How to Build a Music Recording Computer

The computer has become the centerpiece of music production today, and operating a studio without one is like driving a horse and buggy on the highway. Building your own music recording computer has many benefits, the foremost being price. In addition, if anything goes wrong with the computer later, you'll have a good idea on how to fix it. Also, you'll know that it's optimized for operating your music software at peak performance if you're the one shopping for the components.

Things You'll Need

• Sound card
• Motherboard
• CPU (central processing unit)
• RAM
• Hard drive
• Computer case/tower
• Music software (DAW, audio editor, sampler, VSTs, etc.)

Instructions

1. Research the components. It's important to know exactly what you need before you build the computer. Make a list of all the hardware and software. Make sure to write the recommended specifications, not the minimum requirements. Go to the manufacturer's website for this information.

2. Choose a professional sound card. This will be the computer's most essential piece of hardware. Low latency will be a key factor if any virtual instruments will be used as well as high quality AD/DA (analog-to-digital/digital-to-analog) converters. This is where the most time should be spent, as the quality of recording will all stem from here. Companies that make high quality soundcards include RME, M-Audio, and Digidesign.

3. Choose a case and power supply. This should be a standard ATX case. Think toward the future for possible hardware additions to insure there will be ample power.

4. Pick a motherboard and CPU. Motherboards only work with specific CPUs. The companies to choose from on the CPU side are Intel and AMD. On the motherboard side, it's Asus and Gigabyte. Read trade magazines and lurk on forums to decide what is appropriate.

5. Choose RAM. The important thing to look for here is that all the RAM has the same bus speed and clock frequency. Whatever the recommended specs, go higher which is always good with RAM.

6. Choose a hard drive. Audio files are not small. Purchase a hard drive with plenty of space for everything including the operating system and music software. A fast access time is also desirable.

7. Pick a DAW. This will be the most important piece of software. Think long and hard. Download demos. This will aid in deciding which DAW is the right fit for you. Don't go just by reputation. Evaluate which one you work in more productively. Read reviews. Serious audio aficionados use one of the "fabulous five": Pro Tools, Cubase, Logic, Sonar, or Digital Performer.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't go heavy on the incidentals like DVD-ROM burner, video card, monitors, etc. They are not very important. Getting the recommended equipment should do the trick just fine. Save the big money for the key components.

• Unless you have experience building computers, have someone else build it who knows what they're doing. Get something in writing as far as a warranty for service if at all possible.

• Do not buy Creative Soundblaster soundcards. They are not pro soundcards.

References

• Building A Music Computer