Freeze/Commit
Definition
A DAW feature that renders a track’s processing (plugins, virtual instruments) to an audio file, freeing CPU resources. “Freeze” is typically non-destructive and can be undone to restore the original processing chain. “Commit” (or “Bounce in Place”) renders permanently, replacing the original track data.
Context
Freeze and commit are essential workflow tools for managing CPU load in large sessions. In Ableton Live, freezing a track is a common strategy for working with CPU-intensive plugins. In Pro Tools, “Commit” renders the track permanently. The terminology and behavior vary by DAW, but the underlying concept is the same: trade disk space for CPU headroom.