Start recording by clicking the "File" drop-down list, selecting "New" then selecting the type of project you want to record. Some of the options include 4 track, 8 track, 16 track, 24 track, and tailored projects like Classical Full Orchestra, Drums, MIDI track recording, and Jazz recording projects. In the record window that opens, select an input for the instrument that you want to record and name it by clicking the text field at the top of the track window and typing in the name. Click the record button to enable the track and play the instrument to check the recording levels. Finally, press the "R" key or the "Record" button in the transport toolbar and record your audio. Stop recording by pressing the space bar or press the "Stop" button in the transport toolbar.
Adjust the latency settings in the program if you hear pops and clicks in the recorded music. Click "Options," then "Audio," then "Options" and adjust the latency settings with the slider, moving it from fast to safe. This increases the size of the buffer, but may also increase the delay time between when you play a note and when it is recorded. You can also try changing the sample rate to a lower setting, especially if you are trying to record at 24 bit, 96 kHz. Decrease the setting to CD-quality 16 bit, 44.1 kHz.
Sonar supports both VST and DirectX plug-ins. If you can't find installed VST plug-ins from Sonar, you may need to tell the program where to look. Click "Open," then "Global," then "VST Plug-ins." Press the "Add" button, then navigate to the folder where you have installed your VST plug-ins and click "OK." If you can't find a DirectX plug-in, click Tools, then "SONAR Plug-in Manager," then click "Excluded." Highlight the type of plug-in from the drop-down list and click "Enable Plug-in."