Electronic music production is only becoming more popular, which means musicians and producers are replacing their analog equipment with digital tech.
Although electronic music saw its beginnings as early as the 1970s, it’s only recently that manufacturers are putting out unique lines of electronic products. It’s easier to integrate this technology in personal music setups and professional studios. As a result, it’s becoming more possible to play with an instrument’s tone, volume, pitch, etc.
If you’re ready to upgrade your gear, here are five ways you can digitize your music studio.
1) Electric Drums
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An electric drum set will feel quite different from your traditional sets, and players have to get used to how they feel. However, once you practice, you’ll love the ability to alter drum sounds in ways that a classic kit can’t do. An electric drum set gives the user control over the volume of their music without jeopardizing the music’s overall quality.
Electric drum kits are perfect for those who live in an area with stricter noise pollution policies due to their ability to produce the same sounds as regular drum sets without the volume. If you haven’t purchased a full drum kit because of noise concerns, the best practice drum pad will correctly mimic the sensation of an electric drum without disturbing your neighbors.
2) Synthesizers
The first instrument that was considered a synthesizer was made as far back as 1956. Since then, the tool has grown in popularity for its unique sounds and diverse applications.
Combining the piano with electric technology, a good example of its use is in the hit song “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by the Eurythmics. The distinct electronic sounds create an otherworldly feel for the listener, and today, synths are one of the main tools for music producers.
You likely have synths already if you have a home studio; however, if you’re used to playing classic rock without any electronics, you might find new possibilities in your band’s sound with a subtle synth.
3) Electronic Keyboards
Electronic keyboards are a twist on a classic instrument. Depending on the keyboard brand, players can decide the exact sound they want to create by pressing keys.
You can switch from classical piano to fog horn and even a cat meowing with the right set up. This allows the player a vast range of creative possibilities. Some favorite brands are Yamaha, Casio, and Roland.
4) Drum Machine
Having risen to popularity in the 1980s, drum machines are another example of technology that tests music’s limits. Modern drum machines allow the user to program their own rhythms and beats. They can produce complex arrangements, play “live” over an already existing piece of music, or just provide a simple beat loop.
Although not as common in today’s popular music, they still can be an integral part of any digital music setup.
5) Music Software
None of the instruments mentioned above would do much good without capable musical software with high data storage. Depending on the software, the composer can edit and modulate the music as they see fit, allowing for a wide array of possibilities even after the music is composed.
A few popular software options include Avid Pro Tools, FL Studio, and Garageband.
Conclusion
As technology continues to dominate our world, owning digitized music production equipment is a great asset. You can still use your favorite instruments, but use digitization to alter the sounds the piano, guitar, bass, drums, and voice produce. Even integrating classic instruments is a possibility.
All the equipment will expand your studio’s capabilities and increase your range as a musician and producer.