It has a handle, you can open or close it and you can walk through it 🚪

DAW stands for digital audio workshop. It’s a software installed on your laptop or computer for recording, creating and manipulating audio. This can be done across as many tracks as you wish, developing into one final product.

Some examples of DAWs might be:
– Ableton Live 11
– Logic Pro
– Studio One 5
– Bitwig Studio 4
– Audacity

Some are only available on certain operating systems too – whether that’s Windows, Mac or Linux.

You can record your own instruments or vocals, make use of pre-made samples or sounds from the DAW itself, or even develop music using MIDI instruments rather than using physical instruments using a microphone. DAW programs allow us to mix different audio channels together and master your project, resulting in professional-grade audio.

All DAWs share common features:

– Timeline (arrangement tab)
– Piano roll
– Input channels (mixer tab)
– Audio editing tools (Cut, Stretch, Quantize, and so on)
– Automation
– Virtual instruments
– Effects plugins

However, every DAW will offer its own distinct visual design, layout and other unique tools.

If you’re a beginner, we would recommend using the following DAWs to get you started:

– Garageband
– Ableton Live 10 Lite
– Cubase LE

Move onto how to record physical instruments in your DAW or how to record MIDI in your DAW.

If you have any further queries, feel free to get in touch with us!

See also:
What is lossless/lossy audio?
How do I prove I own my music?
Can I use sample pack content in my release?