A digital audio workstation (DAW) is made up of a computer, software and hardware system.
DAW stands for "Digital Audio Workstation." Many computer systems are capable of becoming a DAW on different levels. Some DAW systems require PCI cards or specific hardware that requires a specific computer type or interface connections. Others operate from FireWire or USB connections. An iMac is a very capable computer and can be used with most FireWire or USB DAW systems that work on Apple's OSX operating system.
Instructions
Using an iMac as a DAW
1. Closely check the compatibility of your iMac and OSX version to the DAW system you'd like to use.
2. Install the software according to DAW manufacturer's instructions.
3. Install hardware, if any, and external FireWire drive according to the documentation with the DAW system.
4. Check the formatting of the FireWire drive. It should be Mac OS Extended (Journaled) unless otherwise instructed by the DAW documentation. You can check by highlighting the drive, then select "Get info" under the Finder's File menu.
Tags: FireWire drive