Music production is an exciting journey, and to start on this path, you need the right equipment. As a beginner, it's essential to invest in the necessary tools that will allow you to create and produce music effectively. In this blog post, we will go through the necessities you need on the start of your music production career with as low budget as possible.
Right Equipment to Start Your Journey
To start your music production journey, you don't need to put thousands to your music production equipment, but you do need the following key pieces of equipment:
1. Computer
Your computer is the heart of your music production setup. It's where you'll run your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) and create your music. Here are some things that you should consider when choosing a computer:
- Processing Power: A modern computer with a fast processor (CPU) is ideal, as music production can be CPU-intensive, especially if you use a lot of virtual instruments and effects.
- Storage: Music files can take up a significant amount of space, so make sure your computer has ample storage capacity. Consider using an external hard drive for additional storage.
- Operating System: Ensure that your DAW is compatible with your computer's operating system. Some DAWs are Mac-specific, while others are designed for Windows.
2. Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)
The DAW is the software that you'll use to create and arrange your music. There are various DAW options available, and it's essential to choose one that aligns with your needs and preferences. Some popular DAWs for beginners include:
- GarageBand (Mac):If you're using a Mac, GarageBand is an excellent DAW for beginners. It's user-friendly and comes with a range of virtual instruments and loops.
- FL Studio: FL Studio is known for its intuitive interface and is a great choice for electronic music producers.
- Ableton Live: Ableton Live is widely used for electronic and live performance music. It's known for its session view and real-time capabilities.
- Reaper: Reaper is a versatile and cost-effective DAW suitable for various music genres.
See our other blog post on top free DAW's to use in music production
3. Audio Interface
An audio interface is essential only if you plan to record live instruments, vocals, or external audio sources. It acts as a bridge between your instruments and your computer, ensuring high-quality audio capture. When choosing an audio interface, consider the number of inputs and outputs you'll need, as well as the quality of its preamps.
See our other post: Guide to Setting Up Your Audio Interface
4. MIDI Controller
A MIDI controller, such as a MIDI keyboard, is a valuable tool for creating melodies, playing virtual instruments, and controlling your DAW. It's not absolute necessity, but it can significantly enhance your music production experience. You can also create melodies by playing it with your computers own keyboard.
See our other post: Exploring the Different Types of MIDI Controllers
5. Headphones/Speakers
Good-quality headphones or studio monitors are essential for accurately hearing your music and making precise adjustments. Studio monitors are a bit pricier but offer a more accurate representation of your sound. Most laptops have their own speakers so you can start producing music without headphones but it might be hard to make small adjustments with only using speakers.
See our other post: The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Studio Monitors for Your Home Studio
Conclusion
Investing in the right equipment can significantly impact the quality and efficiency of your music production journey. You can start with a modest setup and gradually expand as you become more experienced. Only things you must have in the start of your music production career are a computer, DAW and speakers/headphones. The most important thing is to become comfortable with your equipment and use it to unleash your creative potential in music production.
