31 Essential Music Production Tips: For Beginner and Intermediate

Are you passionate about music production but find yourself stuck in the beginner’s loop? With an ocean of information out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure about where to focus your efforts.
I am Maher and I am here to help. I will distill my 10 years of experience into 31 tips for music production that will serve as a guide with practical, easy-to-implement tips that will transform your approach to music production.
Along each step, I will point you toward more info so you can go deeper into the area where you feel the most need.
TL;DR: Key takeaways
- Beginner Basics: Dive into music production with advice on active listening, the importance of learning musical instruments, choosing the right DAW, understanding frequency ranges, and the basics of music theory.
- Essential Gear and Tools: Equip yourself with fundamental tools like audio interfaces, MIDI controllers, and learn about indispensable plugins like compression, delay, and reverb.
- Effective Workflow: Develop a streamlined workflow, understand the critical role of backing up projects, utilize reference tracks for quality enhancement, and learn strategies to avoid ear fatigue.
- Advanced Techniques for Intermediates: Elevate your skills with insights into using synths, mastering nuances, setting up a home studio for professional output, and the art of sampling.
- Practical Tips and FAQs: Get practical advice on finishing songs, seeking feedback for improvement, and addressing common questions about music production as a career, self-teaching, the necessity of expensive equipment, and the role of music theory in fostering creativity.
This comprehensive guide, drawing from 10 years of experience, offers an insightful journey from basic to advanced music production, catering to both beginners and intermediates.
Part 1: Starting as a Beginner in Music Production
According to Statista, the music industry grew from $4.61 Billion in revenue in 2009 to a whopping $10.3 Billion in 2022. No wonder thousands of musicians and singers get excited to learn music production every year. But it is not easy. You may be one of those people, and you’ve come to the right place.
As a new producer, embarking on this journey can be as thrilling as it is challenging. Ten years ago, I found myself at the starting line of this very adventure.
Back then, tips like this were like hidden treasures, hard to come by but invaluable when discovered.

I want to share with you that this journey is one to be relished, not feared. It’s a path filled with creative exploration, personal growth, and endless possibilities.
So, as we dive into the foundation of music production, remember that it’s not just about mastering techniques, but also about enjoying the ride and celebrating each small victory along the way. So here it goes.
Music Production Tips For New Producers
1. Listen, Listen, Listen!
That is the best advice I could start with. Don’t just hear music. Listen, listen, listen. The best way to get better at making music is to fill your ears with music.
Music is not background noise.
Listen to the details of each instrument, effect, and chord. The more you listen, the more ideas you will get. Get yourself a pair of decent headphones that bring up the details. If you want to make music, you have to be a good listener of music.
2. Why Learning a Musical Instrument Can Boost Your Production Skills
You’ll probably find a sea of tutorials and music courses designed to teach production skills. However, an often-overlooked aspect is how learning a musical instrument can significantly boost your abilities.
Nowadays, it’s not an absolute necessity, but it certainly adds immense value. Think of it as gaining a new language to express your musical ideas more fluently.
During your learning journey, you’re primarily focusing on the technical side. But picking up an instrument adds depth to your understanding of melody, rhythm, and harmony, enriching your production with a more intuitive sense of music creation.
3. Selecting the Right DAW for Your Music Style
Selecting the right DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) is a pivotal decision that can shape the way you produce music. Each DAW has its unique flair and capabilities, often making them more suitable for certain styles of music.

For instance, Ableton Live is celebrated for electronic and live performance-oriented tracks.
Logic Pro, with its rich library and intuitive interface, is a favorite among pop and indie producers.
FL Studio shines in hip-hop and EDM production (electronic music), while Pro Tools is the go-to for many professionals in recording and editing live instruments.
And let’s not forget Cubase, my very first DAW by the way, a powerhouse for composers and orchestral arrangers.
However, remember that these are just tools. In the end, it’s not the DAW that makes the music; it’s you, the producer. The best DAW is the one that you feel most comfortable and creative with, aligning with your workflow and style of music.
If you need more info on different DAWs, check out my course, 10 Day Singer-Producer. We have a full Video Module comparing DAWs. The course then dives deep into both Ableton and Logic Pro.
4. Understanding Frequency Ranges in Sound Design
Understanding frequency ranges is a game changer, especially when it comes to mixing and mastering. It’s like knowing exactly where each piece of the puzzle fits.
For instance, the bass sound, fundamental in most music genres, typically occupies the lower range, requiring careful attention to avoid muddiness in your mix.
High frequencies need clarity to sparkle, while the mids carry the body of most sounds, and lows need to be tight and defined. Recognizing how different frequencies interact is non-negotiable.

