Part 4

Building A DAW (Digital Audio Workstation)

Some software for the PC to consider:

From Cakewalk: Various versions

Sonar

Digidesign:

ProTools LE - Good for audio only projects, lacks in the midi department. Not the same as ProTools HD systems found in professional studios starting in the $10K price range. LE doesn't support Open Media Format that enables you to work on your projects in other audio apps.

From Steinberg:

Cubase SE - entry level Cubase Multitrack recording software Priced around $95.00 AMS
Cubase SL - next step up the Steinberg chain of recording software - $299.97 AMS
Cubase SX 3.0 - The top of the Cubase chain using the Nuendo audio engine - $579.00 AMS
Nuendo - Top of the line complete media production system - composition, film, broadcast, music, post production, surround sound and multimedia from Steinberg - $1249.00 AMS

If you want a more pro solution and are willing to spend some money then I suggest to go with Cubase SX. Unless you intend to do film composition.

AMS = American Musical Supply

You would need to meet the following requirements: