Just dipping your toes into the ocean of electronic music production, or maybe you’re diving back in after some time away? To craft something truly special, you’re going to need a solid starting setup.
Creating electronic tunes is about more than just passion and artistry – the tech you use plays a pivotal role in turning your sonic dreams into reality.
Let’s guide you through the music production starter kit that every aspiring producer must have to create outstanding soundscapes.
Armed with these key pieces, your journey into sound evolution is bound to be limitless.
A Beginner’s Guide to Music Production: The Four Must-Haves
Your music production adventure will gradually unfold as you immerse yourself in practice and experimentation.
Many veteran producers boast vast arsenals of complex tools or software suites that aid them in achieving their musical vision.
Nevertheless, for those just starting out, what truly matters is a peaceful space plus four essential gadgets.
An ideal location is a distraction-free zone where you’re free to record and create – ideally acoustically treated to minimize echoes, though that’s a luxury that may not be immediately attainable for rookies.
With your personal space organized, you’re ready to gear up technologically.
Similar to the way a track is built from beats, melodies, and vocals, your home studio is defined by several critical elements such as:
Selecting a Computer for Dance Music Production
In our digital age, your computer is the cornerstone of your music creation voyage. You’ll rely on it not just for crafting tunes but also for safely storing them. Even a budget-friendly laptop can initially serve you well.
Contemporary laptops generally boast the required RAM and processors to effortlessly run music software.
As you bolster your electronic music production knowledge, you can transition to more powerful equipment. A top-notch laptop is advisable for those desiring to record and mix on the move.
One bonus? Your music production laptop can double as your trusty DJ sidekick during gigs.
On the other hand, if you’re establishing a permanent recording studio, a desktop computer may be your best ally. While less mobile than a laptop, desktops pack a punch when it comes to handling hefty files.
Choosing between a Mac or PC for your musical endeavors ought not cause too much headache. Presently, both platforms are superbly equipped to support a range of premier mixing applications. Opt for what feels intuitive to you and care for it diligently.
Keeping your computer in tip-top shape is vital.
If you’re torn between which one to pick, take a glance at our recommendations below for both macOS and Windows systems – desktops and laptops alike.
Our Top Computer Recommendations
macOS Desktop Pick
Apple iMac 27″
CPU: Intel i5 | Graphics: AMD Radeon Pro 570x | RAM: 16GB (base) | Storage: 1TB SSD
macOS Laptop Alternative
Apple MacBook Pro 2019
CPU: Quad-core i7 | Graphics: Intel Iris Plus 655 | RAM: 16GB | Storage: 512GB SSD
Windows Desktop Choice
Dell XPS 8930
CPU: Intel i7 | Graphics: Nvidia GTX 1050Ti 4GB | RAM: 16GB | Storage: 512GB SSD
Windows Laptop Option
Dell XPS 7930 13.3″ Laptop
CPU: 10th Gen i7 | Graphics: Intel UHD 620 | RAM: 16GB | Storage: 1TB SSD
Finding Your Ideal Electronic Music Production Computer
Once you’re clear on your preferred operating system and whether you’re leaning more towards a laptop or desktop, it’s key to ensure your chosen machine is packed with the right tech specs.
Your capacity to tackle various workloads is decided by:
Kickstarting with Music Production Software: Selecting Your DAW
With your computer choice locked in, it’s time to consider your Digital Audio Workstation. Essentially, this is where you’ll conduct the orchestra of your music production.
For novices, picking the ideal music production software can seem daunting. It’s often wise to dip your toes into various DAW pools by trying out some free versions available online.
Mac users can even kick off with GarageBand as it’s ready and waiting for you already.
DJs and music producers differ wildly in their DAW preferences. Some root for apps like Ableton Live, others swear by Logic, and so on.
Let’s peek at some of the revered “industry-standard” DAW options:
Ableton Live
Available for both Mac and PC, Ableton Live stands out as a robust DAW that excels in live performance compositions. DJs appreciate its session view for managing and triggering audio seamlessly during sets.
Discover more about Ableton in our thorough comparison article “Ableton vs Logic Pro” right here.
Ableton Live 10 offers three pricing tiers: Intro, Standard, and Suite. Nab the best deal by clicking on the buttons below.
Logic Pro X
This industry heavyweight is a Mac exclusive that can be thought of as GarageBand on steroids, packed with advanced recording, mixing, and mastering features. Logic also shines in live theatre production, especially when teamed up with the Mainstage software.
