What You Actually Need to Start Making Music Today
When you're starting out as a music producer, it's easy to get overwhelmed by the sheer amount of gear out there. But let’s cut through the noise—saving money should be a top priority. Start with the absolute essentials, and as you grow, consider buying or selling gear on platforms like Marketplace to get exactly what you need when you need it. Focus on learning and collaboration—there are countless free resources available that can teach you more than any expensive piece of gear. In fact, investing in a local mentor or teacher often brings more value than splurging on the latest tech. Remember, the best gear is the gear you already have. Here’s the must-have list to kick off your music production journey without breaking the bank.
What You Actually Need to Start Making Music Today
Computer
Digital Audio Workstation
Audio Interface
MIDI Controller
Microphone
Software
Headphones
Studio Monitors
Subscriptions and Sample Libraries
Training and Tutorials
What You need to Know to Get Started
Final Thoughts
1. Computer
Your computer is the backbone of your entire setup. The best computer you can use when you’re starting out is the one you got. Producing audio doesn’t require as much power as video, you can get good result with an older machine. If you don’t already have one, this will be your biggest investment. Thankfully, there are affordable options that offer plenty of power for music production.
MacBook Air M3
MacBook Air M3 is a top pick for its balance of power, portability, and price. The sillicon chip provides incredible processing speed, making it a solid option for running DAWs like Ableton or Logic Pro X with multiple plugins.
It’s lightweight, making it ideal for on-the-go production, and while it’s not as expensive as the Pro models, it can handle complex projects with ease. If you’re producing on a budget but need high performance, the MacBook Air is a no-brainer.
If you’d like to save some money, you can get the M2, or even the M1. The are plenty of refurbished and used ones out there. Personally, I’m still using the M1 I bought 4 years ago and it works like a charm.
PC
For Windows users or those looking to build a custom desktop, the best PC would be one with at least 16GB of RAM and an SSD for faster load times and more efficient processing.
A desktop can often provide more value for money, as you can upgrade parts as needed. If you’re comfortable building your own machine, you can optimize it for music production, saving on costs while still packing a punch. Whether you’re running Pro Tools, Ableton, FL Studio, or most other DAWs.
I’ll admit I’ve never owned a PC, but I’ve heard good things about the Dell XPS, the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Pro, the Razer Blade 15 Studio Edition, and even the Microsoft Surface Pro 9.
A solid PC can give you power and flexibility at a lower price point than many high-end laptops. Do a bit of research before you buy, and get the one that offers the best value according to your needs.
2. Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)
The DAW you choose is where your music will come to life, so finding one that fits your workflow and style is essential. This is where you’ll record sound and MIDI, arrange and mix your tracks. Thankfully, there are some great options for all budgets and needs.
Ableton Live Intro
Ableton Live Intro is a fantastic choice for electronic music producers or anyone who likes to experiment with beats and sounds. Even in its Intro version, Ableton provides an intuitive interface that’s perfect for beginners while offering plenty of depth for more advanced users.
The session view makes it easy to jam and arrange ideas on the fly, and the included instruments and effects are robust. Ableton’s MIDI capabilities are among the best, making it an ideal choice if you plan to work with external controllers or perform live. Plus, the upgrade path to Ableton Live Standard or Suite means you can expand your setup as your skills grow.
I switched to Live many years ago, and I’ve never looked back. Of all the DAWs I’ve tried, this is the easy to produce a track from start to finish.
Logic Pro + GarageBand
Logic Pro X is the go-to DAW for many producers working on Mac. It’s an all-in-one solution with a wealth of built-in instruments, effects, and samples. While it’s only available for Mac users, it provides incredible value for its one-time price, especially considering the professional tools it offers.
The interface is clean and easy to navigate, making it great for both beginners and seasoned producers. Logic’s stock plugins are top-tier, so you won’t need to splurge on third-party effects right away. If you’re looking for a DAW that can handle everything from beats to full orchestral compositions, Logic Pro X is hard to beat.
For those who are just starting out and want to keep things completely free, GarageBand is an excellent entry point. Don’t let its simplicity fool you—GarageBand comes packed with useful features, including a wide array of virtual instruments, basic recording and mixing capabilities, and a user-friendly interface. I
t’s perfect for learning the basics of music production without any financial commitment. You can create entire songs, from recording live instruments to programming drums, all within the confines of a free program that’s already installed on your Mac.
