A Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) is a comprehensive software application or platform used for recording, editing, arranging, mixing, and producing digital audio and music. It serves as a centralized hub for music and audio production, offering a range of tools and features that allow musicians, producers, and sound engineers to create, manipulate, and finalize audio content.
The best way to learn production is to go through the introductory tutorials and begin producing. A DAW is like any other instrument — you learn through practice and progress with familiarity.
There are three main DAWs we recommend (in terms of usability, resources available, and cost): FL Studio, Logic Pro X, and Ableton Live. Each DAW has a free trial/version available as well.
FL Studio is known for its intuitive and user-friendly interface, making it accessible to beginners and experienced users alike. Its pattern-based workflow and drag-and-drop functionality make it easy to create music quickly. Additionally, FL Studio offers free lifetime updates to its users. At $199, it is the most cost-effective DAW we recommend.
FL Studio 12 COMPLETE Basic Tutorial
A quick tutorial to FL's UI.
A better, more in-depth introduction to FL from Image-Line, taught by "FL Guru."
How to Make Beats in FL Studio - Busyworksbeats
Busyworksbeats posts live demonstrations and informative videos about FL Studio.
Ableton Live is the most powerful and versatile DAW, with a strong focus on live performance, real-time music creation, and electronic music productions. Though its price point may be steep ($349), it is well worth its cost.
The Best Ableton 11 Beginner Guide (In 17 Minutes)
A very, very fast introduction to Ableton.
In our opinion, the best series about not only Ableton, but producing in general. The creator is concise yet comical, a pairing that makes these videos pleasant to watch for any producer regardless of DAW.
A blog from the Ableton team with helpful tips.
Developed by Apple and used on the Mac OS, Logic is ideal for Mac users and those familiar with Garageband.
Logic Pro X Tutorial — Everything You Need to Know for Beginners
Again, a quick introduction.
Ultimate Guide to Logic Pro (10.7)
A longer guide to Logic.
Though not necessary to begin using a DAW, MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) controllers are essential tools in music production and performance. MIDI controllers offer a tactile and expressive way to interact with digital instruments and software. Musicians can use them to play virtual instruments with the nuance and expressiveness of acoustic instruments.
Our two recommendations for MIDI controllers are:
AKAI Professional MPK Mini MKII ($98)
AKAI Professional MPD218 ($119)
Music Tech Resources and Assignments - master list
For further help, check out this resource from NYU professor Ethan Hein