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Highlights in Science, Engineering and Technology CSIC 2023
Volume 85 (2024)
563
Analysis Of Different Types of Digital Audio Workstations
Yutong Yang
University High School of Indiana, Carmel 46032, the United States
* Corresponding Author Email: cyang@universityhighschool.org
Abstract. With the development of technology, digital audio workstation (DAW) has become a must-
have tool for modern music production, which allows music producers to edit, record, mix and add
effects on the computer to create music works of various styles and qualities. This paper mainly
introduces the definition, purpose, function, type and development of DAW, and how to choose the
appropriate DAW according to individual needs. This article compares and analyzes three commonly
used DAWs (Apple Logic Pro X, Cubase 12, Ableton Live Lite 11) from the aspects of personal
budget, user experience, software operating system compatibility, long-term development, and
whether live performances are needed. Their advantages, disadvantages and application range are
pointed out. This paper also points out some limitations of DAW, (e.g., the requirements of hardware
and software conditions, the difficulty of learning and mastering, the problems of music creation),
and looks forward to the future development direction of DAW (the improvement of user experience
and personalization, the utilization of cloud computing and artificial intelligence, and the integration
of other fields and media). These results can help independent music producers to understand the
basic situation and selection criteria of DAW, so as to better use DAW to create and express their
own music ideas, and provide some reference and inspiration for further improvement and innovation
of DAW.
Keywords: Digital audio workstation, personal budget, user experience, software compatibility.
1. Introduction
Digital audio workstation is also music production software, it is like a painter painting the
necessary brush and white paper, as long as one has talent and creativity, one can draw "music scroll"
through DAW [1]. Before describing computer music, it is necessary to complete a conceptual
supplement, even if what is specific music. Figurative music directly records the sound, creates
directly on the sound, and hears the whole face of the sound, and no longer needs abstract tools such
as symbols to transition, and the creative method itself is figurative [2]. The existing electronic audio
work is not overnight, it contains a number of initial germinations, mid-term development and stage.
In the early embryonic stage, in 1949, France's Schaeffer bore the brunt of completing the first
concrete music work "Subway Etude", and then created its most successful concrete music work
"Symphony for a lonely man". Early concrete music mainly through the nature or life world sound,
and then the material cut, paste, deformation and other technical processing, and finally organized
into a complete music work [3].
In 1951, Radio Cologne of the Federal Republic of Germany first began experimenting with
electronic music. In 1953, composer Emmert produced the early electronic music "Harmony Etudes"
at the station. The electronic music laboratory established by Emmert in Germany does not use
external sounds, which is the use of sine waves generated by electronic oscillators to produce music
through modulation, filtering and other means. In the early 1950s, electronic music was produced
after various calculations. The biggest influence in the early days of pure electronic music creation
was Stockhausen. In 1954, he produced two electronic Etudes and recorded them on CD. In this work,
it produced 193 acoustic materials using sine waves. It had a great influence on European and
American composers [4]. In 1956, Stockhausen released Gesang Der juenglinge (Song of Youth), a
method of processing voices with both concrete music and pure music, from which electronic music
began to grow into a blend of pure electronic and concrete music [5]. French musician Varese created
electronic poetry in 1958 at the Brussels World's Fair by fusing electronic noises with airplane sounds
[6]. At present, professional, semi-professional and amateurs will use DAW to produce their music
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works. In addition to instrument players, many famous musicians will use DAW drum machines,
synthesizers and other analog instruments to produce songs. This tendency will only intensify due to
science and technology's ongoing advancements.
In the middle stage, in the early 1950s, Herbert Beral and Harry Olson built the Mark II RCA
sound synthesizer, which was later donated to the Columbia-Princeton Electronic Music Center and
was the most advanced electronic music instrument of its time [6]. The period of the synthesizer,
which integrated sound generation and processing, came into being for electronic music in the 1960s.
By choosing and modifying control knobs, producers of electronic synthesizers may produce a wide
range of amazing sounds that directly affect pitch, rhythm, force, and timbre.
