How to Start Music Production (Without Breaking the Bank)
You don’t have to spend thousands to start producing music. I have a super simple setup, and I’ve racked up six-figure streams using just the essentials.
Of course, over time, I’ve upgraded my setup, which is why I can charge premium prices for my production services. But if you’re just starting out, you don’t need all the fancy gear—you just need the right essentials.
Here’s what I personally use and what I recommend for getting started.
My Setup – What Works for Me
I’ve built my studio over years of trial and error, and here’s what I’m working with now:
M3 MacBook Pro
Studio Rokit 4 Monitors
Audio-Technica ATH-M50X (White) – Because they look clean
Shure SM7B Microphone + Cloudlifter – Don’t forget the Cloudlifter if you want proper gain
Scarlett Solo Audio Interface (Used to use a Tascam device back in the day)
DAWs: Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, Pro Tools
More plugins than I’d like to admit
But truthfully, you don’t need all of this to start.
What Do You Actually Need to Start Producing Music?
If you’re just starting out, keep it simple.
✅ A DAW – Pick FL Studio or Ableton Live and get comfortable.
✅ A Decent Pair of Headphones – You don’t need studio monitors yet.
✅ A Computer That Can Handle It – This is the biggest investment you’ll make.
✅ If you’re working with studio monitors: a Sound-treated room
And that’s it.
I’ve even produced songs on my AirPods Pro before. It’s about knowing how to work with what you have.
Computers – Your Biggest Investment
Your computer is the heart of your setup. If it can’t handle multiple tracks, plugins, and real-time processing, you’re going to struggle.
📌 Mac or PC? It doesn’t matter—just get something with:
A strong processor (Intel i7/i9 or Apple M1/M2/M3)
At least 16GB RAM (32GB+ if you edit video too)
An SSD (HDDs are too slow for production)
If you’re serious about producing, this is where to invest the most money.
Do You Need an Audio Interface?
If you plan to record vocals, instruments, or any live sound, you’ll need an audio interface.
Best Budget Options:
🎚 Focusrite Scarlett Solo – Solid and affordable.
🎚 Universal Audio Volt 2 – Great sound quality and vintage preamp.
I used to cheap out on my interface, and it showed in my recordings. But as you grow as a producer, you’ll learn how to manipulate raw audio—even iPhone mic recordings can sound great if you know what you’re doing.
Final Thoughts – Just Start Producing
The best studio setup is the one that lets you create. Don’t get caught up thinking you need all the gear before you start. All you need is a DAW, decent headphones, and a computer that can handle it.
Everything else? You’ll figure it out along the way.
🚀 Want help setting up your first studio or refining your sound? Let’s talk. Book a free call here.
