Do you have a desire to create your own music, particularly in the beat driven genres like techno, dance, hip hop and rap? Beat making software is the key to that dream, since it provides an affordable way for the average guy or girl to jump right into the world of making beats and music.

Beat making production is similar to other music making methods, in that beyond the technical know how, creating great songs comes down to a mix of luck and talent. However, most producers say that the most important aspect of the production process is the interaction between producer and beat making software, so choosing the right one is crucial to your development further down the line.

{Here is a review of what “I” think is one of the top affordable beat making software programs}

You want to build a strong, lasting relationship and understanding of the software that will survive the onslaught of time and long nights spent fine tuning songs. As you will be spending hours in front of a computer, software needs to inspire you yet make the whole process flow, be trouble free and enjoyable. This can boil down to the need for a clean interface that is intuitive and allows you to have all the options you can possibly want.

Making an informed choice for your music studio software is important. Take the time to test trial versions and search online for opinions on products that attract you. My opinion is only that…an opinion.  Seeking help from an experienced producer is always advisable as they can give you advice on the best software for the specific type of music you are trying to make.

What all beat making software programs need to contain:

 Sequencer – The sequencer is nifty tool that allows you to visualise a song in a sequential fashion, as the name suggests. Through a time line that follows the structure of a song you are able to insert and modify drum hits throughout, through generally producers prefer to use sequencers to create loops that are then imported into the main layout of a digital work station. Sequencers are the way you will communicate your ideas to the computer so selecting one that works for you is of prime importance.

With a sequencer you are looking for comfort and manoeuvrability. Countless horror stories litter the web telling of frustration with finicky buttons, or choppy scrolling. Try out a few to see what works on your system and primarily to see if you feel comfortable using them.

Sounds and Samples – Beat Making Software comes loaded with a variety of sounds that you can use in your beats. Some models emulate classic hardware drum machines from the past with some surprising and gratifying results. In the past few years, some house and techno producers have revived old machines and infused them with a contemporary twist to create an innovative sound.

Watch out for software that offers limited banks or no ability to import foreign sounds from your computer. Professional level software offer purchase only access to large amounts of hits and release future versions for free as long as a past version has been purchased previously. A one time investment will pay itself off in no time.

MIDI – MIDI is the language through which the program transcribes your ideas into music. It allows you to choose a drum hit, select to have it play at a specific point for a specific period of time, then see that choice transformed into an audible sound. MIDI is the cornerstone of modern production and has heralded a revolution in the way we use computers to make music.

Old beat machine software or new products lacking a comprehensive package sometimes come installed without any MIDI functionality. You end up having to export sound files, such as a wav, before you can insert beats into your production software. This limits your ability to modify beats throughout the creation of a song without a lengthy ordeal of exporting loops. Ensure that your purchase has full and tested MIDI as part of its functions.

Education - Taking a course or class devoted to a specific program will do wonders for your tracks as mingling and learning from professional producers is the best way to expand on your knowledge and skills. But most decent beat making programs will also give you some tutorials and training bundles with the program.  They teach the ins and outs of the program whilst letting you know bad habits to avoid, cheap tricks that will do your productions no good, and can offer advice on career choices.

For education, never forget to think about YouTube. YouTube will often have heaps of videos showing you how to make your original beats using the programs of your choice. If you do a search for beat making XXXX (the program) and come up with no links showing advanced and basic tips on using the software, there is a chance it is not very high quality.

Professionals were once where you are now and can relate to what you are going through. Intelligently, a course’s pace and depth is adapted to your learning curve, and locks into what will help you the most at a specific point in time.

Most of all try to keep the process an educational beat making software; but don’t hesitate to try out dozens of programs before settling on one. Here’s one to get you started: Beat making for Beginners Review.

**Photo courtesy of Sudhamshu

If you want to learn how to make Rap music you have come to the right place. Making Rap music and beats is not an easy thing. It is an art form; but it is an art that anyone can learn to a lesser or greater degree.

2011’s biggest rap tracks were created by young, inexperienced and unknown artists who distinguished themselves by a musical process that saw them take on all the roles traditionally invoked; producer, mixing and mastering, lyricist, and rapper. Some of the most notable are the whirlwind of excess and youthful exuberance that are Tyler the Creator and the rest of his crew, and emerging out of the woodwork are mix tape aficionados such as Aesop Rocky.

