Introduction to Social distinction in the 21st recording studio by Amandine Pras

The recording studio represents a creative workplace with audio technology that deserves moreattention from the Social Sciences and Humanities. Since the beginning of the 21st century, thetraditional studio with large console desks and other expensive pieces of analog hardware hasbeen largely replaced by Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) that only require a computer and asound interface, and that include software programs that emulate analog audio technology andacoustic instruments to record, arrange, produce, edit, mix, and master. Being much cheaperand more accessible than analog equipment and large acoustic venues, DAWs offer creationopportunities to musicians who live far from major cities, who may not have access to highermusic education and well-equipped facilities, and/or who come from underdeveloped countries.DAWs also question the need for trained audio professionals as they blur role distinctionsbetween engineers and musicians, and between producers and composers.