A beginner’s home edm studio setup only requires a few gears. But, many artists still mess up or lack ideas on how to start. Other people will argue that they need to buy all the music production gear to be successful.
Before the end of this article, you will learn all the requirements to set up your EDM studio. Furthermore, I will provide you with easy steps to follow to become a successful EDM producer.
Beginner’s Home Studio EDM Studio Setup Gear Pack
The main advantage of becoming an EDM producer is that you do not need all the fancy gears. There are only two things that you cannot do without it. I.E., a DAW and headphones. So why are you still confused?
If you have a digital audio work station and something to listen in, you’re good to go. There you have the most straightforward EDM home studio set up. EDM production does not involve a lot of vocal recording s like average production. It consists of playing around with the synthesis, samples and some few instruments
Budget/Plan
It is a fact that emd studio setup needs investment to make it reproductive. Wealthy people could only produce electronic music production in the past. But, we are in the 21st century, and the electronic items are cheaper.
The most important thing to have before spending money is a plan. Besides, a producer needs to know the goals to achieve. For instance, to make music a journey, you need a budget for equipment and not an empty account to get EDM studio for fun.
Second, priorities matters. For example, a vocalist needs to spend on a microphone and audio interface. A guitar player can buy an audio interface while a piano player needs a MIDI keyboard. It means you do not have to spend a lot of money on something that you have never used it.
Moreover, a producer needs to identify gears by prioritizing essential items. After the gear plan, make a fixed budget for the amount of money you want to invest.
Computer
As an EDM artist or producer, you will need a laptop to up your sample and synthesis manipulation game. Of course, you don’t need fancy equipment on this one. An average laptop or desktop should serve the purpose well.
Should I go for Mac or Windows O.S? All platforms meet the requirements for such tasks because of the availability of cross-platform software. Using a computer will also improve your EDM production experience. For example, you can be able to connect it with other devices such as the MIDI controllers.
However, if you decide on using the Logic Pro X DAW, then you will need to have a Mac. The software is not yet available for other platforms. You will find so many programs only dedicated to mac users. But that doesn’t mean that other platforms do not have a similar product.
Read our reviews for the Best PC’s for Music Productionand Best Laptops for Music Production.
Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)
The most important thing that any producer should own is a DAW. It is a type of software that you can use for mixing, recording, processing, editing digital audio. You can find it as a piece of hardware but in sporadic cases.
Some of the most popular DAWs are Logic, Ableton Live, Pro Tools, Audacity, and Reaper. All have unique capabilities but share a common goal, which is to record, edit, and process audio.
Some of these digital audio workstations can incorporate MIDI functionality. Doing that allows them to program the notes. Furthermore, it will enable you to control synthesizers and virtual instruments. You can add plugins to perform advanced tasks such as vintage amp modeling.
A DAW is one of the items that you cannot survive without as a producer. It is like playing soccer or rugby without a ball, which is impossible. If you’re planning to set up your home studio, the at least have a budget for a DAW.
As a beginner on a budget, you can try free DAWs that are available. Some of these software are Audacity, Though Reaper, GarageBand, and CakeWalk. They are accessible, and some of them are easy to learn and intuitive, such as GarageBand. Reaper and Audacity are free multi-platform apps, but they have a primitive interface.
Using a DAW is not very complicated. You need to update the necessary drivers first and then assign inputs and outputs. Doing that will give you a thumbs up for recording and playback. Next, you can create and record tracks and edit them with the available features and plugins.
Choosing a DAW
The most useful thing that you can own as an EDM producer is a DAW. It is the environment that allows you to create music. Even a beginner’s home studio EDM setup needs to have a professional DAW.
If you are serious about production, you should invest in the best, especially now that you are dealing with a sensitive music genre. The electronic dance music, it is one of the few genres that depends on the quality of the software.
Reaper
It is stable and versatile software that comes at a low cost. I recommend Reaper for beginners that can’t afford the other software programs. Luckily it features an evaluation period that is complete and contains all features.
