The Beginner’s Guide To Creating Music On Your Computer
This guide gives you an introduction to what you’ll need for making music with software, as well as tips on arranging, mixing, effects, and more.
Audio effects are designed to manipulate sound. They can be software (computer programs or plugins), or hardware (like guitar effects pedals or rack-mounted machines). The effect these devices have on sound can vary from a subtle colouration to all-out sonic terrorism!
There are a dizzying array of effects processors on the market but they fall into a small number of categories:
Audio effects are used by musicians to shape their tone into distinctive new forms, and by record producers and mastering engineers to make recordings sound more rich and full. Effects used to be the preserve of professional studios and millionaire rock stars, but the relentless march of technology means even beginners can now experience and use them to their heart’s desire.
Used carelessly, effects can rob an instrument of character and leave it lost in the mix… But in the hands of a master (such as U2’s The Edge) a musician can become a one-man soundscape.
Ear training can give you a deeper understanding of audio effects and help you:
The Hearing Effects series on FX ear training teaches you to recognise all the most common types of audio effects by ear, including modulation, delay, echo, reverb, and distortion effects. You’ll also find out how to choose the right settings for each type of effect. |
This guide gives you an introduction to what you’ll need for making music with software, as well as tips on arranging, mixing, effects, and more.
EDM is a fun and fascinating genre of music. Birthed at the end of the disco era, electronic dance music has made a huge impact on modern artists and culture.
Explore the different types of synthesis, how to generate them and include them in your musical creations. With demo samples and real tracks as examples.
Modulation audio effects are among the most popular, so train your ears for tremolo, vibrato, pitch shift, wah-wah. Learn how in this FX ear training tutorial.
Modulation effects, including chorus and flanger effects, are among most popular and noticeable audio effects. Learn about each type and how to hear them.
Reverb can create a subtle sound environment or have a strong impact on your tone. Learn more about reverb audio effects and how to train your ears for them.
In episode 5 of the Bass Tone podcast, Bass FX Part 1, Nick Long covers the most frequently used audio effects for the bass guitar. You’ll learn all about:
• Equalization (EQ), the cornerstone of a good effects chain
• Compression and Limiting to even out playing dynamics
• Multiband Compression
• Distortion, Overdrive and Fuzz Effects