Producing your own music is a rewarding feat whether you do it for fun as a hobby or if it is your profession. Even with the talent and skill, your creativity can be halted without the proper tools. Here are some of the basic tools you need to produce your music.
Table of Contents
Computer
One of the primary equipment needed is a reliable computer system. Music production in today’s era is already done digitally. It is advisable that the computer system you choose, whether desktop or laptop, can run music software requiring large storage spaces and computer memory.
Music software
The main music software for recording, editing and mixing is the digital audio workstation or DAW. Both free and paid versions of DAW software are available to cater to music production for small studios or for larger and professional setups. There are numerous DAWs available, and differentiating them are the features included and its useability.
Other software available to create music is those specially designed for beat production. The best beat making software has simplistic interfaces yet with complete technical components. Some features they incorporate are samplers, patterns, scenes, synths, instrument groups, audio recorder, support for VST and FX, automation control, arpeggiator control, note-repeat, support for MIDI controllers, and a lot more!
Audio Interface
The prime function of an audio interface is sending the music into your computer during recording and allowing it to be played during playback. It also acts as the bridge between analogue and digital signals. This is particularly helpful for instruments, such as guitars, with limited connectivity options for digital recording.
MIDI Controller
The MIDI or Musical Instrument Digital Interface is essential as it allows the interaction between the physical hardware and DAW. A keyboard controller is the most common MIDI controller. Grid controllers are also available for arranging beats and triggers.
Studio Headphones and Studio Monitors
Quality headphones are indeed a must for music production. One must note that consumer headphones are different from studio headphones, with the latter having specific tunings, dynamics and can provide sound isolation. If you’re interested in studio headphones or other high-quality sound accessories, you could take a look at Graham Slee HiFi.
Studio Monitors or nearfield monitors are the professional terms used for what others may refer to as speakers. However, they are not the same, with studio monitors providing a flat frequency enabling the engineers to hear the sound and correct it accordingly.
Microphones
Any studio production setup will always include a microphone. A studio recording mic captures the sound and converts it into digital form. There are varieties of mics with two major types, condenser and dynamic.
Cables, Stands, Tables, Chairs
Other tools that need mentioning are different types of cables and connectors. Necessary cables needed are an XLR cable and cables that connect the interface to the monitors. Microphone stands are also expected with pop filters for capturing vocals. A proper workstation is also the centre of the studio which can compromise a simple table or a custom mixing desk with a comfortable chair.
Creating your own music does not solely rely on creativity and skills. It helps to have the proper equipment. Newbies can start with basic computer systems, free versions of music software and affordable audio interfaces, controllers, mics and headphones. As your studio progresses to a professional one, you may then improve your equipment and software with the addition of acoustic panels, diffusers, reflection filters, UPS, direct box, just to name a few.