You can use the evaluation period to decide whether it deserves the $60 price. At first, it may be difficult, but as you continue learning, it becomes easy to use. Reaper is a cheap DAW and still contains a lot of options and features.
Logic Pro X
It is one of the most popular DAW that electronic music producer’s use. Other producers also use it for mixing and recording. It is an entirely done DAW, so you will not get those annoying upgrade notifications. You need a one-time buy, and that’s all.
The only downside about this software is that it’s only available for Mac users. Also, it doesn’t have a demo period. Logic Pro X costs around $199. You can use Garage Band or watch YouTube tutorials to decide if the Logic Pro X is suitable for your needs.
FL Studio 12 Producer Edition
As a beginner, you will find this DAW easy to learn and use. Also, it comes with a demo version, and it has so many resources that you can use. It costs around $199, which is worth it for an EDM artist.
Read our reviews for Best DAW for Beginners Review & Buyer’s Guide and DAW vs DAW – How Do They All Compare?.
Plugins
Plugins form an essential part of your DAW. They add extra features to help make your music production authentic and unique. Logic Pro X and F.L. Studio have an extensive range of plugins pre-installed. So as a beginner, you don’t have to splash a lot of money into acquiring new plugins
If you are using a free DAW or a cheaper one like Reaper, then it’s good to invest in plugins. Lately, most DAWs contain great plugins for effects. Purchasing a synthesizer before investing in a plugin is a good idea.
Synthesizers
Set a conducive production environment for EDM artists. The best combination for modern EDM is a Serum synthesizer and an Ableton DAW. Note that not all DAW synthesizers can perform well in Modern EDM.
EDM Studio Monitoring System
A DAW is useless if you don’t have something to listen to. Studio monitor refers to a medium that can allow audio to travel through. For example, headphones or a pair of speakers. The biggest question that arises each time is, should I use headphones or speakers?
The answer to this question depends on personal preferences. Both have their unique advantages. For example, by using headphones, you will get more the sound into more detail. For a pair of speakers, you will be able to differentiate the right from the left speakers. Also, you will feel the bass and the house acoustics deeply.
However, both of them have their disadvantages as well. For example, if you live with your parents at home, using speaker monitors will be hard. Even living in an apartment might need some soundproofing, which is costly. Some headphones, such as beats by Dr. Dre, may produce flat or manipulated sound.
As a beginner, you should invest in a sound monitoring system. A bad one will cause you to produce sub-standard music. Electronic dance music is susceptible, so it should Ibe handled by a gear that is in good shape. Also, if your music sounds terrible on the headphone, then it will look wrong in all other places.
For more information on EDM Studio Monitoring. Read our reviews for Best Headphones for Music Production Review & Buyer’s Guide and Best Studio Monitors Review & Buyer’s Guide.
Microphone
An edm studio setup does not involve a lot of vocal recordings. It consists of manipulating samples and synthesis. However, like an EDM producer, you may be in dire need to record an orchestral or a band. Sometimes you can also register some authentic weird sounds to use as samples.
A microphone can open many doors for EDM creativity. Some famous producers have gone as far as recording sounds of pans in the kitchen. As a beginner, you can choose to buy one or go without it. It is not a must-have, too, but it can be used to spun creativity.
For more information on Microphones. Read our reviews for Best All Purpose Microphone for Recording Review & Buyer’s Guide.
Audio Interfaces
An audio interface is a handy tool when it comes to a home edm studio setup. It allows the producer to record audio into the DAW. Furthermore, it helps in connecting the studio monitors to your computer. It acts as a hub that can add almost any gear to your setup.
I recommend investing in an excellent audio interface. It will give you extra inputs/outputs that will allow the integration of new gears. As a beginner, you may not have many devices, but you probably add some more in the future. With an audio interface, you will be able to integrate the accessories that you buy for your EDM setup.