The hardest part for me, as I was starting out, was understanding mid-range frequencies and how they affect sound. The best way is to experiment with toggles and you’ll get an idea about what does what.
Back in the analog mixer days, we had to pick out one specific frequency in the mid-range and that was the only one we could control. Of course, today things are so much easier with digital mixers.
By learning this aspect of sound design, you ensure that each element in your track finds its rightful place, resulting in a balanced and harmonious mix that truly resonates with your listeners.
5. Basic Music Theory: A Key to Better Production
The mere mention of music theory often sends a shiver down the spine of many budding producers, conjuring images of complex charts and inscrutable terms. But here’s the truth: you don’t need to rely too much on advanced concepts to improve your music.
Understanding the basics can be a game-changer for your production skills. It’s about grasping simple ideas like scales, chords, and rhythm patterns, which can massively elevate your ability to compose and arrange tracks.
Think of it as a toolkit that helps you make informed decisions, rather than shooting in the dark. Learning these fundamentals isn’t just about following rules; it’s about unlocking a new level of creativity in your music production journey.
Getting The Essential Tools
When setting up your home recording studio, it’s easy to get caught in the allure of high-end equipment, thinking it’s the key to professional-quality sound.
We sometimes get stuck for weeks and months watching reviews of gear or software to buy. This, my friend, is procrastination in disguise. You need to pick something and start.
Start with the essentials: a reliable computer, a quality audio interface, a decent microphone, and a pair of accurate studio monitors. These are the pillars of any effective home studio.
You don’t need to break the bank; there are fantastic, budget-friendly options that can yield great results. With time, you will get better at understanding your needs and making smart investments that align with your goals.
6. Basic Gear That You Need
First and foremost, a quality audio interface is foundational; think of it as the bridge between your instruments and your computer.
Next, a pair of accurate stereo monitors is key for mixing and ensuring your tracks sound great on any system. Don’t forget a good microphone if you plan to record vocals or instruments.

Lastly, invest in a versatile DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), which will be your primary production tool. These basics set the foundation for your home studio, ensuring you have everything you need to create, mix, and master your music effectively.
7. Get Familiar With MIDI Controllers
When you’re eager to create something unique in your DAW, working with MIDI controllers is a game-changer for beginners.
These controllers, like the affordable Akai MPK Mini or Novation Launchkey Mini, offer a hands-on experience in crafting your music. They come with keys, pads, and knobs, providing tactile control over virtual instruments and your DAW.

However, it’s important to remember that, fundamentally, most MIDI controllers serve the same purpose. The difference lies in how you use them to bring your musical ideas to life. They are tools meant to enhance your workflow and creativity, not define them.
8. Essential Presets and Plugins for New Music Producers
For new music producers, understanding and utilizing essential presets and plugins is crucial.
Compression, a must-have effect, helps in balancing the dynamic range of your track, ensuring consistent volume throughout.
Delay adds depth and space, creating an echo effect that can range from subtle to dramatic.
Reverb, on the other hand, provides a sense of environment, from tight, small rooms to vast, open spaces.
These tools, when used thoughtfully, can dramatically enhance the quality and character of your music, giving your productions a more polished and professional sound.
9. Understand The Role of EQ Plugins
Understanding the role of EQ (equalization) plugins is important for creating a clean and balanced mix. EQ allows you to adjust the frequency content of your audio, helping to highlight or diminish specific elements.
For example, you might use EQ to brighten up your vocals or to reduce the muddiness in your bass. It’s all about finding the right balance and ensuring each part of your track sits well together.
A good EQ plugin can be the difference between a flat, lifeless mix and one that’s dynamic and engaging. Remember, EQ is a tool for subtle changes – it’s about enhancing, not overpowering your music. Trust me; this one is a lifesaver.
10. Invest in a Good VST library
Do yourself a favor and invest in a good VST (Virtual Studio Technology) library is crucial. VSTs are plugins that add additional sounds and effects to your digital audio workstation (DAW).
It’s basically like having a full-on band at your disposal, even an orchestra if you like that. At the beginning of my career, I made the mistake of splurging on a fancy keyboard.
Later, I realized that VSTs are a much better investment. You’re not stuck with the same samples that come with the keyboard.
Budget-friendly yet high-quality VSTs include options like Spitfire LABS, known for its unique and high-quality sounds, or the versatile Native Instruments Komplete Start. There’s also Dexed, a free FM synthesizer perfect for electronic genres.
Start building your VST library; it’s an investment that will pay off in the diversity and quality of your music.
I got that tip from Nathan Larsen, an awesome producer. Watch his YouTube video where he gives his own tips for music production.
11. Get Proficient What You Have First
Resist the temptation to solve your hurdles by buying new gear. New gear won’t make you a better producer.
Before splurging on new gear, focus on learning what you already have.
Understanding the full potential of your current tools can dramatically improve your skills . This approach not only saves money but also deepens your skillset, ensuring you make the most out of every tool at your disposal.
Setting Up Your Workspace
12. Create an Effective Workflow
Start by organizing your DAW workspace – keep your most used tools and plugins easily accessible. Develop a habit of labeling and color-coding your tracks for easy navigation. And yes, name your tracks! Takes a tad more time, but will save much more down the road.

