Destructive and non-destructive edits...

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vicevursa

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Ok, I know this sounds stupid, but I guess I never really understood this, but what is the difference between destructive and non-destructive edits. Is one worse than the other? I am assuming that I probably do a combination of both. I'm thinking that because I don't have a powerhouse system I should probably be more mindful of how I tax my computer...


Vice
 
A destructive effect is one that actually alters the .wav file. While a non-destructive effect (of course) does not alter the .wav file, but instead processes the effect "on the fly".

Non-destructive = good. Because they are completely reversible. You don't like something, you change it.

However, it does take more horespower to run non-destructive effects - simply because your computer must process them simultaneously as it is playing back the track. It is also more difficult (but not impossible) to use a non-destructive effect on just a portion of a track.

If you find you must use destructive effects, first always make a copy of the track and then archive the copy. This way you have the original wave to revert back to - just in case.
 
But can't you just hit the undo button? Could you give me an example of destructive edit. I'm not sure I understand...


Vice
 
You can only use the undo button up to the point where you save and exit the project. When you reopen the project again you are now stuck with whatever destructive edits you have made. (Not always a good thing if, like me, you tend to mix and drink at the same time :) )

A destructive application of effects is anything that you have to use the undo button to get rid of. Normally you should also notice some "processing" going on when you apply a destructive effect.

Non-destructive effects are "patched" onto the track (in the box labeled Fx) and you change or get rid of them by simply opening the effect and making adjustments (double click), or by removing the patch entirely (right click and delete).

If you patch an effect onto a track non-destructively, there will be no "undo" for it - since you haven't actually "done" anything to the track (or the underlying wave). You only have instructed Sonar to filter the wave through that effect when it is played back.
 
Dachay, you are number 1! Ok, I now see clearly what all that means. I see, it becomes destructive when you save and exit... Wow, a light just turned on...


Thanks,
Vice
 
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