Both artists are famous for producing their own tracks and the quality of the production attest to this fact; they sound raw and authentic, lack the over-produced tint of major label chart toppers, and most of all have a self-made vibe coursing not only though the music but through the personas and attitudes taken on by these up and comers. The popularity of tracks is no longer based on production value as has been the case in recent years, but more on the quality of the music made, the lyrics and message conveyed.

The fact that these guys have taken a rather unconventional approach has given a whole generation of budding rappers the impetus to show pride in home-produced tracks full of quirks and idiosyncrasies. As this point, the question beckons, how exactly can someone make Rap music?

How underground heroes are made. –The secrets of making your own Rap music

One important factor in the rise of these underground heroes is how easy production software has become in recent years. No longer do you need have a solid background in audio engineering to create tracks; being inquisitive and motivated are more than enough.

Out of the box, beginners can load up a beat making software, a variety of instruments and synthesizers, as well as powerful sampling tools. These are all presented in simple, intuitive interfaces that are logical to use but do so without impacting on the power and quality of their functions.

Furthermore, the programs come with pre-loaded banks of instruments, samples and various sounds which negate the need to go searching for an appropriate sound or sample before the sequencing process actually begins.

Coupled with the evolution of software is the emergence of affordable MIDI keyboards. These correlate directly with the events on screen and make the creation of melody lines a breeze. As such, a first time producer is able to create unique and inspiring instrumentals within minutes of loading up a program. All of this loaded into the music studio software, making the whole process a breeze.

For these young rappers, how to make rap music, technically speaking, manifests no set method.  It will vary from person to person, as each person has their own interpretation and style, and hopefully furthers the art of making rap music.

However there is a tendency to be experimental with the use of sampling with sources ranging from TV shows to self-made playful vocal interludes.

In terms of software, rumours have emerged that many modern rappers are resorting to free or pre-loaded programs such as GarageBand or online beat making software programs such as DubTurbo (for a review of Dub Turbo check out: This Dubturbo Review).

 What do you need to jump into making your own Rap music?

A simple MIDI keyboard (usually included in decent beat making software) is often cited as the only hardware used in productions to make rap music; beyond the use of microphones for recording vocals. They are versatile pieces of kits that remain affordable and reliable. The M-Audio Oxygen is one of the most sought after lower end keyboards, renowned for its durability and robustness. Internal to the program, or external a MIDI keyboard is going to be an aspiring Rapper’s close friend.

Part of the success of these young and irreverent rappers is the nature of their lyrics which resonate because of their relevance and honesty. Spitting rhymes about over-priced hummers and promiscuous exploits has been replaced with truthful portrayals of these young men’s lives. Songs about substance cocktails turned bad, about the pains of growing up in twenty first century western society ring true to many across the world.

In addition to the music, many artists have used other media such as video and the web as vehicles to further their message. Innumerable self-made documentaries or story-based videos are easily accessible to listeners and broaden the amount of information they can access, as such creating a more immersive experience than simply popping a CD into a Hi-Fi as was the case in the past.

In this age of economic downturn, corporate corruption and uncertain futures, there is a demand for authenticity that contemporary rappers have latched onto. No longer do people simply want to escape their own lives through music, they now wish to identify and engage with issues. So why not bring your own unique style and POV into play and make Rap music of your own.

Photo Courtesy of Photosteve

What will you need to Produce Hip Hop Beats?

Three basic pieces of equipment are needed to produce hip hop beats, however depending on the techniques invoked, further pieces of kit may be needed, but we will come to that later on.

Computer/Laptop: portal to producing Hip Hop Beats

Unless you are planning to remain authentic and enlist the services of a hardware sampler or drum machine, you will most probably want to start making beats on a computer. The great thing about contemporary production is that most home computers now have the specs and processing power to handle audio production and making your own beats, so investing in a state of the art system is no longer a necessity. Fundamentally, your family PC is all you need.

Should you lack the requirements of certain programs, there is the possibility to buy and download older versions of the most popular software. Most big studios provide reasonably priced back dated versions via their site or through sites such as Amazon. Though, a past version may lack the functionality of newer incarnations, they essentially provide the same possibilities for production.

It is a known fact that many producers the world over actually prefer older versions of their favourite software for reasons such as the quality of audio engines which have lost warmth or character with updated versions.

Monitors: Window to your Hip Hop Beat Production

Monitors are a tough nut to crack because they require a sizeable investment and as such may not be ideally suited to people just starting out in the production game. There are many stories of eager beginners buying thousand dollar set ups only to realise that their interest was only fleeting, and consequently having to deal with a non negligible chunk out of their finances for something they don’t actually enjoy.

