These are the steps I recommend taking if you want to start making music. Music production is an amazing hobby, but it can also be quite a daunting thing to start. If I was starting again, this is how I would do so:
Step 1: Choose PC or Mac
In terms of specification, I would make sure you can get the best performance you can afford. Music production software can be very resource heavy so I recommend fast CPUs, 16+ GB Ram minimum and 500GB minimum.
Step 2: Choose your DAW - short for Digital Audio Workstation (essentially music software)
Logic: Mac only! Very versatile, great stock sounds. Great for the singer/songwriter. Reasonably Priced.
Ableton: Widely used, more expensive to buy. Very good for electronic music and using for live performance.
Pro Tools: Industry standard for recording bands, less intuitive (for me) but very powerful for recording. Expensive for perpetual license.
Fruity Loops: Popular with EDM and electronic. Suits more loop based music. Can get a basic level of access cheaply.
Other good DAWs include: StudioOne, Reaper, Reason, Cubase
(I currently use Logic but have used all of the above at some point.)
Pro Tip: Many have free trials or are even free. Try a couple and see which you like the feel of before buying.
-- Read my in depth comparison of the most common DAWS here.
Step 3: Choose the essential equipment.
At this point, the minimum you need is a Mac / PC, a DAW and headphones. That is legitimately all you need to START.
However, I would suggest getting a midi keyboard as well to input midi notes. These can control virtual instruments in the software for you to program drums, basslines, synths, pianos, orchestral sounds and many more. You can do this with a mouse, but even a small 25 key midi controller would make life a lot easier for you.
Step 4: Choose Additional Equipment (Optional but recommended)
Normally at this point you would get recommended an audio interface, which is used to connect microphones or instruments to your computer. Also for connecting studio monitors (speakers) to your set up if you just have headphones. Using this takes over your computers soundcard, and as a result can process audio better with latency (less lag.) You can notice an audible difference in sound quality and reduced latency when recording.
Step 5: Learn your DAW
Learn how to use your DAW properly. The main aspect of this is learning how to record and editi audio and midi. Once you have this you can layer up your tracks, then eventually look at how to mix to get your tracks sounding more balanced and professional.
This is all you need to get started. In essence, it is literally three things:
1) A Mac or PC.
2) A free trial DAW - some have unlimited trials but with reduced features.
3) Earbuds / headphones. (I would use some half decent over ear headphones.)
Equipped with this, you now start learning your DAW and can immediately start to write your own music. Good luck!
Comments