Freeze is a DAW function that temporarily renders the output of a track, including software instruments and effects, to reduce CPU load. The original MIDI and plug-in settings are retained, while the DAW avoids calculating the same processing in real time during playback.
When to freeze a track
Freezing is useful when a session contains many instruments, reverbs, or amp simulators and playback begins to stutter, click, or respond slowly. It can also help a laptop handle a large project while keeping high-quality plug-in settings active.
Editing a frozen track
Many DAWs prevent MIDI notes and some plug-in settings from being edited while a track is frozen. Unfreeze the track to make changes, then freeze it again. The exact controls that remain available vary between DAWs.
How it differs from bouncing
Freezing is intended to be reversible. Bouncing or flattening commits the processed result as new audio and may reduce later editing options. Keep or duplicate the original track before permanently committing it.
Points to watch
External MIDI devices, random sound generation, and sidechain inputs can produce different results when recalculated. Check that automation is included and that reverb or delay tails have not been cut off.
A practical order for reducing load
Check the audio buffer and disable unneeded plug-ins first. If the session is still too demanding, freeze the tracks with the highest CPU use. Processing them one at a time makes the benefit easier to evaluate.