Also, consider templating: setting up a default project with pre-loaded instruments and effects can save time and streamline your production process.
In my experience, I didn’t care much about this level of organization in the beginning; I just wanted to start and get the ball rolling. If you are still starting out, it’s ok to be a little messy for the sake of productivity. But with time, you should get progressively more organized and streamlined.
13. Learn your DAW’s shortcuts
Memorizing your DAW’s shortcuts is a game-changer in streamlining your process. These quick key commands significantly reduce your editing time, making your workflow much more efficient. Spend some time memorizing these shortcuts; it’s an investment that pays off by making your production sessions smoother and more intuitive.
14. The Importance of Backing Up Your Projects
Yea yea yea… back up! An aspect often overlooked by many new producers. But, it’s super important to get in the habit of regularly saving your work in multiple locations.
Think of it as an insurance policy for your music. Whether it’s an external hard drive, a cloud service, or both, having backups ensures that your hard-earned progress isn’t lost due to unforeseen computer crashes or data corruption.
Regular backups not only protect your projects but also provide peace of mind, allowing you to focus fully on the creative process without the nagging worry of losing your work.
15. Back up, Back up, Back up!
I know you skipped the last point, so I’m backing it up!
16. Utilizing Reference Tracks to Enhance Production
You can find sessions and projects for songs you know easily on the internet. Utilizing reference tracks is a technique that can significantly elevate your production quality and accelerate your music career.
By comparing your work to professionally produced tracks, you gain valuable insights into how well your mix stands up in terms of balance, frequency response, and overall sound. It’s not about copying, but rather learning and understanding the standards of professional production.
Listen to how the pros handle things like EQ, compression, and stereo imaging. Integrating these insights into your work can help bridge the gap between amateur and professional production, refining your sound with each project you undertake.
17. Preventing Ear Fatigue During Production and Mixing
Preventing ear fatigue is a critical aspect of the production and mixing process for every music producer. Spending long hours with headphones on or in front of studio monitors at high volumes can quickly lead to tired ears, making it difficult to make accurate mix decisions.

To combat this, take regular breaks to rest your ears, ideally every hour. Also, keep the volume at a moderate level; if you have to raise your voice to talk over the music, it’s probably too loud.
Employing these practices not only protects your hearing but also ensures that your ears stay fresh, helping you make better mixing choices and ultimately enhancing the quality of your music.
18. Experimentation is Key
If you want to learn and continuously bring fresh ideas, don’t be afraid to experiment. Experimentation is the heart and soul of creativity in this field.
Try blending genres, playing with unconventional sound textures, or even breaking some ‘rules’ of traditional mixing.
It’s through this process of trial and error that you discover your unique sound and style. Whether it’s tweaking a synth to create a never-before-heard texture or mixing rhythms in a novel way, each experiment enriches your skill set.
Embrace the unexpected and let your curiosity lead the way; you never know what amazing sounds you might uncover.
Part 2: From Beginner to Intermediate
Transitioning to an intermediate level in the music industry is a journey filled with learning and growth. This phase is where you start applying tried-and-tested techniques while also developing your unique style.
It’s about taking the foundational skills you’ve mastered and pushing the boundaries further. You’ll delve deeper into the complexities of sound design, mixing, and even music theory. The challenges you face at this stage are more intricate, but they’re also more rewarding.
As you grow, you’ll find yourself more in tune with the nuances of production, making decisions with greater confidence and skill.
This part of your music production journey is not just about refining your technical abilities, but also about finding your voice in the vast world of music, setting the stage for you to make a mark in the industry.
Upgrade and Get Better With These Tips For Music Production
19. Enroll Yourself in a Good Course
In the sea of options available today, enrolling in a good course can significantly boost your skills. For beginners, a foundational course covering the basics is invaluable, laying the groundwork for all future learning.
As you transition to an intermediate level, however, your focus should shift to more specialized courses. Look for programs that target specific areas you want to develop, whether that’s advanced mixing techniques, sound design, or even a particular genre of music you want to make.
The right course can provide structured learning, expert insights, and practical skills, all tailored to your current level and future goals. This targeted approach ensures your time and resources are invested in the most beneficial way to learn music production.
Please allow a shameless plug… I’m very happy to announce the pre-launch of my first course 10 Day Singer-Producer. It’s unique music production course directed to people who don’t play instruments. Of course, if you do play an instrument, you’ll get even more benefit from the course. You can watch the free masterclass to know what its all about.

