Building a PC for Music Production in 2023

Are you ready to take your music production skillset to the next level? Well, buckle up because we’re about to embark on a mission to build the ideal PC setup for music production. When it comes to making great music, having the right tools is essential – and that starts with your computer. A powerful and reliable PC is essential for running complex music software and handling large files. But with so many options available, building a music PC can be overwhelming to know where to begin, unlike music production laptops which have it all built-in. That’s where we come up with this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to consider when building your production PC – from processors and RAM to storage options and peripherals. So let’s dive right in and discover the best pc for music production!

So let’s get on with it…

Building The Best PC for Music Production in 2023

The CPU

CPU The CPU, or central processing unit, is the heart of your computer. It’s responsible for executing the instructions that your software gives it. For music production, you need a powerful CPU that can handle multiple tracks, effects, and virtual instruments without lagging. We recommend an Intel Core i9 or AMD Ryzen 9 CPU for you to build the best pc for music production possible.

Motherboard

The motherboard is the foundation of your music production PC and plays a crucial role in its performance and stability. When selecting a motherboard for your system, ensure it’s compatible with both your CPU and other components as well as having all necessary features for optimal music production workflow.

When it comes to motherboards, there are two primary types: Intel and AMD. Intel motherboards are compatible with Intel CPUs, while AMD motherboards work with AMD CPUs. When selecting the right type for your CPU, make sure it matches perfectly for optimal performance.

When selecting a motherboard, other features to consider include the number of USB ports, onboard audio, networking capabilities, and expansion slots for adding future components.

We recommend motherboards like the ASUS Prime Z590-A or the TUF GAMING X570-PLUS. These motherboards offer excellent performance, stability, and features that are well-suited for music production.

RAM

RAM(memory) or random access memory, is the short-term memory of your computer. It’s where your software stores the data it needs to run. For music production, you need a lot of RAM to avoid running out of memory. We recommend at least 16GB of RAM, but 32GB or more is even better. RAM is extremely important to build the best PC for Music Production

Basically the more RAM you have then the more simultaneous tasks your PC can perform at one time, so as you can imagine for music production that can be a lot.

Storage

When it comes to music production, having enough storage space is essential, especially when working with large audio files. A solid-state drive or NVME is a great option for your operating system and software as it provides fast read and write speeds. This ensures that your computer can quickly load your programs and that your workflow is not disrupted by slow loading times. As for storing your audio files, a large SSD is recommended to ensure that you have enough space for all your projects. We recommend the Samsung 970 EVO Plus 2 TB! It’s worth noting that you can also use an external hard drive for storing your files if you need even more space. Just make sure that it is fast enough to handle the demands of music production.

Graphics Card

A graphics card, or GPU, isn’t strictly necessary for music production. However, it can help speed up some tasks, like rendering audio visualizations or even playing a game of Call of Duty while you take a break. We recommend an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1080 or above or any AMD Radeon RX as a budget option. With any of these graphics cards, you should be good to go. This article is about the best PC for music production and so we won’t focus much on graphics cards as the fact of the matter is, pretty much any will work.

Audio Interface

Investing in a high-quality audio interface is essential for achieving professional-grade sound in your music production. Not only does it enable better recording quality and low latency monitoring, but it also provides necessary connectivity options for various audio equipment. Popular choices such as Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 and PreSonus AudioBox offer reliable performance with a user-friendly interface. When selecting which audio interface best suits your setup, consider factors like required inputs/outputs.

You can check out our article on audio interfaces to find out the current best audio interfaces!

Monitor

Monitors are essential components of your music production setup, enabling you to clearly see your software and make informed decisions about your mix. When selecting a monitor, take into account factors like size, resolution, and color accuracy. We suggest going for at least 1920 x 1080 resolution with at least 27 inches or larger for optimal viewing experience. IPS panels offer superior color accuracy which makes identifying any issues with your mix easier. Popular options for music production include Dell U2722D UltraSharp 27 or ASUS ProArt Display PA278QV.

The fact is that you can use any monitor or even tv to view your PC however our pick has to be the Dell U2722D UltraSharp 27.

Audio Card(Sound Card)

A good Sound Card is a crucial component of your music production setup as it affects the quality of the sound coming in and out of your computer. A good audio card can enhance the clarity, depth, and richness of your recordings and mixes. It provides multiple inputs and outputs for connecting microphones, instruments, and other audio devices. We recommend investing in a dedicated audio card if you’re serious about music production. Options like the Creative Sound Blaster Audigy FX and the ASUS Xonar SE offer excellent sound quality and features at an affordable price. However, if you require more professional-grade equipment, you may want to consider higher-end options like the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20.

It is worth noting that not all music producers use a sound card, Well they do obviously, however, it’s built into their motherboard. Motherboards are more than capable of delivering high-quality sound nowadays without the need for a sound card. It is however recommended should you be doing live recordings and mixes.

Studio Monitors

Finding the ideal studio monitors for your music production setup can be a daunting task with so many options available. When making a choice, take into account factors like frequency response, power, and size into account; additionally, investing in high-grade cables and stands will guarantee optimal sound transmission and placement. By carefully selecting monitors tailored to your needs, you’ll achieve greater accuracy and precision with your production – ultimately leading to superior results.

Studio Monitors are one of the most important parts of your music production setup. They allow you to hear your mix accurately and make informed decisions about your sound. We recommend the Yamaha HS8 or the KRK Rokit 8.

We have a great article looking at the current best-budget studio monitors!

Headphones

Headphones can be a valuable addition to your music production setup, allowing you to mix and record your music even in a noisy environment. When choosing the right headphones, it’s important to consider factors like comfort, sound quality, and noise isolation. The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x and Sennheiser HD 650 are popular choices among music producers, providing excellent sound quality and comfort. They also offer good noise isolation, allowing you to focus on your mix without being disturbed by external sounds. With the right headphones, you can fine-tune your music to perfection, whether you’re in the studio or on the go.

Check out our write-up on some fantastic headphones for music production

It is easy to spend thousands and thousands on premium parts, however, we have decided to cut some costs and go for more of a “best bang for your buck” approach, that being said…

Here is our best PC for Music Production in 2023:

So, that’s about all!

Building the ultimate music production PC requires a bit of research, patience, and investment. But with the right components, you’ll be able to create music like never before, with faster processing, better sound quality, and a more enjoyable overall experience. Remember to consider your needs, budget, and preferences when choosing how to build the best PC for Music Production. With the tips and recommendations provided in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to building a music production powerhouse that will allow you to create your best work.

You can obviously use a laptop for music production, If you want to learn more about laptops for music production then we have a great article on just that subject.