Top Electronic Music Production Software for Beginners in EDM

January 14, 2025 by Muse Waves Uncategorized

Finding the right electronic music production software can be hard for beginners. One fact is that Ableton Live 10 is great to start with in EDM. Our article lists the top software and how they help you make music easily.

Keep reading to find your best match.

Understanding Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs)

Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) are the central tool in music production; they are software programs used to record, edit, and produce audio tracks. DAWs offer a range of features such as virtual instruments, MIDI sequencing, and audio editing tools that allow producers to create professional-quality music.

What is a DAW?

A DAW, or Digital Audio Workstation, is essential software for music production on a computer. It mixes different sounds and edits music. You can record audio, play virtual instruments, add effects, and mix songs.

Think of it as your studio but in your computer.

DAWs also have MIDI editing to control keyboards and drum pads. They are handy for people making electronic music from home or studios. With this tool, you can turn your musical ideas into reality without needing lots of expensive equipment.

Key functions of a DAW in music production

DAWs let you record and edit sounds. You can import bits of music you didn’t record in the studio. They play virtual keyboards and drums too. You add music effects with them. Mixing makes all parts sound good together.

Mastering makes the final piece sound perfect on any device.

You start by putting down your musical ideas, playing around with different sounds from software instruments like synth or piano within your DAW such as FL Studio or Ableton Live. Then, layer in audio effects to make each part stand out.

After that, adjust levels and balance through mixing, aiming for clarity and depth across all tracks. The last step involves mastering—fine-tuning the overall sound to shine on speakers everywhere.

Best DAWs for Beginners in EDM

When delving into electronic music production, newcomers in EDM can benefit from grasping the use of Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs). Primary DAWs for beginners encompass Ableton Live, FL Studio, Apple Logic Pro, Presonus Studio One, and Steinberg Cubase. These tools provide user-friendly interfaces and powerful features designed for those entering the world of music production.

Ableton Live

Ableton Live is well-noted among creators of electronic dance music, with notable figures like Skrillex and Deadmau5 using it to mould their music. Boasting a library of over 5000 sounds and exceeding 70GB of content, the software is rich with audio resources.

It provides 18 instruments and 46 sound effects to help with the creation of unique tracks. With a price tag of £319 for the standard version and £539 for the Suite version, it’s not a minor investment.

Ableton Live offers a swift workflow along with limitless audio and MIDI tracks for your studio.

While some critics suggest its piano roll is somewhat difficult compared to the layout of FL Studio, Ableton Live’s user-friendly design expedites the production process, enabling rapid music creation.

High cost considered, Ableton Live equips you with everything you need to promptly get started with music creation.

FL Studio

FL Studio distinguishes itself prominently within the domain of music creation software, particularly for budding EDM producers. Recognised as the preferred choice of renowned artists such as Avicii and Martin Garrix, it presents an exclusive mix of attributes.

With prices ranging from £89 for the Fruity Edition to £807.50 for the All Plugins Bundle, it caters to all budgetary considerations. The most applauded feature of this software is the highly-praised piano roll that simplifies the creation of intricate melodies.

Moreover, it offers lifetime free upgrades—once purchased, there is no need to incur additional costs for new versions.

While this software does present some initial obstacles. Its layout may seem complex initially, and the setting up of routing for your audio/MIDI clips manually to mixer channels could require a learning period.

Regardless of these obstacles, FL Studio maintains its top spot due to its potent plugins such as Sytrus and Harmor. For those inclined to explore electronic music production without a significant financial investment or quality compromise, this platform offers an excellent first step.

Apple Logic Pro

Apple Logic Pro is a top pick for Mac users in the music-making world. This software costs £199 and you can buy it from the App Store. Famous names like Calvin Harris and Hardwell use it to create their hits.

Logic Pro comes with loads of tools – 69 effects, 23 instruments, and more than 7000 sounds are at your fingertips. It looks good too, with a user-friendly interface that makes music production smooth.

But there’s a catch if you’re not on Mac or used to FL Studio or Ableton Live. Logic Pro doesn’t work with Windows and lacks support for VST plugins, which might slow down some users at first.

Still, with no extra costs for upgrades and its rich library of sounds, it’s worth getting into if you want an all-in-one package to make great tunes on a Mac computer.

