Nowadays that virtually all music recording has gone digital…

1. Best Mac For Home Recording Studio
2. Best Macbook To Buy 2018
3. Best Mac For Home Studio 2018 India
4. Home Studio Setup

The first question on every musician’s mind when first starting out with music production is:

Which computer should I get?

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• In 2018, the best Macs are capable of more than ever before. Read on to see which Mac should be on your Black Friday list.

Though as I’m sure you already know, there is no “one-size-fits-all” answer.

Because depending on factors such as:

• budget
• processing speed
• portability

YOUR ideal option might be completely different from someone else’s.

Which is why for today’s post, I intend to show you everything you need to know to find the perfect computer/laptop for YOUR setup.

So let’s begin. First up…

Laptops vs. Desktops

More and more these days, as technology becomes increasingly “mobile“…

Desktop computers are slowly becoming a thing of the past.

Yet for music recording, they’re still what all the pros continue to use.

Here’s why:

• They’re generally faster – their larger housing offers room for maximum processing power to meet the high demands of today’s DAW’s and plugins.
• They have more IN’s/OUT’s – which allow you to incorporate larger, more sophisticated routings to keep up with your ever-growing setup.
• They offer greater customization – which let’s you add more RAM, extra hard drives, additional video cards, and more…as necessary.
• They solve the noise problem – by allowing you to keep the tower (noisy) in a separate room for your studio monitors and microphones.

Despite all these advantages, the ONE thing that desktop computers lack is…PORTABILITY.

And in today’s world of DJ’s and mobile studios, the portability of a laptop is a MUST.

Plus…since most of us use a laptop for school/work anyway, it eliminates the need for 2 separate purchases.

Now at this point, I’ll assume you’ve already decided whether a desktop or laptop computer is right for you.

So let’s move on. Up next…

Mac vs. PC

Want to know the easiest way to piss-off a recording geek? Here’s what you do:

If he uses a PC in his studio, tell him Macs are better.

If he uses a Mac, tell him PC’s are better.

Because for some strange reason, this topic incites violent debates…that last forever, and result in no real conclusions.

In fact, I absolutely HATE giving my opinion on this topic.

But here it is anyway:

Personally, I like Macs. Not just for recording, but for everything. And these days, most of the music world (and the rest of the world) agrees.

If YOU agree as well…get a Mac.

So why a PC then? It’s usually 1 of 3 reasons:

1. Price – Macs are usually more expensive than PC’s, and not everyone can afford them.
2. Customization – computer nerds typically prefer PC’s, since they are much easier to modify/supercharge.
3. Windows – some people just like the Windows OS.

If none of these 3 things apply to you…get a Mac.

But whichever side you choose, just know that tons of great music has been created on either one, and this topic isn’t nearly as important as some might have you believe.

Assuming you’ve made your decision…let’s move on.

Up next…

Mac Desktops

With Mac desktops, you have 4 options:

1. Mac Pro
2. iMac
3. iMac Pro
4. Mac Mini

Now here’s how they compare:

First, there’s the Mac Pro.

For studio recording, there’s probably nothing better. Peek your head into any pro studio…and odds are, that’s what you’ll find.

And the reason why is because it’s the only model that’s made to be easily upgradable, whichever part you’re looking to switch.

Now, up until not so long ago, the Mac Pro was just overkill for most of us, whether it was in terms of specs, or price.

However…

There is a serious, brand new contender on the desktop mac scene: the iMac pro.

The iMac pro is basically the MOST POWERFUL (yes, way more powerful than the Mac Pro) mac to date, with the added benefit of being an iMac, meaning it’s an all-in-one computer with a monitor built-in.

Now, one look at the base model price and you’ll understand why this model is not for everyone… And don’t even look at the price of the boosted out model if you’re faint of heart.

But if you’re looking for the most powerful mac out there and don’t mind making a (very) long-term investment, the iMac Pro will have you covered for the next decade or so.

Now for the overwhelming majority of us who can’t afford the iMac Pro, the next option is probably the best: the iMac.

While not nearly as powerful, the regular iMac is equally as practical for a typical beginner’s setup.

If you can afford it, it’s quite likely the ideal choice for most home studios.

If you CAN’T however, your final option is the Mac Mini.

How many times have your heard someone say:

I want to get a Mac, but they’re too expensive 🙁

Well the Mac Mini is proof that this is not entirely true.

