Hello! This is Moriya from Honey Music School, where we offer online lessons in Japanese songwriting, composition, vocal training, and more.
Today, I’d like to introduce some recommended equipment for music production. If you already have a PC or Mac and are considering purchasing DTM (desktop music) equipment, I hope this guide helps you!
Essential Equipment
To start, here is a list of essential items for music production:
- DAW Software
- Audio Interface
- MIDI Keyboard
- Headphones
- Monitor Speakers
- Microphone
- Accessories and Cables
DAW Software
DAW stands for “Digital Audio Workstation,” the software used for composing music. Here are the DAWs we cover in Honey Music School lessons:
Logic Pro
Available exclusively on Mac, Logic Pro is my go-to DAW for composing and arranging. As an Apple product, it’s stable with minimal bugs, and offers a wide variety of instrument and synthesizer sounds.
Ableton Live
If you’re interested in sampling and track-making, I recommend Ableton Live. Its raw and gritty sound character is very appealing — it’s truly one-of-a-kind!
FL Studio
Recommended by our instructor KZ Chrome, FL Studio is great for creating cool tracks effortlessly! It’s constantly evolving and is especially popular among dance music producers.
Audio Interfaces
As more people are getting into music production and sharing their music online, an audio interface is essential even though it might not feel like an exciting purchase.
It plays a crucial role in vocal recordings and setting audio standards for editing.
Solid State Logic / SSL2 MK2
A compact yet reliable interface inspired by SSL’s legendary consoles. The large volume knob allows for intuitive control, which can improve your workflow.
It offers excellent sound quality suitable even for beginners, and it’s the one I often use for collaborations.
Don’t forget to install the driver after purchase!
MOTU / M2
MOTU’s M2 is highly recommended — it’s amazing to get this level of quality at such an affordable price. I personally use it often and it’s my top pick!
Be sure to install the necessary drivers after purchase.
Arturia / MiniFuse1
If you’re not too concerned about sound quality and just want a simple, affordable audio interface, the MiniFuse1 is a great choice!
However, when using it for online lessons, the setup can be a bit more complicated compared to other interfaces. You can find a detailed setup guide at the bottom of this article—be sure to check it out!
MIDI Keyboards
A MIDI keyboard is essential for efficient DTM work. While you can compose using just a mouse, having a MIDI keyboard connected via USB makes playing virtual instruments within your DAW much smoother.
I recommend a 49-key keyboard as it offers a good balance between functionality and space-saving.
Headphones
If you can’t use speakers at home, headphones become crucial. If you’re buying new ones, here are two types to consider:
Closed-back Headphones
Closed-back models prevent sound leakage and are widely used for vocal recording. The SONY MDR-900ST, a studio staple in Japan, is great for detecting noise issues during takes.
Open-back / Semi-open Headphones
These have vented sides that allow sound to escape, preventing ear fatigue during long sessions. They usually provide a more spacious sound compared to closed-back models.
Monitor Speakers
Choosing the right speakers is vital for creators. Whether they help you get excited while composing or enable you to evaluate your tracks objectively, having good monitor speakers is highly beneficial — especially in hot seasons when wearing headphones gets uncomfortable.
YAMAHA HS5
Balanced across all frequencies, the HS5 is a reliable and cost-effective choice.
Available in black or white to match your room decor.
JBL 305P MKⅡ
Originally known for live sound, JBL impressed me with this model during a recording session. It’s a strong competitor to the HS5, though reverb tails are slightly harder to discern.
Microphones
There are different types of microphones for different purposes, but here are two condenser microphones ideal for vocal recordings:
audio-technica / AT4050
The AT4050 is praised for its similarity to the NEUMANN U87i, a studio classic. It’s versatile and practical for vocals. If U87i is out of budget, this is a great alternative.
LEWITT / LCT240Pro
With its sleek, modern design, the LCT240Pro delivers sound that blends well with backing tracks.
Accessories
You’ll need cables to connect your microphone to the audio interface, and the interface to your speakers.
XLR Cables
Available in various lengths. An XLR cable is essential when using a condenser mic.
XLR (Male) to TRS Cable
If your monitor speakers support XLR but your audio interface doesn’t, use this type of cable with different connectors on each end.
Microphone Stand
Essential for vocal recording, especially with condenser mics, as handling the mic by hand can introduce unwanted noise.
Desktop Stand
Ideal for those who prefer sitting while singing or have limited space.
USB Hub
If your computer doesn’t have enough USB ports, you’ll need a USB hub.
At minimum, you’ll need two USB ports—one for your audio interface and another for your MIDI keyboard.
Pop Filter
A pop filter is necessary to reduce vocal plosives and maintain proper distance from the mic. Some condenser mics come with one included.
Additional Resources
That’s it! If any students have questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out to us!
Honey Music School / Representative
Made Composer Debut at the age of 23 composing music for Japanese Anime. Subsequently worked at a Recording Studio producing numerous music.
Not limited to Music Production, has Sound Engineered for numerous Live performances of singers and artists. Currently working on Web Marketing and activities to revitalize Local Regions while continuing Music Production.
“I sincerely wish from the bottom of my heart that Japan and Music will be loved by many people”.
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