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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 - 11 of 11 items
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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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    Maschine Music

    Ableton Tips & Techniques

    NI’s Maschine makes a perfect partner for Ableton Live.

    Techniques Oct 2012
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    Home Grown

    Logic Tips & Techniques

    Often overlooked, Apple Loops can be a hugely useful composition tool. So why not make your own in Logic?

    Techniques Oct 2012
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    The Complete Works

    Pro Tools Tips & Techniques

    Avid’s Complete Production Toolkit effectively bridges the gap between HDX and native Pro Tools systems. We look at what you get for your money.

    Techniques Oct 2012
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    Extension Leads

    Reason Tips & Techniques

    We serve up another smorgasbord of Reason Rack Extensions.

    Techniques Oct 2012
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    Do The Splits

    Samplitude Tips & Techniques

    If your drumming needs a little help from technology, Samplitude Pro X has the tools to fix timing.

    Techniques Oct 2012
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    Do The Splits | Media

    Samplitude Tips & Techniques

    Video tutorials to accompany the article.

    Techniques Oct 2012
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    The Long Way Round

    Sonar Tips & Techniques

    Create looper effects with longer delay times in Sonar.

    Techniques Oct 2012
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    Parallel Universe

    Studio One: Tips & Techniques

    Get to grips with parallel processing in Studio One, and open up exciting sonic possibilities...

    Techniques Oct 2012
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    Parallel Universe | Media

    Studio One Tips & Techniques

    Audio examples to accompany the article.

    Techniques Oct 2012
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    WaveMachine Labs Auria

    DAW For iPad

    Auria is the first truly professional multitrack recording app to hit the App Store.

    Reviews Oct 2012
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