In the beginning of the DAW (digital audio workstation) revolution Pro-tools was considered the gold standard in studio recording (and still is) by both small and big studios alike. Most people just went with it because of it's popularity but the truth is, there are options and there have always been options.

There are many great sounding DAW's that are equal if not better than Pro-tools. There is Logic, Digital Performer (DP), Cubase, Nuendo and others which do the same thing as Protools for a lot less. My Personal preference is DP, it's ease of use, great sound quality, unlimited tracks (as much as your computer can handle) and access to lots and lots of Audio Unit plugins make it a no brainer because you get so much for a lot less money.

So when building your studio, don't just go with Pro-tools because "everybody uses it" or because someone said that your favorite record was recorded on it, think about your options and go with works for YOU best.  I learned years ago when I first started producing music that the equipment you use is only as good as its operator. Many people swore by the MPC and still do but I know quite a few wanna be producers who bought one and their beats were still wack.  I, by the way, used an Ensoniq EPS 16+ for all of my hits in the 90's and early 2000's. I just wanted to be different and stand out. If you are ever to become a successful producer or engineer, follow your heart and dare to be different.  Innovators lead the pack and do not follow!

Until next month,
Keep Bangin the hits
Crazy C!

I sometimes I get asked this question in many forms and they always make me laugh. The other day I was talking to someone and they were dissing a studio because they used Cubase instead of Protools. I told that person that it really doesn't matter what software you use, it is the person behind the software that is going to make the difference. Personally, I use Digital Performer eventhough I have Protools and Logic as well, DP just works better for me. The sound quality is the same with most high end software.

So to that end, I would say that you don't HAVE to use Protools to make a great song. Use Protools if you like it but don't make a choice based upon reasoning that says you HAVE to use it.

Do not go by the follow the bandwagon method because "everyone is using it" because in actually they are not. More and more people are using Logic and Digital Performer instead.

Just something to think about!