Traditional computer speakers or hi-fis are a safe place to start. They provide fairly decent frequency response and are a fraction of the price of studio monitors. For novices who haven’t quite come to grasp with the subtleties of mixing, they provide an ideal sandbox for them to explore and experiment before committing whole heartedly to producing.

Digital Audio Workstation: The key to hip hop beat production

Now, you’ve got your computer and your speaker set up, its time to look at choosing the music studio software necessary to produce Hip Hop beats. The first thing that might strike you is the sheer amount of programs on offer, from standalone software to online based production stations; it can be a real headache navigating this sea of options.

A good place to start is trial and demo versions of the most popular programs; Logic Pro, Ableton Live, ProTools, Reason, Cubase. They offer all the necessary tools for the production process – sequencer, effects, VST compatibility, sample packs, mixing and mastering – and because of their notoriety throughout the producer community, you will be up to date with industry standards, saving you having to learn how to use a new program to produce hip hop beats further down the line.

Other Equipment to help produce hip hop beats

A large part of the tracks emerging in the early days of Hip Hop relied solely on the use of drum machines and a technique called sampling.

 - Drum Machines: the name gives it away really. They are hardware interfaces that emulate live drummers by allowing the user to ‘tap’ out a beat. They tend to be favoured by hardcore enthusiast and are the object of many of today’s biggest Hip Hop artist’s affection. Note that they are expensive and bulky. You may prefer to look into drum machine software that is usually shipped as part of many digital audio workstations. While free beat making software is always an option, chances are it should actually not be your first option.

There are some premium options that are quite inexpensive, yet are also quite vibrant. For just a few bucks your can try out one of the very best drum beat making programs

 - Sampling: is essentially a technique which involves using pre-recorded sound to craft a brand new song. Traditionally, hip hop producers looked to mainstream genres (soul, r&b, and funk) for drum breaks, vocal lines and instrumental melodies to populate their songs. We’ve all heard of crate diggers who diligently scour the racks at record shops for that ever elusive album to borrow sounds from for their own tunes.

If the technique inspires you, buying a decent record player with some form of output that can connect to your computer is a must. Auction and second hand sites are a good place to start. Visiting a local record shop can be beneficial as it will allow you to talk with vinyl buffs who can point you down the right track.

Take stock of all these tools and requirements and you may quickly gain skill and the ability to produce your own beats.

In this age of the internet, it is now possible to make beats online via out of the box working programs that run in your web browser. The debate as to whether software or online beat making programs are better is a contentious issue that has fired up many a producer.

Regardless of the discussions plastered across so many beat making forums, how does one make the choice between the two? There’s no right or wrong answer, it all comes down to what works for you and is conducive to making the best possible music. Some of the most successful producers out there differ in their production methods and there are as many that favour online software as installed programs.

Below are a few things to consider whilst making your final decision, though this list is not exhaustive and remember that nothing quite beats trying out software for yourself.

Requirements to Make Beats online:

 Hardware: Web Connection and Browser

Operating System: Mac or PC.

Functionality: Easy, gentle, short learning curve.

Online software loads instantaneously because you avoid waiting for a program to boot up from your hard drive. There is no installation required, simply visit the assigned web address. Should the software crash it is usable immediately.

No need for updates, it works indefinitely, though they are known to crash should your internet connection fail or the site crash. As you are online, the propensity for virus infection is higher, a further risk to consider. Online software does not take up hard drive space and this is especially important if your computer is used for different purposes such as work, visual editing, or web browsing.

Online beat making software offers fewer possibilities for exporting and importing sounds, using exterior instruments and effects. In a sense this limits the functionality but can be sufficient for those satisfied with the sounds offered by the online programs.

Mac users are limited by the short supply of production programs available. If you use a Mac, online beat software will provide options beyond the limited products that run on your system, essentially expanding your palette of sounds and scope for experimentation. Though there are more and more products designed for Macs, the current portfolio is small and constraining. For one of the best beat making solutions check out this DubTurbo Review.

Beat Making Software Requirements:

 Hardware: Decent computer specs and space on hard drive.

Operating System: Always PC and rarely Mac.

Functionality: Hard, long, steep learning curve.

Software avoids fears of contracting a virus whilst using online programs. Fundamentally, they are immune to viruses so you can make beats in tranquillity. As the program runs off of your computer it is more stable and efficient. They are less likely to crash than online versions.