For more information on Audio Interfaces. Read our reviews for Best Budget Audio Interface Review & Buyer’s Guide.
MIDI Keyboards/Controllers
Akai Pro LPK25 is a small MIDI keyboard with fewer features, and it costs around $55. The manual is a good starting point, thus attach to DAW with simple set up and is also portable. Second, if you need more features, Akai Pro MPK Mini MKII 25- Key is a great choice that costs $99.
With the low price, Akai can suit eight sensitive velocity drum pads together. Additionally, mini keyboards are good, although not playable like maxi keyboards.
If you have experience in playing the piano, go for M-Audio Key station 49 Keyboard Controller. The keyboard has enough keys to play with all hands and also large keys along with small models.
Novation MK2 Launchpad Mini is useful for a person that wants a deep accomplishment in EDM. It gives live performances that you can see from various artists like Shawn Wasabi.
Lastly, there is an Akai Professional MPD218 keyboard that costs around $99. It is the best option which can play drums without whistles and bells. Furthermore, the drum pad controller is from well-known companies in the industry.
For more information on MIDI Keyboards/Controllers. Read our reviews for Best Keyboard Controller Review & Buyer’s Guides and Best Budget Compact Midi Keyboard Controllers.
Beat pads
Beat pads are not a must-have the tool but just an additional package. They are very popular, and some of the most successful EDM producers use them. However, other producers prefer not to use them because they don’t fit in their workflow.
As a beginner, you don’t need to buy one. However, you can invest in one to add in some creativity. EDM production involves a lot of technical drum patterns. If you don’t have extra to invest in a drum pad, then you can use MIDI controllers to program the same tones.
External HDD
Lately, the prices of external hard drives have fallen. You can easily buy a 4TB costing around $100 from the various store. External storage can be an excellent resource for producers. As a beginner, you can use it to back up your software and some recording.
A $100 hard drive is more than four times your normal P.C. or Mac storage. Carrying an external HDD all the time can be inconvenient for you. You can use Velcro to attach it to your laptop. Also, you can go for cloud storage instead of online backup.

Choosing a Room for your Edm Studio Setup
Establishing a edm studio setup can be tricky, but easy following the right steps. The amplification of a place has more results on the quality sound of your production.
First, speakers and monitors have a positive impact. This depends on the type of room and the amount of space they restrain. Large speakers and monitors are pointless when putting in a place with less space and vice versa. Additionally, a beginner needs to use reference tracks for a room discovery.
The most important thing is to understand the imperfections of a room. So, turn reference in the mixing process by assessing the mix and pull frequencies to adapt. Furthermore, you need to be away from walls reflections affecting quality music production.
Sound waves from first signals change the direction of motion by hitting walls. That impact sounds quality; it is advisable to move the source of sound away from walls to lessen the issue.
It is vital to know that reflections are generated by speakers, especially when they are behind reflective surfaces. Above all, the edm studio setup should be away from the rear wall and put in the middle of the room.
Practical Tips for a Professional Soundtrack
You need to keep away from parallel lines and bedrooms that are cubes in shape. They tend to give the worst amplification. Moreover, inquire from a physicist to provide you with ways to reflect sounds on corners. The waves pass through reflective holes and magnify resonant frequencies.
Sound can be made quality by putting absorptions in the room. For this reason, the returns for investments will be excellent. Heavy and cushioned materials can take in bass frequencies. If you are making EDM studio in a bedroom, a sponge mattress is an advantage. Because low-end frequencies will absorb and vibrate in less space.
Other materials, such as the heavy dark curtains, assist in preventing reflection. It is made of windows. You also need to cover windows, including panels that are likely to reflect light. Besides, a fancy bookshelf that has different materials and sizes make modified textures. Reading books is also helpful for you and your musical journey.

How to Arrange your Gears
First, it is not only a good idea to isolate monitors from walls, but also you need to set apart speakers. The solution for this is to use speaker stands to avoid placing them on desks.
