5. DAW Software
Objectives:
- Define the various DAW applications available.
- Describe the function of the DAW's overview window.
- Describe the various elements found in the overview.
- Define Random Access in terms of workstations.
- Identify the various editing tools available in a
DAW and their functions
The DAW Concept
- The "traditional" recording environment
- DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) - an integrated software
environment that allows recording,editing, processing, mixing, and distribution
of music
DAW Applications or Features
- Once, different features were contained in different applications
- Now, most are integrated into a single package
- Consider these as "features" as much as "applications"
Recorders and Sequencers
- Multitrack recording - the capture of multople channels of audio or MIDI
- Sequencing - audio and MIDI - manipulation and arrangement of captured
audio or MIDI
Waveform Editors
- Performs highly-detailed editing at the sample level
- Formerly, a separate application
- Now integral to most recorders/sequencers
Loop Construction Software
- Eliminate limits of beat matching
- Time Stretching, pitch manipulation
Mastering/CD Creator
- CD creation - unique requirements
- Mastering - final processing of audio, arrangement,
creation of production material
- Mastering software incorporates CD creation
process
Patch Editors/Librarians
- Gateway to MIDI patch management
- Editor - manipulate parameters of synth or device via MIDI
- Librarian - organization of MIDI patches and sounds
Software (Virtual) Instruments
- Software implementations of sound generators
- Standalone or controlled through sequencer (plug-in)
Plug-ins
- Programs that work with a host - not a stand-alone
program
- Expand capabilities of host
- Function as signal processors (EQ, reverb, delay, dynamics, etc) or signal
sources (soft synths)
- Work as real-time or file-based (Audiosuite in Pro Tools)
Basics of Desktop Arranging
Thinking at Random
Random-access nature of computer vs. linear system
Onscreen Overview
- Known by different names - edit, arrange, sequence,
project
- Basic view of project - edit elements of project in context of the
whole
Elements of the Overview
Tracks, Objects, Segments, and Regions
- Representations and organization of functional components
- Regions allow for editing of data
- Editing is generally non-destructive
Timeline
- Representation of the time element of the project
- Different formats - minutes/seconds, bars/beats,
SMPTE
- Navigational elements
- Markers
- Loops
- Punch-in points
- Tempo, meter
Grid
- Interaction of project elements with the timeline
- Allows for control of where elements are placed
Navigation
Navigation features are a key advantage of non-linear systems
Transport
- Mimics controls on real-time recorders
- Random-access nature allows for instant locates
- Counter included - display of current position
Cursor
- Represents current time position
- Relocation of position through transport or timeline
- Used to set up edit points
Markers
- Allows storage and use of markers and cue points
- Instant locate
External Controllers
- For most, hardware controllers can be faster than "point-and-click"
- dedicated controller mimics familiar transports and mixers
- Shortcut keys or external keyboard can be used as external controllers
Tools
- Representations of editing functions in a DAW
- Define the function of the cursor fro a given process
- Tools and methods of accessing them will differ from one program
to the next
- Most common functions include:
- Pointer, grabber
- Selector
- Scissors or knife
- Joiner
- Eyeglass
- Trimmer
- Scrubber
- A tool in one program may be a menu function in another
- Hot keys - quick access to useful tools and functions
Link to Editors
- Overview is gateway to other functions or features
- Allows access to appropriate audio or MIDI editors by selection of
elements in overview