Presonus Studio One

Presonus Studio One is appreciated for its straightforward single-window interface, simplifying music creation, particularly for novices. It comes equipped with 37 audio processors, 5 virtual instruments, and 4 Note FX for perfecting your sound.

With these considerations, one can combine and refine tunes expertly. The software comes in three forms: Prime at no cost, Artist at £85.20, and Professional at £344.40.

The software enjoys popularity amidst electronic music creators like Headhunterz and KATFYR, credited to its user-friendly layout. Nonetheless, it doesn’t quite match up to Ableton and Logic Pro X concerning built-in libraries/effects.

Plus, it lacks support for older 32-bit systems which could restrict some users. Despite these minor shortcomings, this digital audio workstation (DAW) assists you in identifying chords with Harmonic Editing – making it ideal for beginners enthusiastic to start music production without being intimidated by intricate tools or ideas.

Steinberg Cubase

Steinberg Cubase is a music-making tool that stands out. It has three versions: Pro 10 for £480, Artist 10 for £265, and Elements 10 for £85. This software gives you more than 3000 sounds, 75 audio effects, and 18 MIDI effects to play with.

Famous users like Zedd, Noisia, and Junkie XL use it to create music.

It comes packed with eight VST instruments but could have more for its price. Another point is it does not support AU plugins. Despite this, its redesigned interface makes producing tracks easier.

The comprehensive mixing tools help you fine-tune your music just right. Steinberg Cubase offers great options, whether you are just starting or have been in the game for a while.

Key Features to Look for in Music Production Software

When choosing music production software, it’s crucial to consider a user-friendly interface that simplifies the creative process. Built-in instruments and effects, as well as support for third-party plugins, can greatly expand your sonic palette.

Comprehensive mixing and mastering tools are essential for achieving professional sound quality in your productions.

User-friendly interface

Electronic music production software can seem complex, but a user-friendly interface makes the process smoother. Ableton Live is celebrated for its intuitive design, while FL Studio offers an easy-to-navigate layout and pattern-based workflow that beginners appreciate.

GarageBand and Tracktion T7 also provide essential features with straightforward usability for those new to music production. These platforms help you focus on creating your music rather than getting lost in complicated tools – making it easier to bring your musical ideas to life.

Built-in instruments and effects

Ableton Live boasts 18 instruments alongside 46 audio effects. FL Studio offers robust plugins such as Sytrus and Harmor, while Logic Pro X comes with a whopping 69 effect plugins and 23 instruments.

These extensive features provide an impressive array of options for producers to experiment with and create unique sounds without the need for additional third-party software or equipment.

Support for third-party plugins

When selecting music production software, it’s crucial to consider support for third-party plugins. Quality plugins can significantly improve your mixes by adding clarity, depth, and warmth.

Search for software that integrates well with recommended plugins such as EQ, compression, reverb, and distortion. Furthermore, keep an eye out for synth plugins like Serum and Massive X known for their capabilities.

Sampler instruments like Native Instruments Kontakt 6 and Spectrasonics Omnisphere 2 are also essential in the realm of EDM music production.

These third-party plugins bring a new level of creativity to your music-making process. They open up endless possibilities for sound design and musical expression while aiding in achieving professional-grade results right from the start.

Comprehensive mixing and mastering tools

Comprehensive mixing and mastering tools are essential for polishing your tracks. FL Studio, for instance, provides a full suite of features for recording, composing, arranging, mixing, and mastering music.

On the other hand, tools like Steinberg Cubase offer a wide array of mixing options such as EQ (Equalisation), Limiter to restrict audio levels within a certain range and Compression to even out audio dynamics.

These functionalities ensure that you have everything you need at your fingertips to create professional-sounding tracks.

Comprehensive Guides on Using DAWs

Mastering your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) is essential for unleashing your potential as an EDM producer—explore setting up your DAW, mastering basic and advanced production techniques, and uncovering tips for enhancing your workflow. Delve into crafting your inaugural track, using virtual instruments, honing fundamental mixing skills, and more. To gain a deeper insight into music production using DAWs, explore our detailed guides now!

