Cakewalk by BandLab Tutorial Notes

Overview

• Cakewalk by BandLab: A free DAW for Windows to create music and recordings.
• Tutorial Duration: 13 minutes to cover basics for starting an audio project.

Starting a Project

• Start Screen: Offers options to open recent/existing projects or create a new one from templates.
• Interface: Central timeline with panels that can be shown/hidden.
• Basic Template: Focus of the tutorial.

Importing Sound

• Dragging and Dropping: Add samples and MIDI compositions to the timeline.
• Audio vs. MIDI Tracks:
  • Audio Tracks: For samples and waveforms.
  • MIDI Tracks: For compositions, sequencers, notes.
• Recording Audio: Use the plus button to create a new Audio Track, select input source, and arm for recording.

Timeline Navigation

• Measurement: Bars and beats; main marker and timer show current position.
• Zoom: Use ALT + mouse wheel.
• Playback: Spacebar or play button; loop regions for repetition.

Project Setup

• Main Options: Set sample rate, output (Playback Master), and input (Record Master).

Composing Music

• Tracks:
  • Instrument Track: For composing with VST synths.
  • MIDI Track: For connecting external instruments.
• Instrument Track Setup: Use plus button, select instrument, import MIDI files/compositions.
• Piano Roll: Double-click to compose, place notes, adjust with Controller Lane.
• Step Sequencer: For percussions with drum synths; adjust beats, mute/solo notes.

Managing Clips

• Smart Tool: Move clips, adjust length, loop with Groove-Clip Looping.
• Cut, Copy, Paste: Use CTRL+X, C, V; select portions.
• Fade Transitions: Adjust from clip corners.

Track Management

• Properties: Adjust on the left; mute, solo buttons.
• Effects: Add effects under FX; edit properties.
• Special Tracks: Metronome, Master Track.
• Inspector Panel: Adjust gain, sends, pan, volume, ProChannel for EQ and compression.

Saving and Exporting

• Saving:
  • .cwb Format: Saves options, timeline, files.
  • .cwp Format: Saves project, links external files.
• Exporting: Define loop region, select tracks, set export options.

Conclusion

• YouTube Channel: More free tutorials available.