This one will be short and sweet!
A few extra pointers to help optimize your computer to run better when recording or processing audio. While I primarily work with windows, I know a lot of you out there will be working with Apple. I’ve done my best to keep these recommendations platform agnostic
-
5.1 Configuring Computer Settings for Audio
- Settings that can help improve computer performance, such as power management and disabling background processes.
_________________________________________________________________
1. Disable unused applications on system start up:
Windows specifically likes to start Microsoft Edge on system start up, we don't need that to happen. We’re trying to boot the computer to get to our DAW. This is only taking up more time to start your computer. Feel free to disable and/or delete any applications you aren't going to use.
_________________________________________________________________
2. Minimize background tasks:
If you’re on YouTube playing a 4k video, chatting it up on discord, and trying to record all at the same time. You’re causing your computer to work harder, meaning you’re losing processing power for your audio. Make sure to close out of applications, internet browsing and other multitasking things you might be trying to do. If we have the DAW open, it should be the only thing running!
_________________________________________________________________
3. Disable USB power management:
If you're using a USB audio interface, disable USB power management to free up bandwidth on the USB bus. Your computer will always try to save resources by conserving power. We don't want that. We want all the power we can get.
In addition to this, if you are using a USB HUB, make sure that it's powered! If you can avoid plugging your interface into the HUB be sure to do so. A direct connection to the computer's USB port is the preferred method of connection. BUT, if you can't avoid it, and you need the HUB. Make sure the HUB can plug into the wall. This reduces the amount of energy taken from the computer resulting in faster speeds and better efficiency.
_________________________________________________________________
4. Perform hard drive optimizations:
While this is something I would do before downloading the DAW or any other software. Optimizing your hard drive improves disk performance when recording and playing back audio files. If you’re already knee deep I wouldn't worry about this step as to prevent any issues with corrupting data were there to be any issues during the operation. Unless you really feel the need to, back your computer up before proceeding.
_________________________________________________________________
5. Disable system sounds:
System notification sounds can interrupt audio. More importantly they can interrupt your recording session. The last thing you want is to be recording the best take so far and your computer dings so loudly that it distracts the artist and bleeds into your recording ruining the moment entirely.
Not only are audible notifications and system sounds distracting and liable for ruined recordings. It's also a random dip in computer processing power. Thus creating more fluctuations in computing speeds. It's easier to just turn them off completely.
_________________________________________________________________
6. Update graphics card drivers:
Outdated graphics drivers can tax the computer's processor. Make sure you’re all up to date!
_________________________________________________________________Computer settings overview
-
Avoid USB hubs: Using a USB hub can cause issues if not powered.
-
Disable background apps: Apps running in the background can consume system resources that could be used for your audio production software.
-
Disable system sounds: System notification sounds can interrupt audio.
-
Disable USB power management: Disabling USB power management frees up bandwidth on the USB bus, which can help with device recognition and driver installation.
-
Install more RAM: Your operating system can use up to 2 GB or more of RAM, so you'll want more RAM for power-hungry applications.
-
Update your audio interface drivers and firmware: Updating your drivers and firmware can improve the stability, compatibility, and functionality of your audio interface.
-
Disable Automatic updates: You don't want your computer updating while you're in the middle of a track.
-
Adjusting buffer size: A longer buffer size can help with issues like clicks and pops during playback, audio dropouts, choppy audio, and aliasing but can increase latency.
- Create a custom power plan: You can create a custom power plan with high performance settings and never turn off the display or put the computer to sleep when in operation.
_________________________________________________________________
-
5.2 DAW Settings and Preferences
- Basic DAW settings for optimal performance.
Our DAW settings are more so directly affected by our Audio Interface settings as in, Sample rate, Bit Depth, and Buffer size. For a better understanding of these setting refer to the previous lesson in this course (Pt.4 Understanding Audio Interface Settings)
Even if you don't have an audio interface, your computer’s built in audio settings run with the same principles. Needless to say, audio interface settings and DAW audio settings are one in the same. Having an audio interface simply reduces the amount of processing power taken from your computer. Having an audio interface may allow you to record at 48KHz/ 32-bit. While your computer by itself may only be able to handle 44.1KHz/ 16-bit.
- Overview of saving templates for future sessions (Workflow).
We will get into workflow and templates with greater detail in some later lessons. But I figured I'd touch on the subject while talking about efficiency.
Most DAWs allow the saving of ‘Templates’ or a default layout designed by you for your specific needs. If you grab the same couple of tools every time you open your DAW, you can save time by creating a template which has those tools opened already.
Work flow is the unique step by step process that you as an individual goes through when creating. Workflow in other words is your way of doing things. Your workflow can change over time and sooner or later you’ll find a groove that allows you to work efficiently and effectively. Optimizing your workflow enhances your speed, providing less resistance between ideas to execution when creating. Increasing your productivity level.
Only time can help you find the set of patterns you’ll develop in your creation process. Your unique way of working is your workflow.
_________________________________________________________________
In summary,
Optimizing your computer by minimizing the amount of processes it goes through at any given moment will promote stability in your machine. Providing a smoother creation experience.
Over time you’ll develop habits, tricks, and ways of doing things that are unique to you. Creating DAW templates that promote your unique way of working optimizes your workflow thus proving more efficiency.