And quite surprisingly, while the older models were definitely not on par with the iMac or Mac Pro in terms of speed…

The newer models, and especially the boosted ones show surprisingly good performances on the benchmark, and in some cases even outperforms the regular iMac.

It may not have the speed or flexibility of the more expensive models…but it offers ALL the benefits of the Mac OSX, for a very modest price tag.

• Mac Pro – (Amazon/B&H/GuitarC/MusicianF)
• iMac Pro – (Amazon/B&H)
• iMac – (Amazon/B&H/GuitarC/MusicianF)
• Mac Mini – (Amazon/GuitarC/B&H)

Up next…

PC Desktops

For those of you guys who build custom PCs…

I have no doubt you know far more about this subject than I do…

So…

If you can assemble something faster and better than a Mac Pro…go for it.

I wouldn’t dare try to convince you otherwise.

If however, you DON’T fall into this category, and you really don’t know much about computers at all…

Then I suggest staying away from PC desktops altogether.

And here’s why:

If you’re NOT a huge PC fan, the only reason to choose a PC for your studio would be if you’re a beginner trying to save money.

And since the main benefit of desktop computer is MORE PROCESSING POWER, it makes little sense to get any desktop that isn’t blazing fast.

So if you only have $500 to spend, you might as well get a laptop, so you can at least have some portability as well.

Having said that, let’s move on…

The 4 KEY Laptop Specs

Since we’ve already established that laptops are…in a way…”less-than-ideal” for music production…

Here are 5 potential issues to look out for:

1. Mechanical Noise – if you’re a DJ in a loud club, this obviously doesn’t matter. But in a bedroom studio, it matters a lot. One way to check for this: read a ton of user reviews. Another way: opt for a SSD (solid state drive) with no moving parts, over a traditional HDD (hard disk drive).
2. Backlit Keys – in low-light environments such as lounges and clubs, these are a MUST-HAVE.
3. Screen Size – you may not think it’s important now, but once you’ve spent some time with any DAW, you’ll quickly see how valuable a bigger screen can be.
4. Ports – as laptops get increasingly smaller, the number of ins/outs gets smaller as well. So make sure you have enough to get by.

Now let’s check out some laptops already…

Mac Laptops

With Mac laptops you have 3 options:

1. Macbook Pro
2. Macbook Air
3. Macbook

First, there’s the Macbook Pro.

My best guess is…Macbook Pros are the single most popular laptops for home recording.

1. They’re ultra fast
2. They’ve got lots of inputs
3. They have large screen with detailed display

If you can afford it, get it. If not…

Then the Macbook and Macbook Air come in TIED at a distant2nd place.

They’re not as fast, and they don’t have nearly as many inputs, but they’re extremely thin and lightweight…the Macbook Air ESPECIALLY!

So there you go. Check them out:

• Macbook Pro – (Amazon/B&H/GuitarC/MusicianF)
• Macbook Air – (Amazon/B&H/GuitarC/MusicianF)
• Macbook – (Amazon/B&H/GuitarC/MusicianF)

Up next…

PC Laptops

On one hand, PC laptops are GREAT…

Because you have a virtually unlimited number of options to choose from.

On the other hand, PC laptops SUCK…for the exact same reason.

And what I mean by that is…

While it’s nice to have options, the more options you have, the harder it is:

• to actually choose one
• to be certain you’ve made the right choice
• to be happy with your choice after you’ve made it

And unfortunately, for music production, there is no clear-cut winner that stands out from all the others.

But as most people agree…the best PC laptops for music tend to be the best PC laptops in general.

So here are 5 of the most popular and well-reviewed options:

• HP Envy – (Amazon/B&H)
• Asus Zenbook – (Amazon/B&H)
• LG Gram – (Amazon/B&H)
• Dell Inspiron – (Amazon/B&H)
• Lenovo Yoga 3 – (Amazon)

Up next…

DAW System Requirements

One important point worthy of mention that rarely gets discussed…

Is the system requirements for your DAW of choice.

Even though these days, most computers are compatible with most DAW’s…

In some rare cases…they’re NOT, so you should always double check just to make sure.

If you don’t have a preferred DAW yet, or don’t even know what a DAW is, then don’t worry about this part.

However for those of you that DO, here are the links to the system requirements for each of today’s top DAW’s:

Up next…

3 Essential Computer Accessories

Once you’ve finally chosen a computer, next come the ACCESSORIES.