At the present stage of the development of electronic music, various technologies have burst out
new vitality with the development of computer science and technology and the enhancement of
various hardware function modules [7]. With the development of electronic computers, electronic
music has entered a new era. Digital technology is used by Mylins in the US to produce waveforms
and sound. The sound created by these new technologies is actually the same as the sound of other
natural instruments, which are the raw materials of artists. With the sound produced by electronic
means, the composer only has richer materials in his hands, of course, it is not the more talent, the
stronger the artistry, whether to create excellent works of art, but also rely on the creativity and talent
of musicians [8].
The creation of electronic music mainly obtains various new sound sources through recording and
electronic music technology. In order to transform, degenerate, vary, recombination, regenerate,
compound, or compose works, it either uses sine waves to produce the so-called pure tone without
overtone, or human voice, traditional acoustic instrument sound, or it combines them with specific
music using analog or digital audio technology [9]. Hence, the time of controversy began for all types
of production software. Using these technological tools, one may haphazardly mix a few weird noises
and diverse rhythms to create a range and speed that the human voice and Musical Instruments cannot
achieve. One can also construct a variety of fictitious sounds that are present throughout the cosmos.
Choosing DAW is a difficult choice for independent producers. Each DAW has its advantages and
disadvantages, and its own controversy. In fact, as long as one considers the following points
according to the personal needs, choosing DAW is not so difficult. In order to help independent
producers make a choice, this paper first introduces the definition of DAW and its purpose, then
describes it from the aspects of personal budget, user experience, software operating system
compatibility, long-term development and whether there is a need for live performance, etc. Finally,
the current situation of DAW is summarized, and the future development is forecast.
2. Basic Descriptions of DAW
DAW is a computer program that is mainly used for editing, recording, and mixing. Thus, one can
record various sounds, place tracks, rearrange, splice, cut, paste, add effects, and complete a series of
tasks required for music production [10]. The basic functions of DAW can be used to produce and
record music, but also to process recorded audio files according to specific requirements for more
satisfactory results. In addition to the simple processing of a single audio, DAS can also be used to
produce complex audio composed of multiple single audios, generally using functions such as
recording, mixing and audio editing in the production of complex audio to achieve this purpose. In
addition to using real music, DAW can also add some virtual sound effects to help users create the
sound in their head. And DAW has a variety of input sources, it allows one to guitar, piano and other
real instrument playing sound input into the computer through the microphone, in order to facilitate
subsequent editing or mixing operations. One can use DAW as an omnipotent musical kitchen, in
which one can provide music creators with all the raw materials and work for music creation and
provide them with platform tools to make a good song. In addition, DAW has a wide range of ways
to use it, making it compatible with a variety of musical styles and occasions. DAW allows one to
easily complete the production process of a song, from idea to finished product, in the home or studio.
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DAW also allows one to collaborate with other musicians and share the projects or files via the web
or mobile devices. DAW is a must-have tool for modern music production that allows one to unleash
the creativity and skill and realize the musical dreams.
3. Apple Logic Pro X
Logic Pro X Logic Pro is a well-known music production software that stands out for its extremely
complex interface (the panel is shown in Fig. 1), which aids the music creation process by
incorporating track merging (track stack), instrument layering, an intuitive mixer for plug-in
management, and a "score editor." Create the own MIDI tracks using simply a mouse (most apps
feature this). It offers a "Virtual drummer" function that includes an interactive drum set for
graphically incorporating drums for some fun playing and a natural sound kit [11].
Figure 1. The software interface of APPLE LOGIC PRO X (Photo/Picture credit: Original).
Logic Pro has a sound library and loop collection, as well as some extremely intriguing ready-to-
use effects, so it's an excellent choice if one 're searching for some sound for the controller/percussion
board. Logic Pro X, which costs $199 on Apple's App Store, is a more extensive version of
GarageBand, the music composition tool that comes standard with all Apple computers. Logic Pro X
allows one to play a MIDI keyboard in real time with over 100 different tunings. Begin by making a
new project and selecting a software instrument. Historical scales must be enabled in Logic Pro X via
Preferences/Advanced Tools/Advanced Editing. Select "Project Settings/Tuning" from the File menu
to select a specific tuning. Due to the high cost of accessing Internet data, access to free resources on
the Internet remains a challenge. Opportunities for formal training in music production are limited.
