A Digital Audio Workstation, or DAW is the computer software used to record musical instruments, program MIDI, edit, mix, and master audio files. It is one of the most important tools in your creative arsenal as an engineer, producer, composer, or songwriter.
When I record custom drum and percussion tracks for clients, I primarily use Apple’s Logic Pro X. This software allows me to record multiple channels simultaneously, which is necessary for tracking great sounding drum parts.
The software also contains several built-in plug-ins that give me the ability to clean up and edit each individual drum track. This is essential for delivering the final product, regardless if the client wants mixed and mastered drum tracks or raw stems.
Logic also allows the use of third party plug-ins for editing and sound design. You can accomplish the same results with the included editing features of Logic, but some engineers and producers prefer the extra attributes and straightforward workflow offered by these plug-ins.
Keep in mind that you will still need to learn all of the functions and capabilities of these editing tools in order to maximize their output.
Here is a list of companies and their Digital Audio Workstations:
- Apple: Logic Pro
- Ableton: Live
- Avid: Pro Tools
- Propellerhead: Reason
- MOTU: Digital Performer
- Image Line: FL Studio
- Steinberg: Cubase
- PreSonus: Studio One
If you are considering diving into the recording and producing world, there are a few items to keep in mind. The learning curve of professional software can be fairly steep, but do not be discouraged. In fact, you may want to consider learning multiple programs. If you have the means and your computer can handle it, go for it!
This can only help with the depth of your recording or producing knowledge. After all, with all the different DAWs out there, you are bound to work or collaborate with someone that prefers using something different.
There are DAWs available to download for free, which might be a better option for anyone that is more budget conscious. It is also a good choice for beginners that are just starting to learn about the recording and producing process or that want to learn the basics for a specific software before they commit to purchasing it.
These digital audio workstations may not have the same versatility and editing capabilities as the industry leading programs, but they still work well and you can learn basic recording skills.
Music production software utilizes similar principles to give its user the ability to record and edit audio or MIDI files. Each program has its own specific layout and special features to accomplish this within the software.
There are Pros and Cons to each DAW so it is a matter of personal preference as far as choosing which one is right for you. Some engineers and producers will swear by specific software, but do not allow that to solely influence your choice. What is good for them may not be what is right for you.
If you are looking for a remote session drummer, please feel free to contact me for a free consultation at therightkey14@yahoo.com.