The best Beat Making Software offers an all inclusive solution that is reliable and stable. Time is spent making beats rather than being distracted by online ads or web pop ups. Because of this, time spent using software beat making programs is better spent. In essence, you are more productive.

Software versions allow input from other sources, consequently allowing you to use external microphones and instruments for your productions. You are not limited to onboard sounds and instruments which can stunt your musical ideas. This capacity for customization isn’t simply limited to audio output; it is possible to tweak parameters so that the visual display suits your needs and goals.

They allow the use of external sounds, virtual instruments and MIDI. They offer a compatibility with all the industry standard music making interfaces, so you’ll never be out of the loop when it comes to the latest products and effects. Basically they are flexible and do not stunt or limit your musical output with limited functionality.

Recording Studio Software programs are common place so access to help, guides and other knowledge is simple via a straightforward internet search. As they are more widespread, help from seasoned musicians will be easier to find and any glitch you may encounter will be fixed in no time thanks to their expertise.  Example: Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Reason.

Installed software requires devotion and hours of your time for them to truly shine. They are an expert’s tool, complex, complicated yet extremely powerful. However, once the skills are learned, the possibilities are unimaginable, only limited by your creativity and desire to push yourself and your music. With just a little bit of effort, you too can make beats online.

Photo courtesy of Mr. DK Sexyback

Do you have a desire to create your own drum machine beats? If so you have come to the right place.

 Harnessing the power of drums has been the remit of electronic music since the first analogue and digital instruments came into existence in the mid twentieth century. There has always been a desire to create a machine that synthesizes and imitates the voracity and force of drums to varied results.

However, in the later half of the century, engineers were able to create drum machines that distinguished themselves by the quality and uniqueness of their sound. No wonder many modern day beat making software drum machines directly reproduce the sound of some of the classic hardware drum machines; they are distinctive and give songs an unmistakeable quality.

 How are Drum Machine Beats Made?

Before you begin create your own beats it is important to understand exactly how a drum machine works. A normal drum machine interface will include a sequencer – a beat per beat timeline of a drum loop -, a number of inbuilt sounds – generally kick, hat-hats, snare and other percussive elements such as hand claps or wood blocks -, a few effects such as reverb and delay. Creating a beat is essentially the act of combining the above elements into a cohesive whole or beat.

Most producers will begin by laying down the kick and snare of a simple drum beat, and from there experiment with percussive patterns over the top until a satisfactory result is achieved. A lot of the experience in making your own beats is characterised by trial and error; inserting a hit here and there, listening to results and modifying as needed. However, others will try to replicate drums that stem from a thought up idea or through trying to mimic a favourite artist’s vibe.

If you want to discover one of the best tools to play with and get those trial and error results in a clean and easy to use interface, a good tool to check out is the Dubturbo Beat making software.

Regardless of how a beat is created, there is substantial work left to be done before it can sound professional and it’s at this point that effects come into the picture.

Effects allow producers to fine tune elements of a beat to suit their needs. This can range from giving it a thumping quality to adding an airiness that gives it space and dimension within a song. Effects take the sounds of your drum loop and improve their characteristic to suit the needs of the atmosphere or ambience you are trying to achieve.

 The Pieces and Parts of Drum Effects (Tools to help create drum machine beats)

 Compression – a volume control that lowers the overall level of an instrument, beat, vocal or whatever when it reaches a certain threshold. The audible effect is a consistency in the sound being played. Any peaks or troughs will be evened out to create a balanced sound.

Side chaining or ducking is a compression technique whereby you can assign the drum machine to diminish the level of certain instrument when a part of the drum beat is played. Generally, this is centred on the kick and tends to give a track a bouncy feel if used on a bass track.

 Reverb – is an effect that extends the sound beyond the normal length of the drum hit. For instance should you be making moody bass music you may wish to add a rather prominent ‘tail’ to your snare hit, deepening the sound and as such adding the feel of the track.

There is a tendency to overuse reverb, so remain resourceful when considering its use. A good hint; if adding reverb does little to improve the sound of your song; it is probably worth reconsidering whether you actually need it. Used properly reverb can be key to creating your own beats, but far to many people overdo it.

 Equalizer – an effect that allows certain frequencies to be amplified or reduced depending on needs. An equalizer is used to highlight the dominant frequencies of a specific drum hit and as such great a sonic niche for it to manifest itself. In this way you can ensure that no two sounds encroach on each other, and all your hits sound are as clear and prominent as the next.

 Kick – by its low end nature, the kick usually has an equalizer setting to match. This gravitates around the 100Hz mark and gives kick fullness. The skill lies in balancing out the kick and bass so that both are audible and compliment one another.