Setting up your DAW

To set up your DAW, follow these steps:

Install the software on your computer. Check the system requirements first and ensure your computer meets them.
Configure your audio interface and MIDI controller with the DAW software. Connect them to your computer using the appropriate cables.
Set up your preferences in the DAW, such as sample rate and buffer size, to optimise performance according to your needs.
Familiarise yourself with the user interface and navigation tools within the DAW to streamline your workflow.
Import or record audio files into the DAW, ensuring they are compatible with the software’s supported formats.
Organise your workspace by creating custom templates for different types of projects you’ll be working on in the future.
Explore and understand key features such as track creation, editing tools, and mixer settings to enhance your understanding of how to use the software effectively.
Take advantage of tutorials and online resources provided by the software’s developers or community to learn more about setting up and optimising your DAW for music production.

Basic music production techniques

Music production techniques are the foundation of creating electronic dance music. Here are some essential techniques for beginners:

Understanding Rhythm: Learn to create and manipulate drum patterns using MIDI programming or sampling.
Melody Formation: Compose catchy melodies using synthesizers, piano rolls, or MIDI keyboards to create musical phrases.
Sampling and Audio Editing: Master the art of sampling and editing audio clips to incorporate unique sounds into your tracks.
Sound Design: Experiment with synthesizers and sound manipulation tools to craft your own signature sounds.
Arrangement Structure: Arrange your composition with an intro, verse, chorus, breakdown, and outro to create a cohesive musical journey.
Mixing Basics: Understand the fundamentals of balancing levels, panning, and applying basic effects like EQ and compression to achieve a polished mix.
Mastering Essentials: Learn about finalising your tracks through mastering processes such as dynamic range control and overall tonal shaping.

These foundational techniques will kickstart your journey into producing electrifying EDM tracks.

Advanced production techniques

Mastering advanced production techniques may demand an extra 12 to 20 hours of focused learning. Specialising in particular production methods may necessitate around 20 hours of dedicated learning time. Cultivating a distinctive style can enrich the quality of your productions. Enhanced skills and individual style can distinguish you in the constantly evolving realm of music production.

Tips for efficient workflow

To improve your music production workflow, consider the following tips:

Create default templates for quick access to settings, ensuring a smooth start for each project.
Use quick reference files to resolve production issues promptly and maintain the creative flow.
Set clear goals to enhance focus during production, aiding in organised and efficient work.
Regularly review and adjust workflow for improvement, ensuring adaptability and growth within your process.

Tutorials for Beginners

When beginning your journey in electronic music production, tutorials can be incredibly helpful. These step-by-step guides cover everything from creating your first track to mastering the basics of mixing and sound design, giving you a solid foundation to kick-start your music-making journey.

With these resources at hand, you’ll soon find yourself confidently moving through digital audio workstations and honing your skills as an EDM producer.

Creating your first track

To create your first track, start by familiarising yourself with the basic features of your chosen DAW. Then, consider the following steps as you embark on this exciting journey:

Explore the interface and get to know its layout, including how to create new projects and move between tracks and channels.
Experiment with virtual instruments to understand how to use them to create melodies, harmonies, and basslines for your track.
Learn how to sequence drum patterns using pre-recorded drum sounds or electronic drum machines available within the software.
Grasp the basics of audio recording in your DAW, allowing you to record vocals or other live instruments if desired.
Delve into mixing techniques by adjusting volume levels, panning sounds in the stereo field, and applying basic EQ and compression effects.
Begin understanding the concept of automation within your DAW, enabling you to dynamically control parameters over time, such as volume and effects settings.
Get to know the exporting or bouncing options within your DAW so that you can share your creation with others or use it in a performance setting.
Set small goals for each session to keep track of your progress while maintaining focus on specific aspects of production at a time.
Find inspiration from existing tracks within similar genres but keep in mind that originality is key to standing out as an artist.
Embrace creativity and don’t hesitate to experiment with different sounds, effects, and arrangements while working on your first track!

Using virtual instruments

Virtual instruments play a crucial role in music production, offering a wide range of sounds and effects. Here’s the deal:

They provide access to diverse instrumental sounds such as pianos, synthesizers, drums, and more.
Virtual instruments facilitate experimentation with different melodies and rhythms during the music composition process.
These tools are essential for adding depth and texture to your tracks through unique and customisable soundscapes.
In addition, virtual instruments enable you to create professional-quality music without the need for physical hardware or traditional studio setups.

