Are you new to music production? Or maybe you’ve been using music production software for a while, but you’re not quite sure how to get the most out of it? Either way, we’ve got some great tips and techniques for you.
One of the most important things to remember when using music production software is that there are no hard and fast rules. You can experiment with different settings and see what works best for you.
With that said, here are 15 general tips to keep in mind:
1. Don’t be afraid to try new things
Music production software is all about experimentation. So don’t be afraid to try out new sounds, instruments, or effects. If you’re not sure how something works, just mess around with it until you figure it out.
2. Use a metronome
A metronome is a device that helps you keep time while you’re playing or recording. It’s a valuable tool for beginners and experienced producers alike. Using a metronome will help you stay in time and make sure your tracks are tight.
4. Use a reference track
A reference track is a song that you use for comparison when you’re mixing or mastering your own tracks. Having a reference track can be extremely helpful, as it allows you to A/B your own work and see how it stacks up.
4. Experiment with different sounds
One of the great things about music production software is that you have a virtually unlimited palette of sounds to choose from. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different instruments and effects. You never know what you might come up with.
5. Use EQ to shape your sound
EQ is short for equalization. It’s a tool that allows you to adjust the frequencies of a sound. You can use EQ to make a sound brighter, darker, thinner, or thicker.
6. Use compression to add punch
Compression is an effect that lowers the loudest parts of a sound and raises the quietest parts. Compression can be used to add punch to drums or make a guitar sound more aggressive.
7. Use reverb to add space
Reverb is an effect that simulates the reflections of sound in a space. Using reverb can make a track sound larger and more expansive.
8. Use delay for special effects
Delay is an effect that repeats a sound after a short period of time. Delay can be used to create everything from subtle echoes to complex sounds capes.
9. Get creative with automation
Automation is a feature that allows you to automate the changes of a parameter over time. Automation can be used to make a sound gradually get louder or quieter, or to create other interesting effects.
10. Use MIDI for more control
MIDI is short for Musical Instrument Digital Interface. It’s a protocol that allows electronic instruments and computers to communicate with each other. Using MIDI, you can control virtual instruments, external hardware, and more.
11. Know when to keep it simple
Sometimes, less is more. When you’re starting out, it’s easy to get caught up in all the bells and whistles of music production software. But sometimes, the simplest tracks are the best.
12. Find your own voice
One of the most important things you can do as a producer is to find your own voice. Don’t worry about what’s popular or trendy. Just focus on making the music that you want to make.
13. Work within your limitations
Don’t try to bite off more than you can chew. If you’re just starting out, it’s okay to work with a limited palette of sounds. You can always expand your arsenal as you get more experience.
14. Take breaks
When you’ve been staring at a screen for hours on end, it’s easy to lose perspective. So make sure to take breaks every now and then. Get up and walk around, or just step away from your computer for a few minutes.
15. Have fun
At the end of the day, music production should be enjoyable. So don’t put too much pressure on yourself. If you’re not having fun, then something is probably wrong.
Conclusion:
There’s a lot to learn when it comes to music production. But the best way to learn is by doing.