Music production software: Top three programs

admin — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 12:12:28 +0000

The world of music production software can be scary and overwhelming at first. You know you want to start producing your own music, making your own beats, recording, etc. But you have no idea where to begin! This was exactly the problem I had when starting out, and I took the advice of the wrong group of people (the “gurus”) and paid way more than a beginner should pay for music production software. This is an industry that depends on always having new people coming through the woodwork, so I feel it’s my responsibility to help get you started.

First, you need to think about what kind of music you want to produce, as some programs seem to be better for different genres of music. If you are into trance, techno, or other “electronica” types of music I suggest starting with a program called FL Studio, short for FruityLoops. This program is good for this kind of music, but in my opinion is not that beginner friendly, and a little overpriced for a beginner. Expect to drop upwards of $80 to start out in the world of music production software. Also, there is a steep learning curve with this and similar software, so I would move on unless you have significant knowledge of math and sound.

Alot of the people I help get started want to start making “hip hop beats”. They don’t need a thousand dollar fancy program, they just want to get their feet wet. Fortunately, I came across the PERFECT program for people who are new to music production. It’s called Sonic Producer and it’s actually built on browser-based software.

This means that you don’t have to install some clunky program to your harddrive. Do not think that because its browser-based that it’s lacking in quality, because it’s actually the opposite. Sonic Producer comes fully loaded witih FREE music production lessons, a 16 track sequencer, and a sound library that is impressive all by itself. See, after spending hundreds of dollars on software too complicated for me, I turned to Sonic Producer. It’s simplicity, sleekness, and low price are what drew me in. I paid less than thirty bucks in all for one of the sickest music production suites I’ve ever used.

But, maybe you’re not a beginner you say! You DO have audio and math knowledge and are willing to brave the steep learning curve! Well there is hope. While I would recommend Sonic Producer for even intermediate users, some people just want something different. This is why I recommend Reason or Cubase to these people. These programs are top of the line, but it will cost you. From what I remember these programs are a few hundred dollars. But don’t let that steer you away, you’re paying for quality.

As you can see, in the world of digital music production, there’s a little something for everyone. Whether you’re just starting out, kind of know what you’re doing, or you’re the master, there’s a way to get you going. Welcome to the wonderful world of music production!

By: John Paul Jones

Music Recording Software » Sound Library

Music production software: Top three programs