What equipment is necessary for producing Vocaloid songs?

What equipment is necessary for producing Vocaloid songs? A thorough explanation of selecting DAWs and equipment!

Many people who aspire to become a “Vocaloid producer” may be unsure where to start when it comes to creating music.

In this article, current Japanese composers will explain the necessary equipment for producing Vocaloid songs!

Equipment

Let’s take a look at the equipment necessary to start creating Vocaloid music.

• Computer (Windows or Mac)
• DAW
• Vocaloid software (editor and library)
• Audio interface
• MIDI keyboard
• Monitor headphones
• Monitor speakers

① Computer (Windows or Mac)

We often hear the question, “Can’t I use an iPad?” But for DTM, it is generally believed that a Windows or Mac computer is necessary.

To create stress-free music, it is important to have a high-performing CPU (brain) and memory (muscles) with good balance. If you want to start DTM seriously, it is recommended to purchase a machine with high specs from the beginning.

Windows

The advantage of Windows is that it is possible to build a machine on your own. It is possible to introduce a high-performance machine at a low cost.

Mac

Many people who work in creative fields in Japan have used Mac, but recently, the share among students has also increased.

Although it is higher than the same specs of Windows, it has gained enormous popularity due to its stylish design.

However, because it has become more stylish, it is important to note that the storage capacity of the Mac itself has decreased.

② DAW software

DAW stands for Digital Audio Workstation, which is software used to create music on a computer. We often receive inquiries about which DAW software to purchase. However, it’s often difficult to convince someone of our recommendations without explaining the reasons behind them.

If you’re serious about music production, buying the highest-end version of any DAW will ultimately yield similar results. As a rule of thumb, it’s best to choose a DAW that you feel comfortable using and that you think will help you be more creative.

Many users tend to purchase “software instruments” such as realistic drum or piano sounds to complement their DAW, so keep that in mind when choosing a DAW that suits you.

Which DAW is recommended?

While it’s difficult to categorize, we’ve divided our recommendations by purpose!

	I would like to casually try out a DAW!	I would like to try out popular Japanese activities such as “singing covers” or “mixing”!	I would like to seriously create music!
LogicPro	○	○	○
CUBASE LE/AI/Elements	○	–	–
CUBASE ARTIST	○	○	△
CUBASE PRO	–	○	○
StudioOne Prime	○	–	–
StudioOne Artist	○	△	△
StudioOne Professional	–	○	○

【○】Recommended, 【△】Dependent on environment/needs further consideration, 【-】Not recommended.

Steinberg CUBASE

The instructors at the online sister school for Japanese users, “Next Lead Music School,” are currently featuring in Steinberg’s “ENJOY CUBASE.”

CUBASE is a DAW software developed by YAMAHA, and as long as YAMAHA remains in business, software development will continue.

The risk of not being able to update the software in the middle of development is relatively low. CUBASE is a DAW software with a high share rate in Japan, and it has many users.

In my opinion, of all the DAWs I will introduce here, it has the best sound quality. However, the top-of-the-line “CUBASE PRO” is slightly more expensive compared to other DAWs from other companies.

CUBASE ELEMENTS

This DAW is positioned as an entry-level software for CUBASE. Although it has some feature limitations, it is relatively easy to use even for beginners.

Buy CUBASE ELEMENTS here!

CUBASE ARTIST

The “Vari Audio” feature, which allows you to adjust the pitch of vocals, is available in the Artist version. Although the effects are fewer than in the top-level PRO version, it is still recommended for beginners. Since the cost of equipment can be a burden when getting started with DTM, it is not necessary to spend a lot of money only on software. For those who say, “I can’t afford the top-level version,” the ARTIST version is also a good choice.

Buy CUBASE ARTIST here!

CUBASE PRO

“CUBASE PRO” has a high share rate in Japan. It is a DAW software with a history among Windows users and has been active as a foundation for many DTM users. Although the top-level “PRO” is more expensive than other DAWs, it is one of the DAWs that can be used with confidence in the long term.

Buy CUBASE PRO here!

PreSonus StudioOne

It is a DAW with a short history, but it has made a splash when it was acquired by the popular guitar maker Fender.

The operation is similar to CUBASE, and it is a very lightweight DAW. I also used it for music production myself, but lately I have only been using it for mastering. StudioOne offers three lineups, so let’s check them out one by one!

StudioOne Prime

It is the free version of StudioOne. Let’s check the feel of the operation and upgrade if you enjoy it!

Although there are not many things you can do, I feel that you can still enjoy it with the free version.

Download the free version here!

