I like Sonars way of slip editing with midi. EG: If I drag a short midi sequence from EZ or Superior Drummer to Sonar and need it longer, I just drag it out to the desired length. In the other DAW I use regularly - I have to copy the midi clip over and over because slip editing only works when shortening ...
 
Also - likely because I grew up on Roland Drum machines, the step sequencer is one of my best friends. I know the PRV is very similar and much more powerful, but I'm more at home with the step sequencer.
 

bitflipper
Runner-up: global effects bypass.

+1 to the global effect bypass...

My favorite underrated plug-in is the Sonitus Multiband compressor. Not only does it have the limit feature so you can do "maximization"-type compressing (as long as you don't take it too far), but if you don't use it as a compressor by setting the ratio at 1:1, it's a great multiband crossover - insert it in the effects bin and solo a band to process only that range of frequencies.

I also need to give a nod to the draw tool for generating waveforms for automation. It's not just that you can create waveforms (tremolo, anyone?) but that it's so easy to vary the height and phase. The random option does instant sample-and-hold effects, which is also cool. I hardly ever see anyone mention this feature.
 

I think Track Templates are under-appreciated in a few ways. Here's a thing I've found handy for recording vocals.
 
Saving a track template with the output set to a bus will also re-create that bus when you insert it in a new project. I've got a template called "Vocal mic in", which is routed to a bus which already has a basic low-cut EQ, the PC2A compressor module and a light reverb on it. Also, the track fires up already armed for record.
 
One really nice detail here is that as you add more vocal tracks, the bus isn't duplicated. Sonar is smart enough to realise it already has that bus. So while laying down multiple vocal tracks, I have a two click method of getting each new track up and ready to record, and already having a compressed and reverb-ed bus for them to run through. Not as you'd use in a final mix, but handy for immediate playback to get some idea of how things are going to sound in the eventual production.

Right now I am really getting into the Take Lanes/Comping features. Love it.
 
Here's what I have been doing:
 
Select a section of the song like Verse.
Set looping for that section.
Now hit record with comping mode on.
Do about ten takes of whatever it is you doing (vocal, bass, guitar)(yes ten takes, bear with me!)
 
After your done, section off the takes about two - four measures with the comp tool.
Now go through the takes and select which section you want to promote.
After you have the whole section decided on, copy and paste the promoted track to a different (new) track.
Repeat the three steps above using different takes from the first time to promote
 
What you end up with is a lot of variation that can be used throughout the song. I have used it for vocals on chorus, back up vocals, lead fills, drum fills, hi hat parts (works great for this! Very human!). The way I see it, it's use is almost endless.
 
One draw back/concern in this method: When you copy and paste the promoted track to a new track, all ten takes come with it. I have a method/work around for eliminating it.

John T
One really nice detail here is that as you add more vocal tracks, the bus isn't duplicated. Sonar is smart enough to realise it already has that bus. So while laying down multiple vocal tracks, I have a two click method of getting each new track up and ready to record, and already having a compressed and reverb-ed bus for them to run through.

Great tip, I'll be making that part of my workflow immediately! Another track template coolness is I have one set up with multiband distortion for guitar - one track, four buses for the split into four bands (see above regarding the tip on the multiband compressor), TH2 inserted, optimized ProChannel settings, etc. all ready to rock.

I like to undock the browser, go to the VST plugin and open up the controller assignment to add automation knobs for the synth.
 

Anderton
I also need to give a nod to the draw tool for generating waveforms for automation. It's not just that you can create waveforms (tremolo, anyone?) but that it's so easy to vary the height and phase. The random option does instant sample-and-hold effects, which is also cool. I hardly ever see anyone mention this feature.
 

 
 
Must try this. Thanks!

arachnaut
 
I like to undock the browser, go to the VST plugin and open up the controller assignment to add automation knobs for the synth.

WOW!! I never knew this!!
 
Opens up a new world!!
 
Thanks!!!
 
Found out that you can also put it (the undocked browser) in the multidock!!

The ability to bounce arpreggiator to midi notes that can be edited. Arpreggiators are great but can be stiff and monotonous. Being able to instantly render out all that is heard from pressing one note or chord opens a lot of flexible ways to edit and add variety.