A digital audio workstation makes recording and sound design easier. Anyone who has a computer and basic recording tool like microphones, speakers, and headphones can record songs like a professional. Below is an easy to read guide on how to use a digital audio workstation and how to incorporate plug-ins or applications to make better music and audio related projects.
* Begin with a simple project. You can make a list of sound editing features and tools that you need or want to use for the project. However, it’s better if you’ll begin with simple tools and editing. If you simply want to record your voice and a single instrument, then a fundamental sound editing application will do. If you need to combine layers of instruments and vocals for a track, then you need professional sound editing software.
* Choose the digital audio application that you need. The application must be based on the list of sound editing features that you need. Most tools and features on sound editing applications like markers, regions, crop, mute, and fades can be found on most applications. However, professional applications have better features.
* Choose a trial version of your preferred sound editing software. You have 30 days to master the interface and learn the features of the application. Make simple projects before doing complex ones to know the limits of the software. Buy a full version if you’re satisfied or jump to another trial version to find the sound editing software that suits your needs. Buy an original copy to get updates.
* Understand what plug-ins are and how to optimize them. Every computer application has plug-ins that can be downloaded to help users maximize them. Most plug-ins are free while some may require a nominal fee. These plug-ins can usually be found all around the Internet. In some cases, the application itself may have an option that will allow you to search for available plug-ins through it. Whatever is the case, make sure that you do a little digging on a plug-in before downloading it.
* Compile plug-ins and other sound editing accessories like presets and samples. There’s no harm in downloading them to your hard drive because most of them are light. It’s also easy to uninstall them should you find them useless. Never dispose them either because you might need them for future projects. As a sound man, there’s a need for you to collect a large library of different sounds, textures, and plug-ins. These tools along with creativity will make you one great musician or sound engineer.
* Network with other sound editors. This is one effective way to get free plug-ins, samples, and presets. Make friends and trade tips, tools, and tricks with one another. Networking is also a way to get musical and technological ideas that can help you become a better sound editor, sound engineer or musician.
* Get the best sound equipment possible. Equipment matters. You need to invest a little. However, there’s no need to buy expensive materials. You just need to have the knowhow and become resourceful. There might be pre-owned but high quality headphones, keyboards, microphones, speakers, and musical instruments that you can buy if money is an issue.
It’s really a skill to learn how to edit songs and sounds effectively. Practice and make various kinds of projects and make collaborations with other artists to improve your skills. You can enroll in an audio-visual course, but nothing beats actual experience.
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