StudioOne Artist

If you want to try mixing of the songs, the Artist version is also suitable. Since the Professional version may feel a little high for some, the Artist version is recommended. Although there are some functional limitations, it is a good sign that you feel unsatisfied because it means that your skills are improving. In that case, let’s consider upgrading!

Buy StudioOne6 Artist here!

StudioOne Professional

This is the top-level version of StudioOne. All functions can be used. It can be said that it is one of the modern DAWs used by professional composers and mastering engineers. It is also a characteristic that it often becomes cheaper on Black Friday.

Buy StudioOne6 Professional here!

Logic Pro / Garageband

“Logic Pro” and “Garageband” released by Apple are recommended DAWs for Mac users, and can be downloaded from the App Store.

Since various instrument libraries and effects are provided, and the operation is relatively light, if you install Logic Pro on your Mac, you can complete everything from music production to mixing.

It can be relatively inexpensive, with a price of around 20,000 yen, divided into a free version of GarageBand and a paid version of Logic Pro.

I predict that in the future, it is highly likely that AI like Chat GPT will be incorporated into these DAWs.

③ Vocaloid Software (Editor and Library)

Vocaloid is a music software that can be used by importing a “library” (sound source) such as Hatsune Miku, which has been purchased as material, into an editing software called an “editor”. First, let’s check each one!

CRYPTON/ Hatsune Miku V4X

Hatsune Miku is a well-known Vocaloid singer and popular among Japanese music fans overseas.

Buy the Hatsune Miku here!

CRYPTON/ Kagamine Rin & Len V4X

Kagamine Rin & Len is also a popular virtual singer who combines power, charm, good pronunciation, strength, and cuteness. There was a time when many people wanted to use the Kagamine Rin & Len instead of Hatsune Miku.

Buy the Kagamine Rin & Len here!

CRYPTON/ Megurine Luka V4X

Megurine Luka has a high usage rate among the school’s students. Like Rin and Len, she is a popular virtual singer with many users.

Buy the Megurine Luka here!

④ Audio Interface

The audio interface is often categorized as an essential piece of equipment for DTM. It acts as a relay between the computer and the real world of sound.

It relates to the “sound indicator” because the sound quality when recording vocals or guitars and the sound heard changes.

You can create a better production environment for music production and start creating your work. If you proceed with work with difficult-to-judge sound, it may have a negative effect on your work.

This time, we recommend MOTU’s M2 for counseling and trial lessons!

Buy the MOTU M2 here!

⑤ MIDI Keyboard

A “MIDI keyboard” is necessary to advance DTM work. Of course, there are many situations where you can work with just a mouse. A MIDI keyboard alone does not fulfill its function. Recently, electronic pianos have also taken on the role of MIDI keyboards.

Basically, you play the virtual synthesizer started on the DAW with the MIDI keyboard. The price and size vary, but for those who actually play the piano, motivation is related not only to the performance but also to the contents of the performance.

Buy the M-AUDIO KEYSTATION49 here!

⑥ Monitor Headphones

Some people may not be able to output sound from their speakers, so headphones may be one of the important items. If you already have something, there is no problem, but if you are going to purchase one, let’s introduce the following two as a criterion!

Types of Headphones: Closed type

Closed-type headphones are used by many Vocaloid producers because they do not let sound leak from the headphones, allowing for more accurate sound output.

Buy the closed-type headphone SONY MDR-900ST here!

Types of Headphones: Open/Semi-open type

Open type headphones are characterized by sound leaking out of the holes or gaps on the sides of the headphones. They are less likely to make your ears sweat in the summer compared to closed-back headphones. Many of these headphones offer a spacious sound rather than a tightly packed sound. This type of headphone makes it easier to notice reverb and echo sounds.

Buy the semi open-type headphone ROLAND RH-A30 here!

⑦ Monitor Speakers

I feel that considering what kind of sound you will be working with is a very important point from a creative perspective.

Headphones can also work fine, but if you have the extra budget, it’s worth considering purchasing monitor speakers.

Whether the sound you’re creating is getting you pumped up or if it’s a sound that can be objectively evaluated, there are various factors to consider before making a purchase. It may also be tough to wear headphones all day long in the summer.

Buy the YAMAHA HS5 (pair) here!

Summary

How was it? By purchasing the equipment introduced here, you can take your first step into the world of “Vocaloid producer”. One common problem is that there are cases where the software or equipment is not compatible with the OS. When purchasing, be sure to check if it is compatible with your computer or the one you will be purchasing.

At Honey Music School, you can learn music theory and arranging online. All the instructors are Japanese, so you can also learn Japanese while studying Japanese content.

If you’re interested, please take of the free trial lesson.

Have a great DTM life!!