I only recommend the tools I love!
It’s important to me to be honest and genuine with my readers. That’s why I only recommend tools I’ve used extensively. In fact, most of the tools I recommend on this page were purchased and used years before this website came into existence. There was no monetary incentive for me to use them. I used them because I wanted to, and I recommend them because they truly helped me.
Best Tool For Learning Synthesis: Syntorial
Syntorial is an interactive, video game-like course that teaches you how to program synth patches by ear. It combines video demonstrations with interactive challenges in which you program a built-in soft synth. And they’ve got a free demo that includes the first 22 lessons for free.
I purchased Syntorial in May 2016. I bought it because I was struggling to create the sounds I was hearing in my favourite tracks. Fast forward to the present day and I am now designing patches for sample packs and sound banks that have been in the Splice Top 100 charts multiple times.
You can download it for free from the Syntorial website.
Best All Round Book For Learning EDM Production: Dance Music Manual by Rick Snoman
This was the first book I bought when I first started producing. I used to read it on my daily commute to work. I love it because it covers every aspect of creating a killer song, from music theory to mixing and mastering, song structure, energy and even some material on marketing yourself and building a brand.
I am by no means an avid book reader, but this book was really easy to finish and, due to his informal tone and style of writing, Rick managed to easily me attentive and focused throughout the book.
Best Budget Studio Monitors: M-Audio BX5 D3
I bought these monitors back in 2015 and they still sound as good as the day I got them.
If you are on a tight budget then I truly believe these monitors are unmatched in terms of spec and sound quality.
Spec:
- Active/Passive: Active
- Type: 2-way 5 inch Studio Monitors
- Frequency Response: 52Hz – 35KHz
- LF / HF amplifier power: 60W/40W Per Speaker
- Inputs: 1 XLR, 1 1/4” TRS
Best Budget Studio Headphones: Audio-Technica M50X
I’ve been using these headphones for over 4 years now almost daily. Just look at the poor things. I’ve had to replace the cushions as the previous ones were so worn out.
One of the most important factors when it comes to headphones is that they are comfortable enough to be worn for hours.
Many of the other headphones I tried started hurting my ears or applying too much pressure to points on my head which started getting painful.
I can wear these for hours at a time without even noticing them.
Not to mention they have a great detailed sound. In my opinion they are unmatched in this price bracket.
Recommended 61 Key MIDI Keyboard: Alesis VI61
I started out with a 24 key MIDI keyboard, then moved to the Alesis V49, and eventually settled on this Alesis VI61.
What I love about this is the keys are semi-weighted which gives a more natural playing feel as opposed to the V49 synth weighted keys.
I think it looks great with its RGB lighting and sleek design. It has 16 drum pads and a bunch of assignable knobs and buttons.
Some Specs:
- Semi-weighted keys with aftertouch
- 61 Keys
- 16 velocity sensitive RGB drum pads
- 48 assignable buttons and 16 assignable knobs
- USB MIDI and 5-pin MIDI Out
- Comes with Ableton Live Lite and Xpand!2 software
Recommended Budget Studio Mic: Audio Technica AT2020
I’ve been using this mic for over 3 years and love it. Typical daily usage includes, recording vocal shouts, foley (claps, snaps, random objects), recording tutorials, VOIP calls, all work perfectly.
Some Specs:
- Polar pattern: Cardioid
- Mic Type: Large Diaphragm Condenser
- Frequency Response: 20-20,000Hz
- Impedance: 100 ohms
- Max Input Sound Level: 144dB SPL, 1kHz at 1% T.H.D
- Dynamic Range: 124 dB, 1kHz at Max SPL
- Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 74 dB, 1kHz at 1 Pa
- Phantom Power Requirements: 48V DC, 2 mA
- Connector: XLR
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