If you’ve ever wanted to create your own music, you’ve probably thought about how to get started. Ultimately there are 6 essential pieces of music production equipment that beginners need. Music production may seem like a daunting task, especially when you look at the professional setups of your favorite producers. However, it’s possible to dive into music production on a budget without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re aspiring to create electronic music, hip hop beats, or even orchestral compositions, this guide will cover the essential music production equipment every beginner needs.
1. A Computer (Mac or PC)
The first and most obvious piece of equipment you’ll need to start music production is a computer. You don’t need to invest in an expensive, high-end machine right away, but your computer should be capable of running a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) without lagging or freezing.
Recommended Specifications:
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Processor: Intel i5 or higher (or equivalent)
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RAM: 8GB or more (16GB is preferable for larger projects)
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Storage: SSD for faster load times (512GB or more)
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Operating System: Windows 10 or macOS Catalina and up
Your computer will act as the central hub for all your music production work, from creating beats to recording vocals. If you’re on a budget, an entry-level PC or Mac can still get the job done.
2. Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)
A DAW is the software used for recording, editing, mixing, and producing music. It’s your digital studio, and there are many different DAWs to choose from. Some are free, while others can be pricey, but all offer powerful tools to get you started.
Popular DAWs for Beginners:
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Ableton Live Lite – A great free version of Ableton Live, perfect for electronic music.
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FL Studio (Fruity Edition) – Great for beginners, especially in the EDM genre.
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GarageBand (Mac) – Free with macOS, an excellent choice for beginners.
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Reaper – Affordable and feature-rich with a 60-day free trial.
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Logic Pro X (Mac) – Great for those who want to go pro later; however, it’s expensive.
When choosing your DAW, consider your personal preferences and the genre you want to create. Most DAWs come with built-in plugins and sounds, allowing you to start making music right out of the box.
3. Headphones
While studio monitors are essential, headphones are a must-have for when you’re recording vocals or working in a noisy environment. Look for closed-back headphones for recording, as they prevent sound from bleeding into your microphone. For mixing, open-back headphones provide a wider, more natural sound.
Recommended Headphones:
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Audio-Technica ATH-M50x – Great for both recording and mixing.
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Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro – Popular for their comfort and sound quality.
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Sony MDR-7506 – A reliable and affordable choice for beginners.
Investing in a good pair of headphones will give you the accuracy and isolation needed for professional-grade sound.
4. MIDI Controller
A MIDI controller is a keyboard or pad-based instrument used to control virtual instruments (synthesizers, drum machines, etc.) in your DAW. It’s especially useful for electronic music producers and anyone who wants to add more expressiveness to their work.
Top MIDI Controllers for Beginners:
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Akai MPK Mini – A compact and affordable option with pads and knobs.
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Novation Launchkey Mini – A versatile controller that integrates well with Ableton Live.
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Arturia KeyLab Essential 49 – A larger, feature-rich keyboard for those looking for more control.
Even if you’re not a keyboard player, a MIDI controller can open up new possibilities and streamline your production process.
5. External Hard Drive
As a beginner producer, you will likely start accumulating a lot of samples, plugins, and projects. An external hard drive helps you keep your files organized and prevents your computer’s storage from filling up too quickly. With technological advances storage has become cheaper than ever. You drive should be a terabyte large at minimum.
Recommended External Hard Drives:
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Seagate Backup Plus 1TB – Reliable, portable, and affordable.
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Western Digital My Passport 2TB – Large storage capacity for all your files.
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Samsung T5 Portable SSD – Fast read/write speeds for quick access to your files.
6. Music Production Software – Introducing Trax
To truly elevate your music production, you need to build you presence on music networking platforms. Trax offers beginners a user-friendly, low-barrier solution to collaborate remotely and enhance their skills through a community-driven model. By leveraging the power of partnerships and integrating with established music production software, Trax has positioned itself as the go-to platform for emerging independent artists worldwide. Exchange feedback and remix or make edits in real time, all from the comfort of your own home through the use of our virtual jam rooms. Buy and sell beats, backtracks, sound packs, and instrumentals on the digital marketplace to build a client base, all without the need for expensive studio gear or close geographical proximity.
6 Essential Pieces of Equipment Every Beginner Needs to Start Music Production: Final Thoughts
Starting out in music production may seem overwhelming, but with the right equipment, you’ll be on your way to making music in no time. The basics include a computer, DAW, audio interface, monitors, headphones, MIDI controller, and a microphone. As you grow and refine your skills, you can add more advanced tools to your setup.
Remember, your music doesn’t have to sound perfect at first. Focus on learning and experimenting with the tools at your disposal. Over time, you’ll develop your own style and techniques, and your music production journey will be full of rewarding growth.
Ready to start your music production journey?
If you’re serious about making music, don’t wait any longer. Get the right equipment, dive into your DAW, and begin creating the music that’s inside you!