What is a Real-Time Bounce?

A real-time bounce is a method of exporting audio from a digital audio workstation (DAW) where the session is played and rendered at the same speed as normal playback. This means the export process takes the same amount of time as the actual length of the audio being bounced.

During a real-time bounce, the DAW plays the project from start to finish while processing all tracks, plugins, automation, and routing exactly as they occur during normal playback. The resulting audio is recorded into a new file while the session runs.

Real-time bouncing is often used when a project includes external hardware processors, live inputs, or certain plugins that require real-time processing. In these cases, the audio must be played through the system in real time to ensure that all elements are captured correctly in the final export.