If your space is limit to use speaker stands, the desktop pads are the best options. They are different shapes and sizes; hence, they are able to tilt to track angle. Besides, if your desk is large, you will probably prefer to sit in a high position.
Desktop stands are the best choice to meet these personal needs. The positions range from various sizes and have excellent isolation and custom incline. Wardrobes absorb reflection effectively, and they are useful when recording vocals.
Acoustic Treatment
Acoustic treatment is an essential thing in a beginner’s home edm studio setup. I recommend setting up the acoustics before buying studio monitors. You don’t have to spend to make your room have a professional touch.
Room challenges that need acoustic treatment are few. For example, mid-range reflections and hard surfaces high frequencies. If you are monitoring the headphones, then you don’t need any acoustic treatment.
Bad acoustic treatment in your room can mess with the quality of your songs. As a newbie, you can start with basic things. For example, you can set up some plants to acts as a bass trap.
Also, you can hang some organic materials on the walls to absorb sound. There are many cheap ways to set up an acoustic treatment. But you should note that too much acoustic can make your room sound dead
Q and A
What is the EDM genre?
It is also known as club music, dance music, or dance. EDM falls under the broader category, which is electronic dance music. The primary audience is festivals, nightclubs, and raves, mostly.
It is mainly produced by disc jockeys for playback to create a seamless selection of tracks. EDM producers and D.J.s can perform live in festivals and concerts.
Is Buying FL Studio worth it?
Yes, if you have the right plugins, F.L. Studio can be very resourceful. Massive and Serum plugins make this software amazing. Furthermore, FL Studio is easy to use, and it has many effects. In my opinion, it’s worth buying, but you can use the trial version to decide.
How do you build a studio?
To build a studio, you need to choose a location first. Next, you need to seal all the cracks present in the room. It helps to minimize unpleasant effects. After sealing cracks, you should now ventilate and cover the room
You want to stay in a studio where you can easily breathe. Another critical step is to elevate the floors. It helps to reduce distracting vibrations. Lastly, you need to pick your recording software and gears.
What software do EDM artists use?
Ableton live one of the simplest DAW to use. It is available for Windows and Mac OS. Thanks to its Clip view, you can also use it for a live performance.
For many years Apple’s logic has been known for its reliable performance. It is easy to use the software as well. However, it’s only available for Mac OS users only.
How do EDM artists make money?
The best earning EDM artists make money by making tours and live appearances. Others make money by selling music that they produce. You can land a gig from an entity or label to make music for them.
Alternatively, you can make money outside the songwriting and music production. For example, most D.J.s sell merchandise with your stickers and brand logos. Other ways to make money are licensing business ventures and running record labels.
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Final Thoughts
A successful beginner’s home studio EDM setup mainly depends on the gear that you pick. An EDM studio does not require a lot of fancy stuff. However, you need to invest in a good DAW because EDM is all about sample manipulation. There are many types to pick from, even if you are on a budget. You can decide to choose a free or trial version then upgrade later. A simple DAW such as Reaper costs for around $60, which is a reasonable price. Of course, you should have a computer to run the software.
Some software such as logic only run on one type of O.S., but others run on both. Also, acoustic treatment is vital for speaker monitor users. But, if you decide to use headphones, go for the quality types that produce natural sound. If your production sounds bad on headphones, it will sound the same on other platforms. Other gears such as beat pads and microphones are not necessary for EDM but can boost creativity. Finally, having secondary storage is essential for your recording’s back up.
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About the Author
Michael-B is a Music Producer, Musician, and Formally Trained (and was Certified by the Recording Institute of Detroit in 1986) Recording Engineer. As of to date, He's built 3 home recording studios go back to 1987, where he wrote, played all the instruments, and recorded his music. Michael B is also a Writer, Chief Editor and SEO of TrackinSolo.com