20. Building a Basic Home Studio for Professional Output
When I deeply knew that this was my true passion, I felt ready to build my home studio. Building a basic home studio for professional output doesn’t require a fortune; it’s about making smart choices.

We’ve spoken about your essential gear before, but now you need to think of your environment not just your equipment. Don’t overlook the importance of room acoustics – simple treatments like acoustic foam can greatly improve sound quality.
With these core components, you can create a space that’s not only functional but also conducive to producing high-quality music. This setup ensures you have the tools to translate your musical ideas into professional-sounding tracks, right from the comfort of your home.
21. Synths: A Door to Becoming a Better Producer
In the landscape of modern music, synths stand as must-have tools, and learning how to use both analog and digital variants is essential.
Analog synths, known for their warm, rich tones, work through physical circuits and voltage, offering a hands-on, organic experience.

Digital synths, the more affordable option, use computer algorithms to create a wider range of sounds, from realistic instrument emulations to futuristic effects.
Each type brings its unique flavor to your music, and understanding their differences is key in selecting the right synth for the desired sound in your productions. Familiarizing yourself with both can greatly enhance your sound palette, giving you more creative freedom in your musical explorations.
22. Save time, Use Loops
In today’s fast-paced world, using loops can be a real time-saver, especially when you’re juggling multiple projects or tight deadlines.
Loops provide a quick way to lay down a solid foundation for a track, whether it’s a catchy drum beat, a rhythmic bassline, or a melodic pattern.
They can spark inspiration or fill in gaps in your composition, adding layers and complexity with minimal effort. Remember, the key is to use them creatively – tweak, layer, and modify these loops to make them your own. This approach not only saves time but also keeps your workflow smooth and efficient, allowing you to focus on the creative aspects of your music production.
23. Fiddle With Sampling
Sampling opens up a world of creative possibilities, allowing you to infuse unique textures and sounds into your tracks. Sampling is not just about using snippets of existing audio; it’s an art form where you can transform and repurpose sounds to create something entirely new.
Dive into old records for hidden gems, capture the sounds of the world around you, or even manipulate everyday noises into intriguing musical elements.
The key is to experiment and explore how these samples can interact with your music, adding depth, character, and a distinctive flair. Embracing sampling can lead to unexpected and exciting musical discoveries, setting your work apart in the vibrant tapestry of modern music.
24. Less is More: Making Your Music Sound More Professional
The more I progressed into my music production career, the fewer tracks I had on my DAW session. That is probably a universal experience with all music producers I know.
It’s also about making strategic decisions in your production process, like choosing the right sounds and understanding the nuances of advanced mixing techniques.
Professional-sounding music isn’t just about what you add, but also about what you choose to leave out. Strive for clarity, balance, and a polished finish that stands out in the vast sea of music out there
25. Beware Of Stacking Big Phat Presets
In audio production, beware of stacking big, phat presets. While they might sound impressive solo, they can overwhelm your mix when combined.
It’s crucial to balance these powerful sounds, ensuring they complement rather than compete, to achieve a clear, professional-quality mix that lets each element shine.
Moreover, overdoing it with presets and plugins could potentially weigh your CPU down causing problems like MIDI latency, which is pretty annoying.
26. Do Your Final Mix With 50% Volume
I honestly don’t know why this tip works. It’s just something I was taught by my mentor, and it really works. After a good break, get a good pair of headphones and listen to your mix with the volume turned down to 50%. You’ll hear things in a way you didn’t hear before.
27. Master Mastering
Mastering is often considered the final, crucial step in the music production process, a skill that can make or break your project.
It’s not about slapping on fancy effects or presets; mastering is the art of fine-tuning your track to sound better across various listening environments. It is mainly subtle adjustments in leveling, ensuring each element of your mix sits perfectly in the overall soundscape.
Mastering demands a keen ear and a deep understanding of how different frequencies and dynamics interact.
When done right, it polishes your music, giving it the professional sheen that separates amateur productions from studio-quality work. This skill, while intricate, is invaluable in elevating the impact and clarity of your music.
28. Finish your songs
We’ve all been there. You get excited about an idea. You can hear it in your head. You start working, but as it goes on, you’re losing that vision. You’re feeling stuck. You chuck it out and start all over again.

