wanted to tighten the timing of multitrack drums in Cubase, look no further...

    Techniques Mar 2012
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    Multitrack Comping

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Cubase’s new comping facilities allow you to assemble the perfect multitrack recording from several takes.

    Techniques Feb 2012
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    Keyboard Shortcuts

    Cubase Tips & Techniques

    Mastering keyboard shortcuts makes Cubase easier to use and is good for your health!

    Techniques Jan 2012
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