 Snare – a fat, snappy snare is a staple of dance music and other club genres, and as such there is a tendency to highlight the impact of a hit through strategic equalization between 250Hz and 1.5 KHz.

Hi-Hats – as the high frequency element of beat, hi-hats see equalization in the higher frequencies which gives them a brighter and airy feel.

Photos courtesy of The Fayj and Vlxa

The 90s provided some of the most notable and classic Hip Hop and Rap tracks through pioneers such as 2Pac, Dead Prez and The Roots. However, no other artist has quite grasped the attention of the mainstream public like Dr. Dre and his truly unique sound. From his humble beginning in the early 80s to the era defining sound of arguably his best album ‘2001’ in the late 90s, he is undeniably a hallmark of Hip Hop and a priceless inspiration to many of today’s biggest producers, and an inspiration to all who desire to make their own beats.

Most people can immediately recognise the first haunting piano notes of his classic track ‘Still D.R.E’ and if the song is dropped in any party setting, most will embark in a heartfelt sing along of the lyrics. What makes his tracks so poignant and has etched them into the history of modern music as landmarks of gangster rap? More importantly, how can you go about making your own custom beats that sound just as good?

Dre’s music uses a number a of techniques which we delve into below, however note that talent and inspiration have played a big role in his popularity, unfortunately these cannot be taught but merely cultivated through life experience and a deep rooted love of music. His musical path has been a long and mixed one with humble beginnings as a DJ to international stardom as a rapper. However, what has remained throughout these many reincarnations is a devotion to music and an unmatched work ethic.

Dre’s use of Samples

If you really want to make your own custom beats, it is essential that you understand Dre’s use of samples.  Dre’s beats are infused with samples and few are the songs that do not make use of the technique. Early albums mainly sourced samples from funk and soul monoliths like Parliament and Gil Scott-Heron. Later records are far more varied with sounds borrowed from obscure artist such as the French ballad maestro Charles Aznavour.

On the track ‘What’s the Difference’, the driving horns are a vivid example of how Dre uses sampling to infuse his tracks with a natural, nearly organic warmth that contrasts with the synthetic melodies and drum machine beats. Regardless of the origin of the samples, they are defining characteristics of custom beats by Dre.

From the above, it is apparent that there is no set method to find and use samples. Arguably, Dre simply took instruments, vocal lines and breaks from some of his favourite artists and tracks from the past. The famous idiom ‘write what you know’ seems aptly suited to the Dre sampling style.

Dre’s Use of Synthesizer

Synths epitomize the west coast sound; those hi pitched grooving melodies that give tracks an airy, Californian vibe are in direct contrast to the sombre hitting aggressiveness of New York rap. Characterised by pitch shifting, long drawn out notes with quick rhythmic changes between them, the synths used on Dre tracks are generally used as a means of sprucing up and embellishing the sample choices.

On many albums he enlisted the help of session keyboard players which is why the melodies are so fine tuned and apt to the context of each song. This choice of instrumentation has had a lasting impact on west coast rap and spurred a copy cat movement; most tracks now use some type of summery synthesizer line to brighten up their feel.

 Dre’s use of Drums and Beats

 Dre’s beats are known for their drive and groove, a perfect accompaniment to his strong, defined vocals. He has managed to couple two important elements of drums into one digestible package. The beats make use of samples for hi-hat and cymbal play but are backed up by drum machine kick and snare hits, as such permeating his tracks with a nagging catchiness that sits perfectly under the flow of his lyrics.

Dre has created a grooving bed for the rest of his instrumentation to lie in; the beats are never jarring though they are repetitive, never too busy or too empty, and consequently it is safe to assume that one of the most defining features of the Dre sound is the appropriateness of the use of drums.

To make your own custom beats following Dre’s method, a beat making program like Dub Turbo is essential.  Find out more about this hot beat making program and take the important first steps to making your own killer beats.

To recap, the Dre sound is achieved through a cohesive and mutually beneficial amalgamation of samples, synthesizers and drums. In essence, he has taken the old technique of sampling and updated it with more contemporary elements of produced music to create a unique and captivating sound.

In this short guide we will show how to make a great sounding rap beat that will challenge even the most seasoned professionals. To begin you may feel somewhat bewildered by the thought of making your own hip hip beats due to the sheer amount of guides, walkthroughs, programs, and effects on offer. However, with a little practice you will be on your way in no time.