Mixing basics

Balancing sound elements is crucial for a clear mix.
Adjusting volumes is essential to bring out the best in every track.
Applying EQ helps achieve clarity and distinction in the overall mix.
Proper use of compression can enhance dynamics and impact in your music.
Understanding panning techniques to create spacious and immersive mixes is important.
Utilising reverb and delay to add depth and dimension to your tracks can elevate the quality of your production.

Mastering basics

Mastering basics involves understanding different digital audio workstations (DAWs) suitable for EDM production. It’s crucial to choose the right DAW, like Ableton Live 10, FL Studio 20, Logic Pro X, Steinberg Cubase, or Presonus Studio One. Familiarising oneself with high-quality built-in plugins and sound libraries aids in effective music production. Learning to utilise synth plugins like Xfer Records Serum and Native Instruments Massive X can enhance production quality. Accessing resources like free sample packs and EDM starter kits for beginners is essential. Understanding the workflow and features of each DAW helps streamline the production process. It’s crucial to practise mixing and mastering techniques to improve the overall sound quality of tracks.

Additional Resources for Learning

Explore a wealth of learning sources to enhance your music production skills:

– Explore comprehensive online courses and tutorials crafted for EDM producers.

– Immerse yourself in recommended books and guides that offer in-depth knowledge on electronic music production techniques and software usage.

Online courses and tutorials

Online courses and tutorials are a valuable resource for music producers to enhance their skills and knowledge. Here are some key resources that provide in-depth guidance and education:

1-on-1 Coaching, All-Access Bundle, and Pro Producer Bundle options are available for comprehensive learning experiences.
EDM Foundations course presents four full song projects to assist in mastering basic skills.
Mixing For Producers offers fundamental mixing teachings from industry professionals, ensuring a thorough understanding of the subject.

Recommended books and guides

When starting out with electronic music production, it’s crucial to have the right resources at hand. Here are some recommended books and guides to help you on your journey:

“The Producer’s Guide to Workflow & Creativity“: This book serves as an excellent resource for understanding the workflow and creative processes involved in music production.
“The War of Art” by Steven Pressfield: This book provides valuable insights into overcoming creative blocks and staying motivated throughout your music production journey.
Emphasis on structured learning: It’s important to focus on quality in music production courses, as they can provide structured learning that is essential for building a strong foundation in this field.

By having these resources at your disposal, you can enhance your skills and knowledge in electronic music production, setting yourself up for success in this dynamic industry.

Communities and forums for EDM producers

Websites and forums dedicated to EDM production offer valuable resources and collaborative opportunities for music producers. These platforms cover various topics such as music theory, recording techniques, mixing, and mastering. They also provide exclusive resources such as free software, samples, and plugins to aid your music production journey.

Electronic Music Production Forums: Platforms like EDM.com’s community forum and the Electronic Music Production subreddit are excellent places to engage with fellow producers, seek advice, and share your experiences.
Educational Websites: Websites like Produce Like a Pro and Sound on Sound offer in-depth articles, tutorials, and tips on electronic music production techniques, gear reviews, and industry news.
Sample Sharing Communities: Online communities like Splice provide access to a vast library of royalty-free samples for EDM production. This can be invaluable for enhancing your tracks with high-quality sounds.
Software-Specific User Forums: DAW-specific forums, such as Ableton Live’s community forum or FL Studio’s user groups, offer a wealth of information on using these tools effectively for EDM production.

By participating in these communities and forums, you can expand your knowledge base, receive constructive feedback on your work, and discover new tools to elevate your electronic music productions.

The Role of AI in Music Production

AI in music production is transforming the way sounds are created and manipulated, offering benefits such as enhanced creativity and efficiency. Leveraging AI can streamline tasks like mixing, mastering, and even generating musical elements, revolutionising the music production process for beginners in EDM.

Overview of AI music generators

AI music generators have transformed the music production landscape by utilising artificial intelligence to compose intricate and emotive soundtracks. For example, AIVA simplifies the process of creating moving melodies and offers streamlined music licensing solutions.

This pioneering technology has not just transformed how music is created but also provides a glimpse into the future of innovative composition tools. Furthermore, ORB PRODUCER SUITE utilises AI capabilities to generate diverse musical patterns and loops, further expanding creative possibilities for producers in the electronic dance music (EDM) genre.

