Dubstepforum.com

Hi, I'm Joe.

I have a fair amount of money and the latest mac computer. I love dub/brostep especially the obvious artists like Skrillex, Datsik, Excision etc.

Like everyone else I want to start making my own tunes in that style. What do items do I need on my shopping list? I don't mind spending a bit to get the highest quality software, plug ins and hardware - advice please?

Thanks

You need a Digital Audio Workstation like Logic, Reaper, Cubase, Ableton Live , etc.
You may need a decent sound interface because it will be a better option than onboard sound.
You may need a keyboard if you want to play keys.
You may need a device that allows you to trigger samples with pads like an mpc.

But you only really need a daw.

Good to see another producer. There happens to be a dubstep production bible right here at DSF.
http://dubstepforum.com/viewtopic.php?f=8&t=159713

I agree, since you have the computer, the first thing you should get is a DAW. Try Cockos Reaper because it is fully functional without paying.

If you don't mind spending some dough on monitors,
i hear ADAM makes some of the best
ADAM A7X/A8X are the ones to look for,
you dont need them but you said you dont mind spending some money to get the best quality hardware etc.

Ableton is a wicked DAW to gets your hands dirty for the first time.. If your new, don't worry about VST's (Plugins), just learn your DAW, what it does, and how to use it fully.. I have a midi controller (Akai MPK Mini), and it has saved my ass multiple times.. I play out all my notes on my keys, cause I love that some what organic sound.. Pure piano roll, just seems to on grid for me.. I do however adjust the timing after I record, cause sometimes it can be a little off...

But ya, like Electric_Head said, all you really need is a DAW :3

You need good ideas!

Thanks all.

So do all your sounds come from your DAW to begin with? Can I make a standard dubstep track with just the sounds on my DAW?

Generally yes.
It depends on the in built synths that come with the daw.
If you want separate synths then you either purchase them or download free synths.
A synthesizer is what will make the actual sound.

joejackson92 wrote:Thanks all.

So do all your sounds come from your DAW to begin with? Can I make a standard dubstep track with just the sounds on my DAW?

Of corse You Can many songs of the artista You Name have been made with headphones and massive. You Can have expensive gear like I do and 0 idea and You end up with nothing good.

Good ideas make great songs... 1st rule.

Is Reaper decent enough to start with? Will it have decent synth and drum sounds?

Reaper is excellent but does not come with a capable synth.
The Sampler is good enough but not the synth.
Get yourself some free drum samples and something Like Rez or Oatmeal synth for example.
Check out BRB http://bedroomproducersblog.com/
The links at the top have ample samples, syths, etc.
You'll find the ones I've mentioned and more.

Try out several DAW demo's, and see what fits you the most. Samples and VSTs are something to worry about later, but if you are into dubstep I suggest you to get Albino, Massive and Sylenth1.

Thanks again lads

After you choose a DAW then start playing with the free synths/fx from places like BRB like Electric_Head mentioned to wrap your head around the basics. When you are ready to buy some VST's I would say choose only one or two and learn the crap out of them versus buying a bunch all at once. Good luck man!