The Best Instruments for Creating New Electronic Music

This article is a collaborative effort, crafted and edited by a team of dedicated professionals.

Contributors: Andranick Tanguiane, Fred Lerdahl,

Contents

The electronic music scene is constantly evolving, and new instruments are constantly being created to meet the demands of producers and performers. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the best instruments for creating new electronic music.

Introduction

Electronic music is a genre of music that is created using electronic devices. This can include anything from computers to synthesizers to samplers. It is a very broad genre, and there are many different types of electronic music.

If you are interested in creating your own electronic music, you will need to choose the right instruments for the job. In this guide, we will recommend some of the best instruments for creating new electronic music. We will also provide some tips on how to get started.

Synthesizers
A synthesizer is an electronic instrument that can create a wide variety of sounds. Synthesizers can be used to create both melodic and percussive sounds. They are often used as the main instrument in electronic music.

There are many different types of synthesizers, and the best one for you will depend on your needs and preferences. If you are just starting out, we recommend a simple analog synth such as the Korg Volca Keys or the Arturia Microbrute. If you want something with more features, you might consider a digital synth such as the Novation Bass Station II or the Moog Subsequent 37.

Drum Machines
A drum machine is an electronic device that can be used to create percussion sounds. Drum machines are often used in conjunction with other instruments to create rhythm tracks. They can also be used as standalone devices for live performance or DJing.

There are many different types of drum machines, and the best one for you will depend on your needs and preferences. If you want something simple and affordable, we recommend the Akai MPC Touch or the Arturia DrumBrute Impact . If you are looking for something with more features, you might consider the Roland TR-8S or the Elektron Analog Rytm MKII .

Samplers
A sampler is an electronic device that can record and play back audio samples . Samplers can be used to create new sounds or to manipulate existing sounds . They are often used in conjunction with other instruments to create rhythm tracks or sound effects .

Sequencers
A sequencer is an electronic device that can be used to record and play back sequences of MIDI data . Sequencers can be used to create melody lines , bass lines , chord progressions , or even whole songs .

There are many different types of sequencers, and the best one for you will depend on your needs and preferences. If you want something simple and affordable, we recommend the Arturia Beatstep Pro . If you need something with more features, you might consider the Akai MPC Live or the Ableton Push 2 .

Drum Machines

Drum machines are perhaps the most essential piece of equipment for any electronic musician. They provide the backbone for your track, layering in complex rhythms and giving your music a solid foundation.

There are a wide variety of drum machines available on the market, from simple to complex, and they can be used to create any style of music. If you’re just getting started with electronic music production, we recommend checking out some of the more affordable and user-friendly options, such as the Arturia DrumBrute or the Teenage Engineering OP-1.

If you’re looking for a more versatile drum machine that can create a wider range of sounds, you may want to consider something like the Roland TR-8S or the Elektron Analog Rytm MKII. These machines are packed with features and allow you to create virtually any type of drumbeat imaginable.

Of course, drum machines are just one piece of the puzzle when it comes to creating electronic music. You’ll also need a good synthesizer, a MIDI controller, and some good quality speakers or headphones. But if you’re just getting started, a drum machine is a great place to start.

Synthesizers

Synthesizers are among the most popular instruments for creating electronic music. They come in a wide range of shapes, sizes and price points, so there’s one to suit every need and budget.

There are two main types of synthesizers: analog and digital. Analog synthesizers use electronic circuits to create and shape sound, while digital synthesizers use computer algorithms to generate sound. Both have their own distinct advantages and disadvantages.

Analog synthesizers tend to be more expensive and harder to use than digital ones, but they often create warmer, more organic-sounding tones.Digital synthesizers are usually more affordable and easier to use, but they can sometimes sound cold and clinical.

The best way to decide which type of synthesizer is right for you is to try both out and see which one you prefer. There are also hybrid synthesizers that combine elements of both analog and digital synthesis, so if you can’t decide, these might be worth considering as well.

MIDI Controllers

If you want to create electronic music, you need a MIDI controller. A MIDI controller is an electronic musical instrument that produces sound by sending MIDI messages to a sound module. The MIDI messages are generated by the player pressing keys on the controller, which can be played like a piano, or by moving knobs or faders, which can control various parameters of the sound.

There are many different types of MIDI controllers, and the best one for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you want a versatile controller that can be used for a variety of purposes, then a general-purpose MIDI controller is a good option. These controllers typically have a keyboard, pads, faders, and knobs, and can be used for composing, performing, and producing music. If you’re looking for a controller that is specifically designed for live performance, then a live performance controller is a better choice. These controllers often have features such as trigger pads and rotary encoders that are specifically designed for live performance situations.

No matter what type of MIDI controller you choose, it’s important to make sure that it is compatible with the software you want to use it with. Most MIDI controllers will work with any software that supports MIDI input, but some may have special features that are only compatible with certain software programs. Make sure to check the compatibility of your controller before you buy it!

Samplers

Traditionally, samplers have been hardware devices, but with the advent of powerful computer software, samplers are now available in Virtual Studio Technology (VST) plug-in form. Samplers work by playing back digital audio samples at a variety of pitches and speeds, often with the ability to add effects like filtering, delay, and reverb.

Popular sampler VSTs include Native Instruments’ Kontakt and Battery, Abelton Live’s Sampler instrument, and UVI Workstation. Hardware samplers are still used by some producers, particularly in the hip hop genre, where the warm sound of vintage gear is often prized.

Samplers are a versatile tool for electronic music production, capable of being used for everything from creating beats to generating complex melodic phrases.

Sequencers

In music, a sequence is the repetition of a musical phrase over time. Sequencers are devices that can record, edit, and playback musical sequences. In the context of electronic music, a sequencer can be hardware (an actual piece of equipment) or software (a computer program).

There are many different types of sequencers, but they all share some common features. First, they have a way to input musical notes or events. This can be done with a MIDI keyboard, by drawing notes on a grid, or by entering numbers into a matrix. Second, they have a way to edit these notes or events. This might be as simple as moving them around on a grid or changing their velocity (how hard they are played). More sophisticated sequencers might allow you to change the pitch, length, or other properties of the notes. Third, they have a way to playback the sequence. This is usually done with an internal sound-generating device, but it can also be done by sending MIDI data to an external synthesizer.

Sequencers are an essential tool for creating electronic music. They allow you to create complex patterns and rhythms that would be impossible to play by hand. They also make it easy to try out different ideas and experiment with different sounds. If you’re interested in making your own electronic music, you should definitely learn how to use a sequencer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, what are the best instruments for creating new electronic music? It really depends on what kind of music you want to create. If you’re looking for something more traditional, then a keyboard or piano might be your best bet. If you’re looking to create something more unique and experimental, then an electronic drum kit or a theremin might be better suited for you. No matter what your preference is, there are plenty of options out there for you to choose from. So get out there and start making some noise!

Similar Posts