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DAW

A digital audio workstation is the main software used to record, edit, sequence, mix, and export music.

Level relevance: introduced at Nat 3; tagged for every later level where the same concept remains useful.

Explanation

A DAW, or digital audio workstation, is the central piece of software in most Music Technology work. It allows you to record audio, program MIDI parts, edit performances, apply effects, balance levels, automate changes, and export a finished track. Examples include Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Cubase, Pro Tools, and Reaper. In coursework, the DAW is usually where the whole project is organised and completed.

Topics

SoftwareProduction workflowSequencingMixing
Curriculum statussupporting vocabulary
Review statusdraft

Related terms

MIDI

MIDI is performance and control data that tells devices what to play, rather than storing recorded sound.

View term

Sequencer

A sequencer records and organises MIDI or audio events in time so they can be played back accurately.

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Multitrack recording

Multitrack recording captures separate parts onto separate tracks so they can be edited and mixed independently.

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Automation

Automation allows settings such as level, pan, or effect amount to change over time automatically.

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