Welcome to the Media Production Studio at the Loretta C. Duckworth Scholars Studio! The goal of this guide is to familiarize you with the software and equipment in the suite and to help guide you along the way as you create your projects.
For assistance with the Media Production Studio, please contact the LCDSS Staff.
A Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) is software used for recording, editing, and producing audio files. DAWs are used for producing and recording music, speech, radio & podcasts, soundtracks, sound effects and just about anything else involving recorded or edited audio.
The media production studio offers several different DAWs for different purposes and skill levels. When Choosing which DAW is right for you, consider the following:
Are you looking to record a podcast? Create electronic music? Record musical instruments? Gain more experience with mixing and post production? Each of these goals require specific needs, so you should consider them when choosing a DAW. If you're interested in podcasting, Audacity is an intuitive, easy to use, and free open-source DAW. However, it does not have the MIDI capabilities for creating electronic music that programs like Logic Pro or FLStudio do, so if that is where your interests lie it may not be the best for you.
In addition to the type of project you're working on, another very important thing to consider is your level of experience. While a program like Pro Tools is great for recording and editing live instruments, it comes with a steep learning curve and might not be the best DAW for someone recording for the first time. If you're new to recording, programs like GarageBand or Audition have some very easy to use presets and are a great way to get started without getting overwhelmed.
Do you prefer Windows or Mac OS? Which operating system you are most familiar with is an important but ofter-overlooked consideration when choosing a DAW. Programs like Logic Pro and Garage Band are great ways to get started with audio production, but are only available for Mac OS. As a consequence, those who prefer Windows might want to familiarize themselves with a DAW that is available for their platform, particularly if they plan on working on post-production outside the studio. Programs like Audacity are available cross-platform, so you will be able to utilize them no matter which OS you prefer.
Based on the above considerations, it is recommended that you review the summaries and functionalities of the different DAWs available in the Media Productions Suite in order to choose one that will be best for you and your project.
