soundstation

A simple DAW made by Johan Solbakken.

Dependencies

For macos

cd dependencies
cd macos
brew bundle

Build and run

git clone --recursive https://github.com/johansolbakken/soundstation
cd soundstation
mkdir build
cd build
cmake ..
make
cd soundstation
./soundstation

Plan

1. Audio Recording: Users should be able to record audio from microphones and other sources. This includes support for multiple audio tracks.

2. MIDI Support: Incorporate MIDI sequencing capabilities, allowing users to create and edit MIDI data for virtual instruments and external MIDI devices.

3. Audio Editing: Implement basic audio editing features like cut, copy, paste, trim, fade in/out, and time-stretching to manipulate audio clips.

4. Virtual Instruments: Include some basic virtual instruments like synthesizers, samplers, and drum machines. These instruments should be MIDI controllable.

5. Audio Effects: Include a set of basic audio effects like EQ, reverb, delay, compression, and distortion that users can apply to audio tracks.

6. Mixing and Routing: Enable users to mix and route audio and MIDI tracks, including the ability to adjust volume, pan, and send tracks to buses.

7. Automation: Implement automation capabilities for controlling parameters of virtual instruments and effects over time.

8. Arrangement View: Provide a timeline or arrangement view where users can arrange and sequence audio and MIDI clips to create complete songs.

9. Time Signature and Tempo Control: Allow users to set different time signatures and tempos within their projects.

10. Basic File Management: Enable users to save and load projects, import audio files, and export their creations in common audio file formats.

11. User Interface: Design an intuitive and user-friendly interface with features like drag-and-drop functionality, resizable windows, and customizable layouts.

12. Keyboard Shortcuts: Implement keyboard shortcuts to streamline workflow and improve efficiency.

13. Plugin Support: Support for third-party VST/AU plugins, which expand the DAW's capabilities with additional instruments and effects.

14. Basic Mixing and Mastering Tools: Include tools for adjusting levels, panning, and basic mastering processing to ensure the final mix sounds polished.

15. Performance Optimization: Optimize your DAW for efficient CPU and RAM usage to ensure it runs smoothly even on less powerful systems.

16. Basic MIDI and Audio Export Options: Allow users to export their projects as MIDI files or audio files in various formats.

17. Undo/Redo: Implement an undo/redo feature to let users easily correct mistakes.

18. Help and Documentation: Provide user documentation and possibly tutorial resources to help users understand and utilize the software effectively.

19. Project Backup: Automatic project backup and recovery options to prevent data loss.

20. Cross-Platform Compatibility: Consider developing your DAW to run on multiple operating systems (e.g., Windows, macOS, and Linux) for a wider user base.

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