FL Studio
Despite its idiosyncrasies, FL Studio is a favorite among producers, particularly in hip-hop and EDM circles, thanks to its easy-to-use interface and powerful features. Its pattern-based workflow makes creating beats intuitive, and the step sequencer is a standout feature for programming drums and melodies.
FL Studio comes with a wide range of built-in instruments and effects, so you can start producing right away without third-party plugins. It’s also great for automation and offers a lifetime of free updates, meaning you never have to worry about buying a new version. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced producer, FL Studio offers an affordable and flexible solution for all kinds of music production.
3. Audio Interface
An audio interface is the essential tool for connecting your instruments, microphones, and monitors to your computer. It acts as the translator between your analog gear and your digital setup, so a reliable interface is a must.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is one of the most popular audio interfaces for beginners and pros alike. It’s affordable, durable, and has everything you need to start recording. The Scarlett 2i2 comes with two inputs, allowing you to record vocals and instruments simultaneously, and it’s known for its high-quality preamps that deliver clear, professional sound. Focusrite also provides software to get you started, making it an all-around solid choice for your home studio.
Audient iD4
For those looking for a bit more quality and long-term durability, the Audient iD4 is a step up in both build quality and sound. It features one of the best preamps in its price range, making it perfect for recording vocals or instruments with exceptional clarity. It’s still within an affordable range for beginners but offers a slightly more premium experience than other budget options. The build quality feels professional, and the controls are intuitive, making it a great choice if you're serious about recording.
UAD Volt 2
Another excellent option is the UAD Volt 2, combining affordability with Universal Audio’s renowned sound quality. The Volt 2 stands out with its built-in vintage preamp effects, inspired by classic 610 tube preamps, which can add rich warmth and character to your recordings. It offers high-quality 24-bit/192kHz conversion, making it ideal for pristine sound capture whether you’re recording vocals, instruments, or podcasts. Plus, with its sturdy build, MIDI I/O, and compatibility with both Mac and PC, it’s a fantastic choice for both home studios and mobile setups.
4. Microphone
A solid microphone is essential for recording vocals, instruments, or even sampling sounds. While dynamic mics are great for live performance, a condenser microphone will give you the detail and sensitivity needed for studio recording.
Shure SM57
The Shure SM57 is a legendary dynamic microphone known for its toughness and versatility. It's widely used for miking guitar amps, snare drums, and even vocals in live settings, thanks to its directional cardioid pickup pattern, which reduces background noise. Its durability makes it a top pick for studios and stage use, and it's affordable for beginners or professionals alike. Though it’s not as sensitive as a condenser mic, it delivers consistent, reliable sound, making it a staple for any recording setup.
For vocals, the ubiquitous SM7b is a solid choice that allows you to get could takes with minimal ambient noise.
Rode NT1
The Rode NT1 is a condenser microphone prized for its incredibly low self-noise (just 4.5dB), which makes it ideal for capturing pristine, detailed recordings without any unwanted hiss. It’s great for recording vocals, acoustic instruments, and even quiet sound sources, offering clear, warm sound reproduction. The NT1’s cardioid pattern ensures excellent off-axis rejection, making it ideal for untreated spaces. Its high sensitivity and wide frequency range make it perfect for capturing nuanced performances in home or professional studios.
Lewitt LCT 440 PURE
The Lewitt LCT 440 PURE is a studio-grade condenser mic that offers a crisp and modern sound profile, with exceptional clarity across the frequency range. It’s versatile enough for vocals, instruments, or podcasting, making it a great all-around performer. What sets it apart is its transparency—capturing clean, uncolored recordings with minimal distortion. The LCT 440 PURE’s sturdy build, stylish design, and high sensitivity make it a solid investment for producers looking to elevate their recordings with professional-quality sound on a budget.
5. MIDI Controller
A MIDI controller is your gateway to virtual instruments, beats, and sounds. It allows you to play and manipulate software instruments in real-time, giving your productions a more hands-on feel.