The most important thing to remember is that music production is a little like learning to ride a bike; once you figure out how to balance on the bike, negotiate corners and break, the skill is with your for the remainder of your life. Laying down beats will become second nature in no time.

How do I get a start on making my own beats?

There are many ways to make your own rap beats, it all depends on what inspires you or what you feel most comfortable doing. Many people make beats based on a drum loop they have come up with in their heads, or through tapping patterns out during a long bus ride then rushing home to lay it down. Others prefer an experimental approach such as using odd sounds or playing around with drum hits until something strikes their fancy. Remember there is no set method and any process is as valid as the next.

For a little push in the right direction, it is worth playing around with beat making software to test its limitations. These exist as standalone programs or can be used online without any installation necessary. One good example is the DubTurbo, a versatile production suite.

**Check out Dub Turbo Beat making software review to find out the ways this program can help you to make your own Rap beats**

The Basics to making your own beats

Once you’ve come up with a concept, its time to lay down the drum hits into a pattern that we call a drum beat. Three main elements are needed to constitute a beat, though this is by no means exhaustive, and depending on the ambience of a track you may want to experiment with less elements or more complex rhythms.

 Kick

the kick always marks the beginning of a loop. It acts as an introduction that sets the scene for the rest of the beat. Be conscientious with your use of kicks as overuse can saturate a beat and make it sounds cluttered.

 Snare

The snare acts as the confirmation of what the kick has set up at the beginning of a loop. Their sound often sits within the mid frequencies and gives off a defining vibe. The snare is basically the hit that will give your beat groove and head-nodding qualities.

 Hi-Hats

Hi-hats measure the pace of a beat. In essence, they are the framework of a loop because they generally respect the amount of beats in a bar. They keep the tempo and give consistency to the interaction between your kick and snare.

When laying out your beat, there is no need to necessarily start with one of the above elements every time. Differing producers prefer different starting points. Some will favour setting down a solid hi-hat sequence and moulding the kick/snare relationship around it. Whilst others will prefer to get a driving kick and snare basis before embellishing a beat with hat-hats. Play around with all three of these rudiments to create unique combinations that will set your beats apart from the rest.

 Instruments

Once you’ve got a beat, its time to implement instruments and samples. Some favour the use of Virtual Instruments, which are essentially digital incarnations of physical instruments. Piano lines, guitar stabs, saxophone melodies or synthesizer leads are all valid starting points.

When choosing instrumentation, consider what your track is trying to convey; knowing the emotional content of a song is the main job of any producer. A nostalgic subject will benefit from sentimental string arrangements, whilst an aggressive rant will sit nicely with a driving, distorted lead or obscure sample from a classic movie.

 Effects, Mixing and Mastering

Now that your beat is solid and your instrumental is locking into the emotional aspect of your track, the real producing commences. Effects such as compression, delay, equalisation etc, are great for improving the quality of the sound or making certain elements more prominent than others. Mixing and mastering tools will allow you to raise the volume of your track so that it meets industry standards – there is a tendency for novice tracks to sound weak and quiet. Learn some more about making your own beats online.

**photos courtesy of tibchris

Hip Hop’s undeniable popularity has heralded an era of mass interest in the production of instrumentals to accompany rappers and MCs. With this wave of curiosity has come a vast array of software capable of creating Hip Hop beats within the comfort of the home setting, opening up possibility to even the most untrained and unmusical of people.

Luckily, these programs reflect the quality and functionality of professional hardware set ups so even a beginner will have huge sounding beats in no time. The only limits are imagination and motivation.

 Is it possible to create top-notch Hip Hop beats of your own without specialized training?

So you fancy having a go at being a Hip Hop beat creator? You’ve come to the right place. Below you will find a few tips and comments on how to start making solid, broadcast ready beats that are on par with even the most experienced professionals.

The first thing you need is a program to make beats, however when you conduct a simple internet search don’t be surprised if you are overwhelmed by the amount of software on offer. There are countless programs out there that offer similar content and functions. You can literally drown in a sea of beat making options.

Choosing can be a difficult task especially if you have no prior experience of music making or production, so a good tip is to stay clear of web based programs. They tend to have limited functionality, as well as reduced save and export functions, and by their nature require you to be connected to the web throughout your sessions. In addition, they offer no expansion possibilities should you wish to use an alternative effect or instrument. This is a critical point, since all advanced beat making will make it essential to able to import and export the best beats at will.

What are the best options for making your own Hip Hop Beats?