These advanced AI-powered platforms demonstrate the cutting-edge advancements carving a new path in music creation, enabling producers to explore fresh avenues for their artistry. By harnessing the potentials of AI in music generation, producers can unlock fresh compositions and push boundaries in their craft while seamlessly integrating these tools into their workflows.

Benefits of using AI in music production

Utilising AI in music production offers numerous advantages. It boosts creativity and efficiency by assisting in composition, mixing, and mastering. This allows for the rapid creation of bespoke tracks using AI-generated music.

These advantages provide a competitive edge for producers seeking streamlined workflows, improved output quality, and an expanded creative scope. By integrating AI tools into their production process, electronic music producers access efficient track creation methods while enhancing overall productivity.

AI’s role in music production is not only about automating tasks; it is tailored to enrich the producer’s set of tools with personalised assistance for creating high-quality content efficiently and effectively.

The constantly changing world of music making considers AI as a pioneering force that supports its intricacies with strong solutions for both beginners and seasoned professionals alike.

FAQs

What’s the time commitment to learn a DAW? Is paid music production software worth it? Can you make professional beats with beginner-friendly software?

Want more answers on EDM music production FAQs?

How long does it take to learn a DAW?

Learning a DAW for basic production skills takes about 8 hours. It’s also recommended to spend another 8 hours on music theory. However, mastering a DAW may take years of practice.

Effective learning usually takes approximately 100 hours.

Learning to use a DAW effectively involves investing time and effort. Dedicate yourself to consistent practice and exploration of the software’s functions, as there is no shortcut to becoming proficient in this area.

Should you pay for music production software?

In terms of music production software, the price can vary from £60 to £750. Many choices include free trials or restricted versions for testing, allowing you to try before making a commitment.

It’s advisable to consider at least the second tier of pricing as this often offers essential features required for professional music production. Before selecting your software, take into account your budget and compare it with the features provided by various options to arrive at a well-informed decision.

Can you produce professional beats with beginner software?

Yes, you can create top-quality beats with beginner software. Tools like EQ and compressors help achieve clean mixes, while essential plugins enhance production quality. It’s a misconception that only advanced software can produce professional results.

With the right skills and creativity, beginner software can be just as effective in creating high-quality music.

By opting for the best music production software for beginners, such as Ableton Live or FL Studio, you can access user-friendly interfaces and built-in instruments to kickstart your journey into electronic music production.

These tools are designed to make music creation accessible to newcomers while offering enough depth for experienced producers to master their craft.

It’s not just about the complexity of the tool but how it is used that forms great sound production—unlocking its secrets through tailored knowledge and towards specific goals. Whether you’re making hip-hop or EDM, these digital audio workstations (DAWs) offer all-encompassing features such as comprehensive mixing and mastering tools that allow newbies to delve in at a beginner level yet seek capabilities beyond entry-level from their chosen DAWs.

Conclusion

In the world of electronic music production, selecting the appropriate software is crucial for unleashing your creative potential. With user-friendly DAWs like Ableton Live, FL Studio, Logic Pro X, and others, beginners can easily immerse themselves in music-making.

These tools are equipped with essential features and comprehensive guides, aimed at enriching your music production journey in EDM.

Whether you’re a novice or an experienced producer looking for more than fundamental functionalities, there’s a fitting option crafted for your requirements. From composing your initial track to mastering advanced production techniques, these tools are here to reveal the intricacies of music creation to you.

Exploring Electronic Music Production DAWs for Beginners

Let’s delve into digital audio workstations (DAWs) for beginners in electronic music production. DAWs are essential tools that aid in creating and producing music on your computer.

Prominent choices such as Ableton Live, FL Studio, Apple Logic Pro, Presonus Studio One, and Steinberg Cubase offer intuitive interfaces and support for third-party plugins necessary for creating exceptional music.

Consider seeking features like built-in instruments and effects, as well as comprehensive mixing and mastering tools when selecting the appropriate software.

Mastering the use of a DAW involves setting it up, grasping basic and advanced production techniques, and developing an efficient workflow. Tutorials can assist you in creating your first track, utilising virtual instruments, fundamental mixing techniques, and mastering basics.

Online courses, tutorials, books, guides, as well as communities and forums offer additional resources for gaining knowledge about electronic music production.

For more detailed insights on choosing the right DAW for your electronic music production journey, visit our comprehensive guide here.