What do You Actually Need for Electronic Music Production?

           The world of electronic music production is a broad and thrilling one. It is filled with limitless possibilities for creativity. However, it can also seem daunting. Especially if you are just a beginner. In this article, we will classify what you need to begin in electronic music production. This can be for those who are low in budget or planning to invest in high-quality equipment. This will serve as your guide towards the essentials of electronic music production.

The Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)

           Let us start with the Digital Audio Workstation (DAW), or the heart of your music production setup. This is where you will arrange, produce, and create your music. FL Studio, Ableton, and Reaper are some of the popular DAWs in the market.

 Reaper, specifically, is an incredible and budget-friendly option. It also works on Linux, PC, and Mac. Moreover, it is accessible to everyone because it offers a long free trial period. This will allow users to gain more familiarity with the capabilities, workflow, and features of the software. It can allow users to explore the DAW at their own pace. They can experiment with different techniques and tools without any pressure. This will grant users the ability to determine if the DAW lines up with their preferences and artistic needs.

           Built-in tools are bundled with your DAW. However, you are provided with elevating its capabilities using external plugs. Synthesizers, mixing tools, effects, and samplers are inclusions of these plugins. They will be discussed in more detail later.

Working with Sounds

           Sound sources are needed to create electronic music. There are two predominant methods to work with sounds: samples and synthesizers.

           Samples are audio files just like MP3s or WAVs. You can map them to a drum sampler to create build drum kits. As well as to keyboard for melodies. These allow users to use a broad range of sounds in their music production. Furthermore, mapping samples lets you customize your instrument setups.

You have the power to create your drum kit by picking certain drum sounds that can match your production setup. You can also allocate unique sounds to various keys on a keyboard to create your melodies. An example of a remarkable resource for accessing a wide variety of samples is Splice Sounds.

           Using presets created by others or generating sounds from scratch is made possible by synthesizer plugins. These are digital instruments that mirror the functionality of hardware synthesizers within a software environment. They allow users to manipulate and create sound by generating audio signals using different synthesis techniques.

Moreover, synthesizer plugins can be accessed easily by a wide scope of producers and musicians. They disregard the need for expensive hardware synthesizers. They provide seamless availability of advanced sound synthesis techniques to anyone virtually with a DAW and computer.

Powerful plugins that offer a broad range of sounds and presets are Vital and Serum. They have garnered popularity among sound designers and music producers. These plugins are both well-documented and user-friendly. Producers of all skill levels, even beginners, can access them easily. Furthermore, they have ample preset libraries that cover a broad spectrum of sounds. You can explore the parameters and modulation options as you work with the presets. This will slowly build your understanding of synthesis techniques.

Shaping Sounds

           Tools are needed for you to refine and shape the sounds that you have. The synthesizer or sampler plugins, as well as your DAW, have essential tool inclusions.

EQ (Equalization): To adjust the balance of frequencies in your tracks, EQ is there to help. Additionally, it will help in elevating the impact and clarity. The EQ eliminates unwanted frequencies or highlights essential ones. This can help your vocals and instruments stand out.

Compression: For you to shape your sound and even out your audio levels, compression is needed. It is particularly beneficial for dynamic elements and vocals in your mix. Moreover, compression makes your sound more controlled and consistent. This is because it can lessen the difference between loud and soft parts.

Reverb and Delay: A sense of ambiance and environment will be created after using these effects. They will add depth and space to your sounds. This is due to its ability to stimulate the acoustic environment where the sound exists.

Distortion: This tool will help your sounds stand out in your mix. Moreover, distortion attaches character and spirit to your sounds.

Hardware and Listening Environment

           Although the software is important, hardware to interface with your tools is also needed. Here’s what you’ll need:

Computer: Electronic music production can use almost any computer. More benefits are of course offered by more powerful computers. However, you should not allow limitations to hold you back. You can start with whatever computer you have.

Headphones: A good pair of headphones with flat frequency response is a must when you are just starting. An example is the Audio-Technica ATH-M50. They supply precise sound reproduction despite being affordable. This is the reason why it is perfect for beginners.

MIDI Controller (Optional): This will allow you to record and play musical parts into your DAW. It may not be essential, but it can give great enhancement to your creative process.

Learning Resources:

           Investing time to learn and practice is a must for you to master electronic music production. You do not need to worry because there are a lot of resources available.

YouTube: There are a great number of guides and tutorials on YouTube that can teach you the basics of electronic music production.

Online Courses: Skillshare and Udemy are examples of platforms that give comprehensive courses in music theory, music production, and specific genres.

           When starting in electronic music production, it does not have to be expensive or overwhelming. As long as you invest in the essentials, like plugins, hardware, learning resources, and DAW, you are ready to begin your journey into the world of electronic music production. You can start small and experiment. Above all, enjoy creating your unique tracks and sounds. Your creativity is limitless, and the possibilities are endless. Happy music-making!