Stand-alone beat making software programs offer a comprehensive solution to all your current and future production needs. When you buy such software not only will you get a professional level digital audio workstation but it is common to find thorough guides and walkthroughs that will ease you into the world of production.

The big programs are well worth the investment because though they will leave a dent in your wallet, you will be set for the rest of your career. Update possibilities mean you will always be up to date with the latest version and, instrument/sample packs are guaranteed to be of a high quality because they are issued by the program creators who invest their expertise and time into providing industry standard products.

The only downside is that software such as Logic Pro, Ableton Live and Pro Tools have a steep learning curve attached to them. The beginner may find it daunting when first viewing the complex interfaces, and will undoubtedly be baffled by the sound manipulation and effect options available.

Some will prefer the out of the box functionality of programs like DubTurbo which offer simplicity without foregoing the quality of the sound engine and scope for expansion. DubTurbo works online and offline so whatever you preference, the program caters for it. If you are new to beat making I strongly suggest you at least take a look at the Dub Turbo system, since it is the perfect blend of quality and affordability.

{Check out a Dub Turbo Review to find out more}

 What do you after you have chosen your Hip Hop beat making software

Once you’ve chosen software, the next step is choosing a beat making interface that works for you. Thanks to MIDI and Virtual Instrumentation it has never been easier to program truly unique beats that sound original, provocative and captivating. Inbuilt drum samplers and drum machines are the logical place to start but some may wish to scour the web for other alternatives that may be more suited to their specific style of Hip Hop.

In terms of instrumentation, there are a number of options at available. Professional session musicians are always a good place to start as they guarantee results and can adapt to any mood you will want to convey through your tracks. However, the financial backing necessary is not available to everyone. Fortunately, Virtual Instruments work just as well though the actual choice of notes, rhythm and musicianship rests in your hands from strings through to chunky, distorted synthesizer leads.

As a final note; it is well worth hunting down information on production, techniques and tips by searching for information online. A number of sites have comprehensive guides that cover all aspects of software, instrumentation and style. They are comprehensive and suited to all levels. As a word of caution stay away from eBooks as these tend to have limited content and do little to help expand your set of skills.

Electronic, dance, club music – whatever you want to call it – is invariably characterised by prominent drums that sound synthetic or unnatural. By veering away from the traditional veneer of live drummers, the music has come to be known for its driving, thumping beats. When starting out it is always a challenge trying to mimic the punch and drive of chart toppers or crowd pleasers.

There is a reason why this is so important (and at first difficult):

Producers have learnt to manipulate and shape drums through years of trial and error. In essence, it’s a set of skills that are acquired rather than being spontaneously part and parcel of booting up a piece of software. It is as much art as science, the more you practice and listen, the better you will get at it, and some people have a natural affinity more than others for the process to making your own beats online.

Though, it is important not to downgrade the value of beat machine software, producers aren’t made over night and part of the reason electronic music has such a wide and devoted audience is because its hard to make well. Anyone can bust out a beat in a few minutes but nine times out of ten it will sound weak.

The following tips should help you on your way to choosing a beat machine software that works for you and will ease you into the vast world of electronic music production.

 So, what exactly is Beat Machine Software?

Ever heard those artificial sounding drums in 80’s synth-pop anthems? The old 808’s? Those are created using drum machines. Drum machines have a long history that dates back as far as the early 1930s but really came into their element in the late seventies, and cemented their popularity in the 80s to become one of the most loved digital instruments around.

Drum machines are traditionally rather chunky pieces of equipment, expensive and offer little scope for moving beyond the basic sounds provided in the box. With the rise of home computers and the appearance of myriad production workstations available to the average computer user, programmers and musicians alike came up with the nifty idea of digitally emulating the sound of drum machines.

Thanks to MIDI – which is an ingenious way to transcribe musical notations into a digital format, in essence allowing the replication of any melody, and through intelligent sound design, of an instrument’s sound – beat machine software not only mimics the sound of some of the classic drum machines of the past (Roland TR 808 for example), but allows further manipulation of the sound to create truly unique drum hits and patterns.

Virtual Instruments and Beat Machine Software

Now, its all well and good knowing that the beat making software emulates hardware drum machines but how does it actually work. Load up any digital audio workstation (Ableton, Logic, Cubase…) and you will be offered the possibility of using virtual instruments; they are exactly what they say on the box – a virtual instrument. Through some fairly complex logarithms and sound processing engines, these very small files allow you to load up an interface independent of the workstation and tweak, manipulate to your heart’s content.

