Processor speedĬPU processor speed is still one of the most significant factors when it comes to processing power for audio. Use whatever type you’re most comfortable with.īut if you already know you’re going to be putting your music production computer through its paces with lots of demanding plugins, here are the computer specs that matter most.
PC or Mac used to be a hot debate in the pro audio community, but in recent years the difference between the two platforms has diminished.
You won’t need to buy a special, souped-up machine to start your home studio.Ī desktop or laptop with decent specs has enough processing muscle to get you started. To record digitally, you’ll need a computer.īut here’s the good news– Modern computers have plenty of processing power for audio tasks. The majority of today’s music production takes place in the digital domain. Music Computer: Digital music production center
Add at least 8 GB of RAM but no more than 32. Make sure you have an ASIO Audio Interface and 3. Choose the fastest CPU you can afford (this is critical). Just in case it was not clear, the information above basically says. Limitations breed creativity, work with what you have and rejoice in the democratization of modern music production. Even the lowliest of modern PCs will put that 4 track to shame. HISTORY: Your grandfather used a four-track tape recorder and made albums like A Hard Days Nightand Aftermaththat changed the face of modern music. FEAR: Not all 3rd party developers fully optimize their plugins and whatever plugin you are using may just be a nasty and or buggy CPU hog. Each audio stream needs real-time calculation of at least 44100 samples PER second multiplied by how many plugins you are running multiplied by their own internal shenanigans. It's often more CPU intensive than even 3D games, that offload a lot of work to the video card GPU. Audio processing, as performed by DAW software, is one of the most CPU intensive things done in real-time on computers today. 2. RESPECT: Don't throw 100's of plugins at your CPU wonder why it chokes. OPTIMIZE: Make sure you really have worked carefully through the optimization settings posted here.
Windows S users need to first upgrade to regular Windows 10.ġ. Windows - FL Studio will work on Windows 8.1 or 10 is required. The combined cost of these two will likely be similar to one laptop powerful enough to replace a desktop. Suggestion: Buy a relatively inexpensive netbook for mobile computing, and basic FL Studio idea-sketching, and get a good desktop PC for music production.
You need room for at least - 2 x hard drives, a full size graphic card & a soundcard. The optimum case will fit full-height PCI/e expansion cards for greatest flexibility. NOTE: By desktop we mean a ' full height tower' style case that will probably live under your desk (see Quiet PC below).
Of course, laptops can be used but you should have a specific requirement to be mobile with your music production/performance. Laptops also limit your options for expansion and upgrades. Generally laptops offer less power/performance compared to desktops at the same price-point. Real-time audio processing and synthesis are key, a fast CPU and an audio interface that has a manufacturer supplied ASIO driver are your top priorities. This article will focus your purchasing dollar to provide the most performance for music production.