Using Automation

Another feature that is important to mixing is automation. Automation lets you record changes to almost any parameter in SONAR, including track parameters, effects, synths and buses. SONAR makes this very easy.

1.	Click a track's Write Automation button to enable automation writing for that track.

2.	Press Play to start playback.

3.	During playback, simply make the changes to the parameters in realtime, using either your mouse or a control surface.

4.	To disable automation writing, stop playback and click the track's Write Automation button again.

When you play back, the parameters will update automatically.

Automation allows you to make gradual or sudden changes to make your song more dynamic. For example, in the tutorial project, you might find that Whiney Synth should become lower in volume at measure 25, when the drums and bass change. Try it:

1.	Click the Write Automation button on the Whiney Synth track.

2.	Click Play or press SPACEBAR to start playback.

3.	At measure 25, turn the track volume down to the desired level.

4.	At measure 33, turn the track volume back up.

5.	Press Stop to stop playback.

6.	Disable Write Automation by clicking the button again.

7.	Press Play and notice how the track volume changes automatically. Repeat this process with any other automation you feel the project needs. For more information, see Automation.

That concludes this tutorial. But don't stop here. Continue to experiment by adding different effects, adding loops through the Media Browser view, etc.

Be creative and listen closely to the mix details in your favorite songs and albums. It's sure to provide you with inspiration for your own projects. There are also many books available on the topic, as well as thousands of add-on plug-ins that can expand your arsenal of FX. For more information, visit www.cakewalk.com.

Tips: www.cakewalk.com/Support

Videos: www.cakewalk.com/CakeTV

 

See also:

Tutorial 1 - Creating, playing, and saving projects

Tutorial 2 - Using the Browser

Tutorial 3 - Recording vocals and musical instruments

Tutorial 4 - Playing and recording software instruments

Tutorial 5 - Working with music notation

Tutorial 6 - Editing your music

Tutorial 8 - Working with video

Tutorial 9 - Exporting, CD burning and sharing