Getting Started: Beat Making
Are you looking into making beats but aren’t sure what you need? Do you need a piano, bass, guitar, microphone, a booth, etc.? Well before you go breaking the bank for a bunch of gear you won’t need yet, check out this list and maybe you can get started a lot quicker than you think.
Now there always exception to these lists, but this is what has worked for me.
Computer/Laptop/MPC
Three things to remember when choosing your Computer
1.Hard disk space.
2.A good processor.
3.RAM or random access memory. The more of this you have, the better your beat making and recording process will be. RAM (pronounced as ramm), is the physical hardware inside a computer that temporarily stores data, serving as the computer's "working" memory. Additional RAM allows a computer to work with more information at the same time, which usually has a considerable effect on total system performance.
Software/Hardware
Ableton Live, Logic Pro, Pro Tools, FL Studio, Acid Pro, Reason.
DAW or Digital Audio Workstations is where the magic will happen. This will be where you mix, compose, record and fine tune your ideas. Some software is specific to the operating system you want to use. For example: If you choose to go with with a Mac, you have options like Logic Pro which isn’t offered on Windows or Garage band which usually comes with your Mac. I personally have been using Ableton Live and absolutely love it. I started with FL Studio and Acid Pro. Again it really comes down to what you feel more comfortable with.
Another item you will need some times will be an interface. An audio interface is a piece of hardware that expands and improves the sonic capabilities of a computer. ... They're an absolutely essential component in computer-based audio production. They're used for recording music and podcasts, and in video post production for recording voice-overs and sound design. For more information on that you can view this video.
Sounds and Plug-ins
Now, you will need sounds. Drums, voices, pianos, etc. You can usually find sounds with the DAW you decide to use since most of them will offer sounds and plugins. You can always create custom sounds with any plugin you choose as well. Another option is to record your own sounds or look for sounds or sample packs online. Whatever you decide to do, never stop building your library.
Not to oversimplify it but, that’s what you need to get started. Some other items you might want to get.
Monitors
Headphones
Mics
Cables
Those are the most basic things you will need. You might also want to look into getting a midi keyboard as well. I didn’t provide pricing, or links to the software. I just wanted to give you a starting point to those who have the desire but have no idea how to go about it. What do you use to make music?
UNEAK