Akai MPK Mini
The Akai MPK Mini is a budget-friendly option that packs a punch. Its compact size makes it ideal for small studio setups or producers on the move. It features velocity-sensitive keys, pads, and knobs, allowing you to control various parameters in your DAW. It’s especially great for beatmakers who want to program drums with the pads and experiment with melodies on the keyboard. Plus, it’s often bundled with software, so you can get started right out of the box.
In the same range of prices, the Arturia Minilab and the Novation Launchkey are also solid picks. It all comes down to your preferences in terms of the feel of the keys and the features offered.
Ableton Push
For those diving deep into Ableton Live, the Ableton Push is the ultimate controller. It’s specifically designed to integrate seamlessly with Ableton, offering an intuitive workflow that makes beatmaking, sound design, and live performance a breeze. The pads are highly responsive, and the colorful, LED-lit grid makes it easy to stay organized while creating music. Though it’s a bigger investment, it’s worth it if you’re planning to use Ableton as your primary DAW, as it unlocks even more potential within the software.
6. Software VST Plugins
When it comes to plugins, it’s easy to go down a rabbit hole of options, but the reality is that most DAWs come with fantastic stock plugins that can take you a long way. Learning to use these effectively can be more valuable than buying expensive third-party VSTs right out of the gate.
Many producers, including big names like Mura Masa and Grimes, rely heavily on stock plugins. There’s something liberating about working within limitations, and it can push you to be more creative. Start with the basics: EQ, compression, reverb, and delay. Mastering these tools will give you a strong foundation, and once you’ve maxed out their potential, you can start exploring third-party options to enhance your sound further.
When you choose your DAW, take a look at the set of plugins each one offers, it will probably influence your sound down the line. I’m personally a big fan of Ableton Live’s VSTs, but Logic and FL Studio also have some very cool digital tools.
That being said, if you really want to get some VST plugins, just know there are a lot of very good free options out there. Check out our VST section for more info!
7. Headphones
A good pair of studio headphones is crucial, especially if you’re producing in a space where you can’t crank up speakers. You need headphones that provide accurate sound, so you can hear your mix clearly and make adjustments with confidence.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is a go-to for many producers because of its excellent sound quality and durability. These headphones are built to last and deliver a clear, well-balanced sound that’s perfect for monitoring your mixes. The M50x is comfortable for long sessions, and its relatively affordable price point makes it a top pick for those looking to get serious about their sound without splurging on ultra-high-end gear.
Sennheiser HD650
The Sennheiser HD650 is a top-tier choice for anyone serious about accurate sound reproduction. Known for its smooth, natural sound, the HD650 excels in both mixing and mastering situations. These open-back headphones deliver a spacious soundstage, providing a balanced and precise listening experience that helps reveal subtle details in your mix. While they might not be ideal for noisy environments due to sound leakage, their comfort and clarity make them a favorite among professionals who value high-fidelity, transparent audio in quieter settings.
8. Studio Monitors
Studio monitors are one of the most crucial elements in a music producer’s setup, offering accuracy and clarity that regular speakers can’t provide. Choosing the right monitors is essential for making informed decisions in mixing and mastering, so here’s a look at three popular options.
PreSonus Eris E3.5
The PreSonus Eris E3.5 is a budget-friendly option perfect for home studios or beginners. These compact monitors offer a balanced sound with a 3.5-inch woven composite driver, delivering clear mids and solid bass response. Despite their size, they provide impressive accuracy, making them great for smaller rooms. Additionally, the front-facing controls and aux inputs make them easy to set up and adjust on the fly.
They are particularly suited for producers who are just starting out and want something reliable without breaking the bank. While they may lack the deeper bass response of larger monitors, they’re fantastic for the price and size.
KRK Rokit RP5
Known for their signature yellow cones, the KRK Rokit RP5 monitors are a go-to choice for many producers, especially in the hip-hop and EDM genres. With a 5-inch woofer and a front-ported design, they deliver deep, punchy bass, making them excellent for beat-heavy production. The RP5’s bi-amp setup ensures clear highs and tight mids, perfect for detailed mixing work.
The Rokit series is popular not only for its sound quality but also for its durable build and modern design. If you’re looking for studio monitors that emphasize bass without sacrificing overall clarity, the KRK RP5 is a solid mid-range option.
