ABSTRACT
This chapter describes how to operate a digital audio workstation (DAW) during a recording session and also during mix-down. It explores the stages in making a multitrack recording namely session preparation, recording, overdubbing, punching in, editing and mixing. Punching in is used to fix mistakes in a recorded performance or to record a musical part in segments. After all the tracks are recorded, it's time to mix or combine them to 2-track stereo. One can play back the recording to check the performance and sound quality. A DAW has a built-in metronome that can be used for count-offs, but it is optional. Some DAWs have an autopunch function. As the recording plays, the DAW automatically goes into and out of record mode at some points. In many DAWs, effects changes and panning changes can be automated as well. In some DAWs, the MIDI track's volumes can be automated with fader volume envelopes.