For recording studios, the 3 accessories I recommend are:

• a keyboard
• a mouse
• a monitor

Now here’s what you want from each one…

1. The Keyboard

While any old keyboard will do…

Your ideal keyboard should include 3 features:

1. DAW shortcut markers – which help you memorize all those shortcuts WAY faster.
2. A number pad – which includes a TON of useful shortcuts for most DAW’s.
3. A wireless connection – which allows you access to your transport controls from anywhere in the room.

NOTE: Even if you have a laptop, you may still find it worthwhile to buy an external keyboard. That’s how useful they are.

Now here are my 2 favorites:

1. Logitech Wireless Solar Keyboard – besides having a number pad and a wireless connection, this keyboard has one unique feature that you almost never see: solar power. That means no batteries or cables ever.
   • PC – (Amazon/B&H)
   • Mac – (Amazon/B&H)
2. LogicKeyboard Custom DAW Keyboards – (website) – easily the most well-known maker of software shortcut markers, LogicKeyboard has both custom keyboards and skin layovers for virtually every DAW/keyboard combo imaginable.

Up next…

2. The Mouse

Again…while any old mouse (or trackpad) will do…

With a really good mouse…

A few programmable buttons can give you access to your most frequently used DAW shortcuts without ever touching your keyboard.

And this one tool can speed up your workflow significantly.

While there are an almost infinite number of these mice to choose from…I suggest Logitech.com as a good place to start your search.

My personal favorite mouse in their line is the Logitech MX Ergo – (Amazon/B&H). If you’re not sure what to get, I highly recommend it.

For some other great options, check these out as well:

• Logitech MX Master2S – (Amazon/B&H)
• Logitech MX Anywhere 2S – (Amazon/B&H)

3. The Computer Monitor

When you first start out with home recording…

You probably won’t recognize the value of REALLY GOOD monitor right away.

But eventually, after working without one for a while…

You’ll notice 3 things:

1. Low resolution screens can only display a small number of tracks at once.
2. Flat screen TV’s often look pixelated, and are awkward to view from close up.
3. Screens with slower refresh rates can’t display level meters in sync with the track.

Any one of these problems alone is annoying. All 3 together will drive you crazy.

And once that happens, I highly suggest getting a good external monitor.

For a good high-end option, here is an example of something that would work well:

• LG 27″ 4k – (Amazon/B&H)

As an alternative, any standard monitor (such as this one) will work almost as well, such as he HP 27er.

• Click here to compare prices – (Amazon/B&H)

Chances are, there are hundreds of videos languishing on your smartphone, DSLR or compact camera. Instead of letting it collect dust, why not polish it up to share with family and friends? That's where a good video editing program comes in.

Among the paid software, only one — Adobe Premiere Elements 2019— is truly cross-platform, and it emerged as our top pick. Despite its lack of emerging popular technologies, like 360-degree video handling and multicam editing features, it's the easiest video editor to learn and use, and offers plenty of advanced functions, such as guided edits and a revised home screen.

CyberLink PowerDirector 16 is the best video editing software for Windows, featuring a dazzling array of tricks and treats; plus, it's great for editing 360-degree videos, too.

Apple’s iMovie, which competes only with cross-platform free apps and Adobe Elements, is the obvious choice for the best Mac video editing software, thanks to its outstanding output, themes and trailers, macOS integration, and features that encourage good moviemaking skills. For the best free software, HitFilm Express gets the nod for its abundant cinematic capabilities and stylish interface. If you often share your videos on YouTube and other social media platforms, the free, cross-platform VideoPad is your best option.

Adobe Premiere Elements 2019

Adobe Premiere Elements continues its long reign as the overall best consumer video-editing app, with new automated features and simplified workflows for quick video editing.

CyberLink PowerDirector 16

PowerDirector 16 makes it easy to edit 360-degree videos, but there are a lot of other great features in this program, too.

Apple iMovie 10.1.8

iMovie gives Mac users an easy way to get started creating high-quality movies from videos shot on all kinds of devices.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall

Reasons to Buy

Reasons to Avoid

When it comes to user-friendliness, sophisticated features and ways to output your video, nothing beats the cross-platform Adobe Premiere Elements. For 2019, Adobe streamlined the Quick Edits interface, making it all the more easy for novices to jump in. The company's AI now creates collages and slideshows automatically, and can also trim the fat off your videos.