Grab it directly from the App store by clicking here.
Cubase Pro
Cubase, which is Mac and PC-friendly, is celebrated for its beginner-friendly interface. Loaded with a vast selection of instruments and sounds, embarking on your music-making has never been easier.
Purchase it at advantageous prices here.
FL Studio
This comprehensive DAW is compatible with both Mac and Windows OS. Not only ideal for starters, but it also offers extensive editing capabilities to finesse your tunes into masterpieces.
Snag it here and start downloading without delay.
Keep in mind, once you’ve settled on your DAW, devote the necessary dedication to become adept at using it.
While the DAWs highlighted above are relatively beginner-friendly, any software warrants a period of acclimatization.
Luckily, most DAWs are equipped with handy tips and tutorials within their “Help” sections.
And, if you ever encounter any snags, a plethora of online tutorials are just a few clicks away.
Gear Essentials for Music Production Starters
The field of pro audio is vast, with an endless array of gadgetry to choose from. Yet, fear not, as we’re here to steer you in the right direction.
After countless audio interface reviews, we’ve identified a selection that will serve any budding artist well. Let’s explore your options.
Picking the Perfect Audio Interface
Following the selection of your computer and DAW, the audio interface is your next critical decision. It unlocks superior audio quality from your machine, allowing you to integrate various elements into your mix, from mics to keyboards.
While your computer may have elementary audio in-ports, to truly fine-tune your sound, built-in cards won’t suffice.
An audio interface gives the privilege of high-grade recording and the finesse of quality monitor and headphone output.
Even with a tight budget for your electronic music arsenal, the investment in a worthwhile audio interface is a part that shouldn’t be skimped on.
Ranging significantly in price, the rule of thumb is the more you can invest, the better the benchmark.
Assess your needs carefully before you shop, considering important aspects like input types and quantity.
For instance, for guitar recording aspirations, a two-channel audio interface is essential to get that string symphony into your DAW.
Your end-goal will naturally dictate which audio interface best suits your workflow. Some devices like the Komplete Audio series by Native Instruments are lauded by vocalists and songwriters.
Truth be told, your choice will be influenced by what you aspire to record. The general thumb rule: investment scales with simultaneous recording requirements.
Our Handpicked Audio Interfaces
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
For those launching their musical journey who need adaptability, durability, and ease-of-use, we highly endorse the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Audio Interface.
This compact powerhouse provides remarkable value with a 2-in-2-out setup, rich-sounding preamps, and an ease of use that’s downright user-friendly.
Advantages
Shortcomings
Selecting Proper Monitors and Headphones
Now we arrive at the equally vital component of your production setup – studio monitors and headphones, the heart of dance music production.
Monitors enable a comprehensive listen of your mix, simulating a live environment, while headphones offer precise focus on individual aspects.
It’s worth pointing out that studio monitors do not represent your standard computer screens; these devices are speakers that deliver sound in its most accurate form, offering you a detailed examination of your creation.
If you’ve never experienced your music through a quality studio monitor, the depth of sound might feel revelatory.
Fortunately, obtaining impressive monitors doesn’t have to empty your pockets.
Monitors are excellent for gauging the collective vibe of your track and envisioning its impact on an audience. Something as seemingly minor as isolation pads can make a world of difference in preserving the sound integrity of your monitors.
Consumer-grade speakers and headphones often artificially enhance sound with extra bass or treble, which is a no-go when your ultimate aim is authenticity in your mix.
Monitors reveal the broader soundscape, while a solid pair of headphones will zone in on every tiny mix detail. Good headphones are like a microscope for sound, clarifying individual instrument lines and focal tones.
Luckily, the current market doesn’t disappoint – there’s an immense variety of both monitors and headphones for all preferences and budgets. When possible, test the gear with a familiar track to vet its efficacy.
Don’t miss our roundup review of the 12 Best DJ Headphones to find your perfect match.
Recommended Studio Monitors
Yamaha HS5 Active Studio Monitors (Matched Pair)
For maximum value for money in the studio monitor realm, the Yamaha HS5 active studio monitors stand out.
Compact yet powerful, they offer a robust range of mid-to-low frequencies and crystal-clear highs. When budget is key, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a better pick.
Benefits
Limitations
Yamaha HS5
$250.00
$199.99
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03/11/2024 07:30 pm GMT
Recommended Headphones…
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2
$199.00
Pros:
Cons:
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03/11/2024 02:10 am GMT
Concluding Thoughts for Music Production Novices
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