The basic requirement for music production is an optimal computer (desktop or laptop) that can meet your music production needs. You can either expand the memory of your existing computer or purchase a new laptop for music production. An efficient PC or a laptop that is compatible with music production will support all the software programmes that are necessary to record, edit, mix and master your music.
A digital audio workstation is a software programme that enables you to record and edit your music. Some of the latest DAWs also allow you to mix and master the music. For beginners, there is a variety of DAWs that are available for free or at a small fee. While purchasing a DAW ensure that it is compatible with your computer for the best results.
An audio interface is a device that helps you record high-quality sounds. It converts the analogue signals produced by vocal and instrumental sounds into digital signals that can be recognised by computers. The quality of the audio is a necessity for professional music production. Hence, even if you are a beginner, invest in an audio interface that has above average specifications and lasts long.
In music production, vocals and instrumentals are recorded using a microphone. For the home recording studio of beginners and amateurs who are working on their own, one or two microphones would suffice. You need to purchase a few other things along with the mics namely, a mic stand, a mic cable and a pop filter. To produce music that sounds professional, a good mic is a requirement.
While editing, mixing and mastering music, headphones or monitors are a must. If you do not plan to master your music yourself and would rather hire someone else to do it, you can buy a pair of closed-back headphones to listen to the music that you have made. But if you want to mix and master your music, you need to buy open-back headphones for optimum results. You can also buy a studio monitor for higher sound precision during mixing if your budget allows it.
Get started on building your home recording studio using these five pieces of equipment and you can produce professional sounding music from the comfort of your home.
