Punch In / Punch Out
Definition
A recording technique where the DAW switches from playback to record mode at a precise point (punch in) and back to playback at another (punch out), allowing a specific section to be re-recorded without affecting surrounding material.
In Simple Terms
Re-recording just a specific section of a performance without touching the rest. Your DAW switches to record at the spot you choose, captures the fix, and switches back. Faster than re-recording the whole thing.
In Practice
The engineer punches in at bar 12 and out at bar 16 to re-record a single phrase in the vocal performance without disturbing the rest of the take.