How to Record into an Audio Track in Cakewalk Sonar

1. Preparing to Record Audio

Preparing an audio track for recording requires selecting an input source and arming the track to receive signals.

Track Input Controls

A. Input

Selects the hardware input source, such as mono Left/Right or stereo, used to record audio onto the track.

B. Arm

Enables the track for audio recording.

C. Input Echo

Enables real-time input monitoring to hear incoming audio through track effects and processing.

2. Audio Track Recording Controls

Audio tracks provide several settings to manage signal levels, phase, and monitoring during recording.

Signal and Display Controls

A. Record Meter

Displays incoming audio signal levels to monitor for peak clipping.

B. Gain

Adjusts the pre-fader volume level of the track.

C. Phase In/Out

Inverts the phase of the track audio signal by 180 degrees.

D. Mono/Stereo

Switches the track interleave between mono and stereo processing.

E. Display Waveform Preview

Renders a live preview of the audio waveform in the Clips pane during recording.

3. Recording Procedure

Follow these steps to record audio onto an armed track:

Performing a Recording

1. Click the In field on an audio track and select an input source.
2. Click the track Arm button (R) to enable recording on the track.
3. Play your instrument or speak into the microphone to check signal levels on the Record Meter.
4. Press R or click the Record button in the Transport module to start recording.
5. Press SPACEBAR or click the Stop button to finish recording.