When you are starting out in music production and home recording, it can feel a little overwhelming. People start throwing around terms and concepts that you are unfamiliar with, and they can just assume that you know what they mean. So what does DAW in music mean?
Let me show you.
What is a DAW?
So let’s talk about DAW.
DAW stands for Digital Audio Workstation.
So what does that mean? It’s software you install on your computer or device. That allows you to record, edit, manipulate, arrange and mix audio files, midi, vst and effects. You put it into a final product, which is usually a song.
The DAW gives you the ability to use instruments, vocals, sounds, effects, midi, and other elements to create an arrangement on a timeline. Most DAWs give you a lot of tracks that you can work with to create your arrangement. And most people starting out won’t need anywhere near the maximum that a DAW provides.
Audio Editors vs. DAWs
Some people think that maybe just the function of recording and editing is what makes a program a DAW. But I think the ability to arrange all the different elements along a timeline, and then mix them all together in a way that is pleasing to you is what separates the audio editing programs from the DAWs.
So, in my eyes, Audacity or Adobe Audition are both audio editors.
They both give you the ability to record and edit the audio. It has some basic mixing and effects, but is more limited in the audio processing and arranging than other programs.
Plus, Adobe Audition is more geared towards video production. With tools that are more intended to be used by someone who is putting together a film.
So that’s part of what I think makes Audition and Audacity a bit different than DAWs.
What are the most popular DAWs?
DAWs are programs like Pro Tools, Cubase, Ableton Live, Logic, FL Studio, Studio One, Reaper, etc.
These go beyond the simple recording and editing functions. And they open up a new world of possibilities concerning being able to record midi instruments. Or even using VST plugins to generate the sound. They let you put each of the tracks you are creating into a mixer. You can process them each individually. And go beyond that to creating sub-mixes, and sends
Each of these programs is created with the tools that are meant for producing songs. They have all the tools for creation, editing, arranging, mixing and mastering.
So which DAW is the best for beginners?
I think that’s a fairly tough question to answer. I think a lot of it is dependent on the user. And their preferences and what they are wanting to accomplish.
Each DAW has its own strengths and weaknesses. As the user, you have to figure out which interface you feel most comfortable working in. I think the best idea is to download the free or trial versions of the software. Start to experiment with the workflow of recording, editing and arranging. See which one meshes best with the way your mind works.
I started out working with FL Studio. And I like the workflow of it. It makes sense to me. But I have a friend who tried FL Studio, and he hated the way it worked. He ended up using Studio One, and loved the workflow.
I know of other people who love the workflow for Ableton Live.
I will give you a couple of suggestions and ideas. They might help you narrow down which DAW might be best for you.
If you want to do live shows with recorded parts, I think Ableton might be the best bet. It is really geared for those who do live performance, but also is very capable to produce music.
FL Studio also has a Performance Mode in it. But I don’t think it is anywhere near as robust or well documented as Ableton Live.
I personally am starting to look at learning Ableton Live. I want to to utilize the capabilities and possibilities that Ableton offers for live performance.
LINKS TO TRIAL VERSIONS
FL Studio
One of the downsides that it looks like you can only download the lowest version of the software. That means you would be limited in your ability to test features like recording audio. Recording audio in for the Producer version and above.
Here is a link to the Trial Version of FL Studio.
Cubase
This looks like a good deal. You can try the program for 30 days before you have to purchase it.
That would give you plenty of time to start to learn the workflow of the program.
Here is a link to the Trial Version of Cubase.
Ableton Live
Ableton seems to be doing something similar to Cubase. They are offering a 30 day free trial of the software before you have to purchase a license. Should be plenty of time to mess around in the DAW and figure out if you like the workflow.
Here is the link to the Trial Version of Ableton Live.
Presonus Studio One
Studio One seems to have a little bit more of a unique approach. They let you either download the Professional version of the software and try it for 30 days, or you can get a free version of the software with a lot more limited features. The downside is that it looks like you have to set up an account to access either version.
Here is the Link to the Trial Version of Studio One.
CONCLUSION
Now that you know what DAW means, it’s time to explore a little more about music production and home recording. There are some other articles on the site. They will help you get a little better of a grasp on different elements of music production and home recording.
I also have articles if you want to learn how to record audio in FL Studio. Or setup a midi controller with FL Studio. Even how to record electric guitar in FL Studio, and others.
I hope you found this information helpful.
And as always, if you have any questions, leave them in the comments below. I want to hear what you have to say.