Despite the challenges, music production still takes place using analog and digital resources. Aspiring
music producers need to be proactive in exploring the Internet's free resources to gain knowledge
about music production [12].
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4. Cubase 12
Cubase is the most well-known music production software, and despite increased competition,
Cubase still leads the major DAWs [13]. Cubase has many great plugins, a rich sound library, and
powerful features that make it worth the money. The only downside to Cubase is that it's a bit
expensive and difficult to learn, but if one learns it, it can stay with one for a long time [14]. At the
moment, the fundamental music teaching method is relatively backward, and the instruction is boring,
which leads to a dramatic loss in student interest and a decrease in teaching efficiency. The use of
computer technology introduces new problems and opportunities to basic music education, which
considerably stimulates basic music teaching innovation. The goal of this research is to investigate
the use of computer technology (ACT) in music instruction in college basic education. This study
expounds on the application of ACT in fundamental music instruction from the viewpoints of ear
training teaching, music appreciation teaching, and music teaching. On this premise, the study
examines the active role of the computer in the application of basic music teaching, which may
increase students' interest in basic music teaching, enhance students' learning efficiency, and
instructors' teaching quality. The trial results suggest that music composition education has the
highest real ACT impact (94.28%), followed by solfeggio and music appreciation teaching (92%).
According to the overall study, ACT has achieved some progress in fundamental music education,
and its implementation in all aspects is nearly idea [15]. Similar to previous products, Cubase 12
comes in three versions. Pro Pro, Artist and Element editions. Suggested retail prices are $579 for the
Cubase Pro 12, $329 for the Cubase Artist 12, and $99.99 for the Cubase Elements 12. The
recommended level of this software ranges from semi-professional to expert, not very suitable for
beginners
5. Ableton live lite 11
Ableton Live 11 version is one of the best music production software. The best part about it is that
it is free to download and compatible with Windows and Mac [15], the panel is shown in Fig. 2. If
one uses the paid version, one gets an extra 4GB of sound. If one chooses not to purchase the upgrade,
one can get up to eight recordings for free. It also comes with a range of effects and tools to help
make high-quality music tracks. One can also use it to add MIDI tools such as keyboards, etc. [16].
If one already knows how a music production program works, one can quickly master it. Ableton is
an industrial-grade software that many musicians and producers use to create music and records.
Ableton Live is a music production software developed by the Berlin-based Ableton Company for
Windows and macOS. Ableton Live, more than any other software, is designed for live performance
instruments and for composing, recording, arranging, mixing, and mastering tools. Many famous DJS
use Live as their primary authoring and performing tool, as it provides a set of controls for beat
matching, fading in and out, and other different effects used by turntable lists.
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Figure 2. The software interface of Ableton Live 11 (Photo/Picture credit: Original).
The newly released Ableton Live 11 adds many demanding features, such as an elegant
arrangement system and support for MPE (MIDI Polyphonic Expression), as well as new devices and
updates to existing devices. It takes Live's modern music cutting-edge technical performance to a new
level [17]. The window interface consists of an Arrangement View and a Session View. The
Arrangement View provides a horizontal clip timeline similar to regular music production software.
The Session View provides a grid-based description of all clips in a live performance. There are four
basic instruments, Impulse, Simpler, Instrument Rack and Drum Rack, as well as various types of
external expansion instruments. There are a variety of MIDI control devices designed specifically for
Live or compatible, such as Akai's APC40 mk II, Novation's Launchpad, and Ableton's own Push.