JBL 305P
The JBL 305P is a powerful and versatile option for producers who need accurate sound across all frequencies. Its 5-inch woofer and patented Image Control Waveguide provide an immersive, wide soundstage, making it ideal for critical listening and precision in mixing. The JBL 305P MkII offers excellent bass response, but its standout feature is its well-defined mids and highs, ensuring clarity across the spectrum.
These monitors are a great choice for those who want professional-level sound at an affordable price. The sleek design and rear-ported bass reflex system add to its overall performance, making it suitable for both home and professional studios.
9. Subscriptions and Sample Libraries
Sound libraries can be a game-changer when you need fresh ideas or want to experiment with different genres. While many DAWs come with built-in loops and samples, subscribing to a service like Splice can unlock a world of high-quality sounds that keep your creativity flowing.
Splice is a top choice for many producers because it offers a huge variety of samples, loops, and presets that cover every genre imaginable. The monthly subscription model makes it affordable, and you can pick and choose what you need without committing to massive sample packs you might not fully use. Plus, Splice’s community features let you collaborate and share projects with other producers, making it a great resource for networking and learning.
10. Training and Tutorials
Learning how to use your gear and develop your skills is just as important as the gear itself. Fortunately, there are countless free resources online to help you get started, as well as paid options for more in-depth learning.
YouTube channels like Andrew Huang and Reid Stefan offer incredible tutorials, many of which are free. These channels cover everything from DAW basics to advanced sound design, and they’re a great way to learn at your own pace.
There are also countless interviews with absolute masters of music production and beatmaking. Go back and watch all the episodes of Genius Deconstructed, or listen to the Tape Note podcast.
But if you’re looking for more personalized guidance, consider finding a local teacher or mentor. Sometimes, paying for a few one-on-one lessons can give you the hands-on feedback that online tutorials just can’t provide.
11. What You need to Know to Get Started
Before you embark on your music production journey, there are a few foundational concepts that will help you hit the ground running. Sound design is where your unique identity as a producer comes to life. Whether you’re shaping synths, layering samples, or tweaking effects, this is where you define the character of your tracks. At the heart of it all is MIDI, the digital language that communicates your musical ideas to virtual instruments and controllers. Plugins, which act as digital instruments and effects, let you manipulate those ideas with creative freedom, and samples—audio snippets—can inject new textures into your tracks. But that’s only part of the process.
Mixing is the step where all your elements come together, ensuring your sounds are balanced and polished, while mastering gives the final touch by optimizing your track for any platform or device. And if you’re planning to work with live instruments or vocals, recording is a must-learn skill. Capturing high-quality audio with a good mic and proper setup will make mixing and production much smoother. Understanding these basics will give you a solid foundation to build on as you bring your musical ideas to life. With these essentials in mind, you’ll be equipped to navigate the creative and technical sides of production, turning your vision into a professional-sounding reality.
12. Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple and Focus on Creativity
Starting out in music production can definitely seem intimidating, but the key is to break it down into small, manageable steps. It’s not about creating a masterpiece from day one; it’s about starting with the tools you have and improving gradually. As a beginner, your enthusiasm and fresh perspective can bring an exciting, raw energy to your tracks.
While more experienced producers may sometimes make it seem like the process is complex—either due to protectiveness over their craft or even jealousy—the reality is, there are no strict rules in music production. What really matters is your creativity, and the technical knowledge will follow naturally as you practice. Don’t be afraid to experiment or make mistakes; growth comes from pushing boundaries, and the journey to improvement is one of the most rewarding aspects of the craft.
At its core, producing music is about keeping things simple. Focus on learning the basics first—like crafting clean, expressive ideas—before adding layers of complexity. Many successful producers started with just a DAW and a couple of basic instruments. By mastering the fundamentals, you’ll not only build confidence but also set yourself up for future growth when expanding your gear.
And remember, your listeners aren’t focusing on the gear or the complexity—they’re connecting with the feeling, energy, and emotion your music conveys. The best part? The road to refining your craft is as fun and exciting as the music you’ll create. So dive in, enjoy the process, and let your creativity guide you!
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Cover credit: William Hall