Best for Windows

Reasons to Buy

Reasons to Avoid

Best Mac For Home Recording Studio

Best Macbook To Buy 2018

CyberLink PowerDirector offers a dazzling array of fun, advanced video editing features wrapped in a stunning, easy-to-use package. For this year, Cyberlink has beefed up its 360-degree capabilities, making it far easier to edit 360 videos.

Best for Mac

Reasons to Buy

Reasons to Avoid

Apple iMovie is the ultimate Mac video app for novice filmmakers, combining professional trailers and themes,abundant special effects and an easy-to-learn interface. Version 10.1 added 4K editing and sharing, as well as extended handling to video shot at 1080p and 60 fps. Recent updates tweaked the interface and added Touch Bar support for the latest MacBooks.
Update (June 2019): iMovie is now on version 10.1.12. Recent updates have disabled sharing videos to iMovie Theater and Facebook; you have to save your movies to iCloud Photos to watch them on other devices including Apple TV.

Best Mac For Home Studio 2018 India

Best Free Video Editor

Reasons to Buy

Reasons to Avoid

The free HitFilm Express has a quirky but appealing interface and plenty of powerful features, including a new layout panel and better export tools. An optional Starter Pack ($9.99) adds even more editing options. It's good for prosumers and enthusiasts with cross-platform editing and compositing abilities, tracking options, 2D and 3D effects, speed controls, audio tools and an arsenal of instructional videos.
Update (May 2019): Hitfilm Express has been updated since our last review; improvements include new text tools, accelerated decoding of video files with Nvidia GPUs, native support for Dolby AC3 audio, and more. Stay tuned for our updated review.

Best for Beginners

Reasons to Buy

Reasons to Avoid

Corel VideoStudio, an outstanding editing package for beginners on the Windows platform, is a powerful but easy-to-learn app for anyone who wants to make simple videos quickly without fussing around with complex controls. Its spare but inviting interface offers 360-degree video editing, enhanced lens-correction tools, and 3D text editing.

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Best for YouTube

Reasons to Buy

Reasons to Avoid

Home Studio Setup

VideoPad is a comprehensive cross-platform software package for the YouTube social media crowd. While this app lacks the flashy, whiz-bang appeal of some commercial apps, it’s still a rock-solid choice for simple video editing. From the main menu, you can choose which social network you want to upload to. The app offers a number of YouTube choices ranging from 480p to 4K, as well as Facebook, Flickr, Dropbox and Google Drive, and is free for non-commercial use.

Best for advanced enthusiasts

Reasons to Buy

Reasons to Avoid

A powerful pro-level app, cross platform you’ll want to use a system with discrete graphics to get the most out of this editor.

The latest version of DaVinci incorporates Fusion, previously a stand-alone application, which brings with it four high-end video-production modules for editing, color correction, audio production, and video effects and motion graphics. This video editor is quite powerful, but has a bit of a learning curve. If its 256-page manual doesn't intimidate you, high-level enthusiasts will find a lot of tools at their disposal.

How We Tested

We tested more than a dozen programs — paid and free — on consumer Mac and Windows laptops for more than 100 hours, to see which are the best for editing, as well as sharing your videos with friends and family.

We evaluated all of the software based on functionality, ease of use, performance, sharing options and new features in the latest versions. We also judged the packages based on real-life uses for a number of categories, including best overall, best free app, best for beginners, best for YouTube maestros, best for Mac users and best for Windows platforms.

Free or Fee?

There’s no reason for the occasional video jockey to fork over any cash, as there are plenty of free apps available for both Windows and Mac. But while the deciding factors for free and paid software may appear to be based on cold hard cash, that’s not the whole story.

People who are looking for a more powerful editor with a variety of built-in resources, responsive technical support and more would be better off dropping some cash on a video editing program.

However, there’s a third option: You can download software such as VideoPad or HitFilm (which offer all of the basics) for free, and then purchase additional features à la carte as your experience and needs grow.

Speed

Performance results are important, but they’re not critical components of software evaluations, because depending on your hardware setup, your mileage will vary. By comparison, ease of use, interface and features carry more weight than export clock speed. Nonetheless, as a single measure among many, speed testing provides valuable comparative information.

As several of the programs on this page have been updated with newer versions since their initial review, we are currently in the process of re-testing them. At the same time, we are upgrading our testing platforms, from laptops with integrated graphics to those with discrete GPUs. This will better reflect the improvement in performance from apps that can take advantage of discrete graphics cards. Stay tuned for the results.