We all know that it’s now possible to record, mix and master inside your computer or Digital Audio Workstation (DAW), but what if you want to insert an effect into a track within your project? Although it’s possible to send audio to and from traditional outboard from your DAW, most recording software comes bundled with software equivalents offering effects and processing such as EQ, compression and reverb, commonly referred to as ‘plug-ins’. In addition to your recording software’s standard plug-ins, there are many third party developers with a huge range of effects to choose from.

This guide aims to explain the basics surrounding the use of effects plug-ins in your recordings, and will hopefully assist you in their selection, and in understanding the enormous possibilities they create in the studio.

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