Anyone can get into music production, you don’t need to have specific qualifications, though, they can help. You’ll find so many products aimed towards producers, but what are the basic tools? What are the must-haves to get started?
If you’re looking to produce your own music, you don’t need to rush out and buy everything at once. Especially the most expensive brands you come across. If you have the funds to do so, great. However, make sure you’ve done your research first, because having a high price tag doesn’t mean it’s the best option for you.
It will come at an expense, starting out in music production. However, over time, this equipment typically pays for itself. But, avoid having to buy twice by making sure these are the right products for you from the start. There are some pieces of equipment you can’t live without, while others you might expand over time.
Below are the pieces of equipment you will need to produce music at home.
Powerful desktop computer or laptop
A good quality laptop, or desktop computer is vital. Without it, you cannot create music. It will become a storage space for you, as well as the place you edit your tracks. Your laptop or desktop must be of high quality. Something lower quality will struggle to handle the file sizes you’ll be using. It’s important your chosen computer can run the programs you’ll need too.
Music producers often use an Apple iMac or a Macbook Pro. This isn’t suggesting alternatives cannot be used, but, these have been found to be really useful. They’re high quality, can run multiple programs at once without slowing down or coming into problems, and they’re reliable. It might be an investment, but having a good computer is a must.
Digital Audio Workstation
A DAW is a Digital Audio Workstation. This is a computer program which is used for software editing, recording of music, and creating audio tracks. It’s where all the magic happens essentially. You’re able to play around with your sounds and create something you want to share. It will all be stored in your DAW.
Musical Instrument Digital Interface
You’ll also need a good MIDI which is short for Musical Instrument Digital Interface. It is a keyboard which you can use to compose your music. It’s more technical than a standard keyboard though. You will have the control over your music tracks with this equipment, allowing you to reach your desired sound.
Audio interface with an A/D converter
Audio interfaces are a must for any level of music producer. Interfaces with an A/D converter are how your audio signal reaches your computer. Without it, you aren’t able to connect your sound to your computer. It is hardware used for connecting your music. These come in different prices ranges as with all music equipment. It’s important you choose the right one for you.
Microphone
If you’re adding your own vocals into a track, you need a decent quality microphone. Music producers both beginners and advanced will need a microphone regularly. However, it depends on your budget to which you go for. This is a tool you can over time upgrade. So, you don’t need the very best to start out. But avoid going too cheap because quality is important if it’s recording your vocals.
