While there are recording apps for iOS from GarageBand on up, Auria is the very first app to call itself a pro-level Digital Audio Workstation (DAW), and even within the memory and processor limitations of the latest iPad, we’re stunned by what we see -- and hear.

Auria delivers up to 48 tracks of audio processing power (no MIDI) on the new iPad and iPad 2 (and 24 tracks on an original iPad), with up to 96K audio recording quality, which is an amazing technical feat; and when used with a supported external audio interface via the USB camera connection kit, you’ll be able to record more than a single track at a time.

The app itself is a study in clean, efficient interface design, and delivers a smooth set of faders, responsive controls, and a quick learning curve. There are two main screens: the mixer and the waveform editing timeline, plus a slick channel strip sporting the EQ, compressor, and effects inserts (up to 4 at a time), all with pristine sonic quality. The eight buses allow you to instantly control groups of related tracks – say, eight separate percussion tracks into a main drums bus, or a few backing vocal tracks into a secondary vocals bus; an essential feature for real-world mixing.

The onscreen waveform editing is slick and tasty, with full gesture support, trimming, and envelope controls for instant fade ins and outs, and other types of track automation. While we probably don’t want to trade away our mice just yet for precision editing, we’re impressed with the amount of control we found. Working files can be saved in AAF format and imported into Logic and Pro Tools, among other desktop programs. There's also an excellent delay, a very smooth reverb, and a totally useful tool for pitch correcting out-of-tune vocals and instruments. Plus, you can “freeze” effects for maximum CPU efficiency – a very welcome touch.

The bottom line. Even though it weighs in at the high end of the app price scale, Auria is the first full-fledged DAW available for iPad, and offers pro-level power, a slick interface, and lots of room for growth.

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Auria

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  Eight subgroup busses allow easier management of up to 48 tracks as related groupings, such as vocals, guitars, and drums.

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  The comprehensive waveform editor lets you dive deep into editing audio.

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  The excellent EQ, Expander, and Compressor all contribute to Auria’s outstanding audio quality.

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  The built-in Convolution IR reverb is something typically seen in higher-end desktop solutions.

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  The built-in third-party plugin store means lots of expansion potential for the future.

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