My friend, resist this urge. Yes, a lot of times the final product will be very different from what we initially envisioned. But here is the key, there is A FINAL PRODUCT. No matter how you feel about it, the most important thing about the whole buidling-your-music-production-skills process is VOLUME (not sound volume, but production volume). Real music is not on your DAW, it is on a track somewhere on Spotify (regardless of the number of streams).
The more you cross that finish line, the more ready you’ll be. Think about it, if you always stop in the middle, then you’ll never learn mixing or mastering.
Getting the skills down is more important than the quality of the final product. Quality will come with practice. No better way to practice than to finish.
29. Getting Feedback: Why It’s Crucial for Improvement
Getting feedback on your music is an invaluable step in the production process. It offers fresh perspectives and insights that you, as the creator, might miss.
When others listen to your music, they can pinpoint areas that need refinement, whether it’s a mix issue, a rhythmic inconsistency, or even just a suggestion on arrangement. This external input is crucial for improvement, pushing you to consider aspects of your work you hadn’t noticed before. Embrace constructive criticism and use it as a tool to hone your skills.
Remember, music is not just about your ears and ideas; it’s about how it resonates with listeners. Open yourself to feedback, and watch as it transforms your music production journey.
30. Optimize Your Software-Hardware Connections
The more you add equipment, the more processing power you will need. And while most home producers will start with their laptops, eventually, an upgrade might be inevitable.
Here is my rule of thumb: If you want to make a living from music production, do not purchase new equipment unless you earn money from your music production to pay 50% of its cost.
Of course, this is not set in stone and people might have different philosophies in how they mange their investment. I just put this for myself as a barrier for impulsive purchases.
One thing that could postpone purchasing is software optimization. This happened early on when I first experienced MIDI latency. My natural inclination was to upgrade my equipment.

Luckily, with a few software adjustments to my buffer size and sample rate, I was able to virtually eliminate any noticeable delay. Check out this blog post to learn how to do it yourself.
31. Bite The AI Bullet
This was a difficult one for me. AI is everywhere, we cannot deny that. A lot of artists and creatives are dreading the fact the now AI is going to deem them dispensable. My take on this is that AI is never going to replace creatives, but the competition will progressively favor those who have taken time to learn and use AI tools.

Yea, it’s too easy and makes our work seem less valuable. But that is the world we live in. We need to make AI our friend, not our foe. So, I think it’s a good idea to experiment with a couple of free accounts from the best AI music generators. If you like one of them, it could prove to be a useful tool to produce royalty-free music quickly for mass production.
I tried Suno AI, a new AI song generator on the web. My experience was not that negative. I think this will actually benefit my clients who have ideas that are not quite materialized. Saves me a bit of the headache of trying to decipher what they want. Check out my Suno AI Review.
Summary and Final Thoughts
Like learning any other skill, music production requires time, effort, and perseverance. And like every other worthwhile thing in life, true freedom and flow come after passing over the cusp of a high tedious mountain of learning.
Don’t get intimidated, get excited! And again, my recommendation is to just start. Start imperfectly and wobbly, but that is way more progress than wasting time thinking about gear or how much you need to learn. The best way to learn is to start. So just start. What are you waiting for?
FAQs
Is A Career In Music Production Any Good?
Music production can be a rewarding career for those passionate about creating music and willing to embrace its challenges. It offers opportunities for creative expression, technical growth, and collaboration. Success in this field depends on skill, perseverance, and adaptability in an ever-evolving industry.
Can Music Production Be Self-Taught?
Certainly, music production can be self-taught using online resources, tutorials, and forums. Success in this field hinges on dedication, experimentation, and self-directed learning. While formal education offers structure, self-teaching allows for flexible, personalized exploration. Ultimately, your drive and creativity are the key factors in your growth as a producer.
Do You Need Expensive Equipment to Produce Music?
No, you don’t need expensive equipment to produce music. Today’s technology offers affordable options that are more than capable of producing professional-quality sound. A basic setup with a good computer, a decent audio interface, and a pair of headphones can get you started. It’s your skill and creativity that truly make the difference in your music, not the price tag of your equipment.
Does Music Theory Restrict Creativity?
Contrary to popular belief, music theory does not restrict creativity; it enhances it. Understanding theory provides a framework to explore and express musical ideas more effectively. It’s a tool that opens up new possibilities, rather than confining your creativity. Knowing the rules gives you the power to break them with innovation.