A DAW, or digital audio workstation, is basically the digital version of a recording studio. Back in the analogue days, you'd record the vocals and instruments to a multi-track tape so that each instrument could be individually mixed, edited and enriched with effects. Today's DAW packs offer almost all of the same options in digital form, allowing aspiring artists and producers to build a pro-level studio at a fraction of the price of real, hardware-based recording equipment.
Digital Audio Workstation: Music Production Software for MIDI and Audio
While DAW software is made for recording and editing, it's typically used to produce music. In addition to effects for creating the right feel, every DAW offers multiple tracks for your vocals, guitar, drums and other instruments, which you can either record yourself or substitute with virtual instruments controlled via MIDI. Over the past couple of decades, computers became faster and faster, and the popularity of DAW software grew right along with it. In fact, computers have become so fast and powerful that they can even replace almost every old music production method in the book. Also, since almost everything happens digitally these days, it makes sense for the latest generation of musicians, songwriters and producers to use DAW software - not to mention it's a lot cheaper than investing in all of the hardware needed to build a fully-fledged recording studio.
The Gear Needed to Produce Tracks With a DAW
In addition to DAW software, most studios use the following gear to produce music: an audio interface, studio monitors, a MIDI keyboard (and/or a MIDI studio controller), and a pair of studio headphones. Optional extras are virtual instrument plug-ins and virtual effects, since most entry-level DAW packs come with a limited number of included plug-ins.
The Best Operating System: Apple Mac, Windows PC or Linux
In terms of OS support, there's not much to worry about. Most DAWs are compatible with both Windows and Mac operating systems, and there are several that are even compatible with Linux-based systems. It all depends on what you're used to as well as what works for you.
Minimum System Requirements
Since the minimum system requirements usually aren't very high, even less powerful laptops can run DAW software. The only thing to bear in mind is that the actual performance will depend on how the DAW software is used. If you're 'simply' recording vocals and a guitar part, any system is unlikely to struggle with the couple of tracks that you'll need here, but as soon as you start adding intense effects like reverb to multiple tracks, your CPU might become a little overburdened if isn't fast enough to handle everything you throw at it. The same goes for instrument plug-ins, where a handful of electronic drums, a bass line and a couple of keyboard sounds won't put much strain on your computer, while massively detailed piano samples will. If you're just starting out, we recommend that you see how your current system holds up. You can always replace or perhaps upgrade it in the future.
Logic, Ableton, Cubase, Pro Tools, Magix Acid Pro...
FL Studio, Logic, Ableton, Cubase, Pro Tools, Magix Acid Pro, Bitwig, Reason, Presonus Studio One.. there are so many DAWs it's almost intimidating, so we'll try to make it easier for you. For a start, all DAWs are designed with the same thing in mind: recording and editing audio and MIDI via multiple tracks. In addition, all basic DAW-based skills and tools are easy to learn, especially with the help of video tutorials. That being said, some DAWs are better equipped for certain styles of music than other DAWs. FL Studio, for instance, is optimised for the production of EDM, so our advice would be to read up on the various different DAW programs to find out what they're aimed at, what the interface and controls look like, and what you're getting in terms of included effect and instrument plug-ins. It's also worth mentioning that most DAW packs are available as a stripped-down entry-level version, a professional version and a version that sits somewhere in-between.
Downloadable and Boxed Versions
Most of the DAW software that you can purchase online comes in the form of a digital download. If your DAW of choice is in stock, that means we'll send you a download code via email after payment is complete. Some software packs are also available as boxed versions. What these physical versions look like differs per title. In some cases, the boxed version simply includes a voucher stamped with a download code, and sometimes a paper manual is included. All of our DAW product pages clearly state whether you're looking at a boxed or at a downloadable version.
Frequently Asked Questions About DAW Software
What is DAW Software?
DAW software is what you need to produce complete songs. A DAW is essentially a digital recording environment where you record, structure, edit and mix audio into music.
What's the best DAW software for me?
Since all DAWs are designed for the same purpose (i.e. produce music), it all depends on personal preferences. The main differences lie in the graphic interface and various unique features and options.
What's the best DAW for beginners?
While there's no DAW software that's been specifically developed for beginners, there are entry-level editions, which can often be upgraded to a more extensive version once you're familiar with the basics.
Which DAW should I use?
Most DAWs offer roughly the same functionality but can differ from one another in terms of the style of music they're geared towards. FL Studio, for instance, is mainly aimed at the production of dance music. You can always look up some videos of different DAWs to find out which one appeals to you most.
What software can I use to produce songs?
The answer is DAW software. DAWs offer everything you need to record, edit and mix audio as well as MIDI. If you want to compose musical score, go for notation software instead.