Includes most of the common MIDI and audio effect types in the digital audio field, tailored for
electronic music producers and DJS, but also for traditional instrument recording. What’s more, it
has more comprehensive audio sampling processing functions, including sampling analysis, time
stretching, online material, MIDI conversion, etc., to better adapt to the overall needs of the music.
Almost all parameters in Ableton Live 11 can be automated through an envelope, whether it's
audio clips, parameter controls for audio devices, or mapping to MIDI controls. And most of the
interface is adapted to live performance and production, the user interface rarely has a message or
dialog box pop up, one can hide and display some parts at any time based on the arrow.
6. Limitations & Future outlooks
Through the discussion of this study, the existing DAW has the following shortcomings. Firstly,
the use of DAW requires certain hardware and software conditions, such as memory, processor, sound
card, operating system, etc. If these conditions are not met, the efficiency and stability of DAW may
be affected. Secondly, it takes time and effort to learn and master DAW, different DAW have different
interfaces and functions, users need to be familiar with and adapt to their operation logic and
workflow, which may cause some difficulties and frustration for beginners. Finally, the use of DAW
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may lead to some problems in music creation, such as over-reliance on the functions and effects of
software, ignoring the essence and creativity of music, or being obsessed with the adjustment of
details, ignoring the overall effect and style. The development of DAW will pay more attention to
user experience and personalization, such as providing a more friendly and flexible interface, more
intelligent and user-friendly functions, and more abundant and diversified resources. In addition, with
the further development of science and technology. The development of DAW will make greater use
of cloud computing and artificial intelligence technologies, such as providing more efficient and
secure data storage and transmission, more accurate and practical music analysis and generation, and
more convenient and collaborative music sharing and communication. What’s more, the development
of DAW will be more integrated with other fields and mediums, such as combining virtual reality and
augmented reality technology to provide a more immersive and innovative environment for music
production and performance, combining social networks and gaming platforms to provide a more
interactive and fun way to learn and entertain music [18].
7. Conclusion
This paper mainly introduces the definition, purpose, function, type and development of DAW,
and how to choose the appropriate DAW according to individual needs. This article compares and
analyzes three commonly used DAWs (Apple Logic Pro X, Cubase 12, Ableton Live Lite 11) from
the aspects of personal budget, user experience, software operating system compatibility, long-term
development, and whether live performances are needed. Their advantages, disadvantages and
application range are pointed out. This paper also points out some limitations of DAW, such as the
requirements of hardware and software conditions, the difficulty of learning and mastering, the
problems of music creation, etc., and looks forward to the future development direction of DAW,
such as the improvement of user experience and personalization, the utilization of cloud computing
and artificial intelligence, and the integration of other fields and media. The research significance of
this paper is that it can help independent music producers to understand the basic situation and
selection criteria of DAW, so as to better use DAW to create and express their own music ideas, and
also provide some reference and inspiration for further improvement and innovation of DAW.
References
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(Music Online, New York, 2019).
[2] P. Schaeffer, Studio d’Essai, présenté le, 5 (1948).
[3] K. Stockhausen, Studie II (No. 3) (Universal Edition, London, 1956).
[4] K. Stone, Stockhausen: Gesang der Jünglinge (Springer, Berlin, 1963).
[5] J. Spaniol, The advent of electronic music and its impact on the career of Edgar Varese (MREC,
London, 2007).
[6] R. C. A. Mark II, RCA Mark II Sound Synthesizer (ACM, Los Angele, 2010)
[7] M. Schedel, Computer Music Journal, 32(4), 83-84 (2008),
[8] R. Xu, Journal of Knowledge Information Technology and Systems, 9(5), 629-635 (2014).
[9] J. Chadabe, Organised Sound, 9(1), 3-6 (2004).
[10] C. Leider, Digital audio workstation (McGraw-Hill, New York, 2004).
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(Peachpit Press, London, 2020).
[12] D. Keeports, American Journal of Physics, 84(2), 86-86 (2016).
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[14] Y. I. Vivian, M. B. Arifin, I. Wahyuni and F. Y. Aprazaq, Pelita: Jurnal Pengabdian kepada
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