I know you’re itching to hop in the DAW and start playing around but there will be some things I recommend you get before you start experimenting.
A Laptop
The brand of the laptop doesn’t matter here, but I recommend a laptop with a decent amount of RAM, a fast processor, and large amounts of memory.
Decent Pair of Headphones
Now there are some great producers who have made tracks on earbuds. . .probably, but I recommend getting a decent pair of over-ear headphones with good clarity and bass response. Most producers recommend a pair with a flatter sound profile but it’s really up to preference here.
DAW
Yes, a digital audio workstation. My group at school will be working with FL Studio, but there are a bunch that you can use out there.
- Cubase
- Reaper
- FL Studio
- Logic
- Protools
A Microphone (Optional)
A majority of my club wants to make Hip Hop so to put some vocals in there they’ll need either a decent USB Microphone like a Blue Yeti. Or a combination of a nice XLR Microphone and a USB Interface.
Audio Interface (Optional)
These are essential for getting Audio Signals in and out of a computer. Whether it be from a guitar, a bass, or a microphone, these will allow you to be more flexible with audio output devices as well.
Midi Keyboard(Optional)
These little things are really nice if you want to hear your VSTs(Fancy word for virtual instrument tracks) immediately. Most modern Midi keyboards also come with knobs and pads for playing drum samples. The knobs can be routed to controls in software. If you know how to play the piano and are familiar with music theory you have a leg up on people who don’t. . . ie me.
Sample Packs (Optional)
Unless you want to record every single one of your sounds; possible but a pain, it’s smart to download some sample packs. Do I recommend making your song completely out of things in a sample pack. . . no, because I think that lacks originality. . . well you could always make the sound your own by use, how you mix it etc. What is to stop some other producer from sounding exactly like you?
You don’t have to buy these as there are plenty of good free ones online.
