05-27-2016, 10:09 PM
[This FAQ is a work in progress. Please post suggestions for additional Q/A's and other feedback below. Thanks.]
Okay, so you've decided that you would like to try your hands at virtual orchestration. And scouring the web for tips and information, you've ended up here. So let's see if we can help answer some of the questions you might have.
Do I need a high-end orchestral sample library?
No. You shouldn't buy anything but one of the cheapest libraries available before you're absolutely certain this is something you're going to get serious about. A high-end sample library is wasted on a beginner and will likely just confuse and frustrate you with all its advanced features and innumerable options. High-end libraries are also VERY expensive.
Do I need a powerful computer?
Anything manufactured after 2010 that is not a netbook will probably do the trick if you're starting out. Basically, if it's multicore, has at least 4GB RAM and runs Windows 7 (PC) or OS 10.6 Snow Leopard (Mac) or higher you're good to go. Of course, this depends on the library and the software that runs it so make sure to check out the system requirements before buying anything. If your computer is on the meek side, pick a library that isn't too taxing.
Which DAW is best?
Short answer: The one that works best for you.
Long answer: To dispel a common myth, modern DAW's sound exactly the same unless they are designed to mimic the character of hardware mixing consoles or there's something wrong with them. Behind the scenes it's all the same math so make sure to choose your DAW from criteria such as features, workflow, UI, bundled content and price, not "sound".
What level of computer skill do I need?
An average grasp of computers is highly recommended. Meaning, some experience with file handling (copying, moving and deleting files, creating folders, navigating your hard drive etc), installing drivers and programs, and configuring your computer for best performance. If the prospect of doing anything beyond opening and closing your web browser makes your palms clammy, you're probably not ready for DAW work. Going from such a basic level of computer use to working with an advanced program is just going to be a pain, and you will be better off taking some course in computer basics before venturing further. Alternatively, maybe you have some computer savvy friend or relative who might be willing to teach you?
Do I need to have a background in music?
Yes. You need to walk before you can run. Obviously, anyone can draw notes with the mouse into a piano roll editor, but if you have no idea what you're doing or how music works, the results are not going to be that great. Especially considering that orchestral music is likely one of the most complex styles of music in existance.
Do I need to have a background in orchestral music?
No, but it helps. Even some familiarity with the genre from having listened to it a lot will be beneficial.
Must I be able to read/write notation?
No, but it helps. If nothing else so that you can study printed scores of classical works for education and inspiration.
Anything else I need to be prepared to spend money on?
Three things:
As far as these three go, get the best things your budget will allow.
Okay, so you've decided that you would like to try your hands at virtual orchestration. And scouring the web for tips and information, you've ended up here. So let's see if we can help answer some of the questions you might have.
Do I need a high-end orchestral sample library?
No. You shouldn't buy anything but one of the cheapest libraries available before you're absolutely certain this is something you're going to get serious about. A high-end sample library is wasted on a beginner and will likely just confuse and frustrate you with all its advanced features and innumerable options. High-end libraries are also VERY expensive.
Do I need a powerful computer?
Anything manufactured after 2010 that is not a netbook will probably do the trick if you're starting out. Basically, if it's multicore, has at least 4GB RAM and runs Windows 7 (PC) or OS 10.6 Snow Leopard (Mac) or higher you're good to go. Of course, this depends on the library and the software that runs it so make sure to check out the system requirements before buying anything. If your computer is on the meek side, pick a library that isn't too taxing.
Which DAW is best?
Short answer: The one that works best for you.
Long answer: To dispel a common myth, modern DAW's sound exactly the same unless they are designed to mimic the character of hardware mixing consoles or there's something wrong with them. Behind the scenes it's all the same math so make sure to choose your DAW from criteria such as features, workflow, UI, bundled content and price, not "sound".
What level of computer skill do I need?
An average grasp of computers is highly recommended. Meaning, some experience with file handling (copying, moving and deleting files, creating folders, navigating your hard drive etc), installing drivers and programs, and configuring your computer for best performance. If the prospect of doing anything beyond opening and closing your web browser makes your palms clammy, you're probably not ready for DAW work. Going from such a basic level of computer use to working with an advanced program is just going to be a pain, and you will be better off taking some course in computer basics before venturing further. Alternatively, maybe you have some computer savvy friend or relative who might be willing to teach you?
Do I need to have a background in music?
Yes. You need to walk before you can run. Obviously, anyone can draw notes with the mouse into a piano roll editor, but if you have no idea what you're doing or how music works, the results are not going to be that great. Especially considering that orchestral music is likely one of the most complex styles of music in existance.
Do I need to have a background in orchestral music?
No, but it helps. Even some familiarity with the genre from having listened to it a lot will be beneficial.
Must I be able to read/write notation?
No, but it helps. If nothing else so that you can study printed scores of classical works for education and inspiration.
Anything else I need to be prepared to spend money on?
Three things:
- An audio interface. I.e. an external sound card with higher quality components and more features than your computer's built-in audio chip. Dedicated audio intefaces also offer low-latency drivers, which is crucial if you're going to be playing things live on...
- A MIDI controller. I.e. a piano keyboard for playing and recording notes. A minimum of 49 full-size keys is recommended.
- A pair of monitors. Monitors, in audio lingo, are studio speakers designed to reveal flaws and provide accurate listening for mixing. Consumer speakers on the other hand are designed to mask the flaws and are unreliable for serious audio work (though they will of course do in a pinch if you can't afford anything better).
As far as these three go, get the best things your budget will allow.
Yep."