Beat machine software not only does all of the above, but it also comes with a handy sequencer which is basically a visual timeline of a beat. Say you have 16 beats in your bar; you will have 16 usable areas on the sequencer. Play your beat and the sound will directly correlate with what is happening on screen; hi-hat on every beat, kick of the 1^st, 5^th,9^th and 13^th beat, and snare on 3^rd, 7^th, 11^th and 15th should give you a pretty solid rock beat. From here it is a question of assigning various sounds to the sequencer and playing around with patterns until you come up with something you’re happy with.

Where to Start?

 Most digital audio workstations come equipped with pretty decent beat machine software; Reason’s Redrum is a great place to start, Ableton offers a variety of beat machine options, the list goes on. If you’ve yet to get your hands on production software, it is possible to use remote online based ones such as the DubTurbo Beat Maker, a versatile and powerful piece of kit.

If you want my advice, here is the best program to get your started on beat making: Dub Turbo Beat making Software.

Check out the entire review here:

http://www.beatmakingsoftwarenow.com/dubturbo-beat-marker-review/

Beat making is an inspiring and worthwhile hobby (or career choice) but be prepared to put in the hours and learn the ins and outs of beat machines, sequencers, effects and so on. It’s worth the effort and the results provide an unmatched sense of satisfaction.

 **Photos Courtesy of Andrew Rusk

Traditionally, beat making software has been limited to installed programs that run from your computer system, there is new trend whereby programmers are creating online beat making workstations that contend with the heavy weights of software digital audio workstations.

Arguably, this rise can be explained by limited computer specifications or limited processing power that stunt many budding producers from taking their first steps and creating tracks. In a sense, the appearance of online alternatives sees a democratization of the access to software because all one needs is a web browser and an internet connection to start bashing out great sounding beats.

A further factor that has contributed to the spectacular rise is the immediacy of online programs; there is no need for lengthy installation procedures and most are free to use, or levy a nominal fee, as opposed to the hundreds needed to purchase a software equivalent. The lack of a price tag allows producers to pick and choose freely so as not to be limited by the constraints of a single program.

Surprisingly, the software is designed to handle most bandwidth allowances so even if you are stuck with a slow internet connection, it will still work as intended. The programs really flow and though most of the work is stored on a server in a different country, you’ll be churning out tracks quickly and efficiently.

In a desire to reach as many people as possible, online software programmers have simplified the interface and truly streamlined the way sound is actually produced; though someone may have no formal musical background or technical expertise, they are able to immediately produce music which truly is an attractive element to novices.

 How do the Online Beat Making capabilities stack up?

Online Beat making software boasts many, if not all of the features expected of a professional grade product: flowing sequencers to construct your tracks, a variety of effects to spruce up your beats, and straight forward interfaces  Inbuilt instruments like drum machines, guitars, organs and so on give you a huge swathe of sounds to choose from. And, mixing and mastering suits guarantee your tracks with sound big, radio ready and most of all, professional.

It would be futile to attempt to describe how to make music on each program as there are simply too many of them, however most boast pretty comprehensive tutorials to get you on the right track. Some even offer video versions of lessons for those that prefer the visual medium.

Save and load functions allow you to revisit projects just as you would with an installed program creating a sense of consistency. This function shows that programmers are adapting to modern needs and have understood a large portion of web users do so via different machines, so wherever you are it is possible to pick up where you left off. Geographical constraints are no longer a concern for producers.

Other uses that appear in traditional programs also boost the credibility of online software. By its accessibility, the program allows for multiple artists to work on a track making collaboration easier than ever before, though this is not possible at the same time, but who knows with the speed of developments these days, it may soon be possible to work on a track simultaneously with someone across the globe.

 Is Beat Making Online the right option for you?

Though, they have many attractive features the programs are essentially online so the potential for a crash and gut wrenching loss of data is likely. Certain people will quickly out grow the limited expansion options and lack of variety in terms of instrumentation.

All in all they offer a viable alternative to conventional software thanks to an innovative and strangely responsive solution that will please beginners and experts alike. They are highly recommended as a stepping stone towards the dominating industry standard programs like Pro Tool and Logic Pro, as they offer an easy introduction to production without sacrificing the professional elements. An easy learning curve allows for progressive learning and the development of skills so producers can create at their own pace and degree of complexity.

To get you started, DubTurbo is a wonderful program that outshines many of its contemporaries with the quality of the audio, functionality and sleek appearance. For an in-depth review please visit the DubTurbo Beat Maker Review.

**Photos courtesy of Nathan Dainty