1. DAW Software in Depth
DAW software creates a virtual recording studio in your computer. There are a number of DAW software packages out there, and finding the one that's best for you can be a challenge. Don't worry, we cover the essentials to help you choose!

2. Choosing a Computer
The heart of your DAW system is your computer, whether Mac or PC. The computer and its subsystems (CPU, RAM, hard drives, etc.) will determine how many tracks you can record and play at once, how many plug-ins you can apply in real time, how long edits will take, and more.

3. Audio Interface
To get sound in and out of your computer and software, you'll need an audio interface. Even though your computer may have built-in audio input and output capabilities, you'll want better quality and more flexibility than these can provide. We'll help you select the right interface for your needs.

4. Control Surface/MIDI Keyboard
Even though you can operate DAW software with just your computer keyboard and mouse, many people like to have the tactile response of real faders and knobs that a control surface provides. A MIDI keyboard allows you to play any virtual instrument plug-ins that operate from within your DAW.

5. Plug-ins
These helper programs extend the capability of the "host" program they're running in. Plug-ins can be processors such as compressors, limiters, equalizers, amp/speaker simulators, or effects like delay, reverb, chorus, and so on. Or they can be virtual instruments: software synths or samplers.