For a long time, the word "studio" meant a dedicated space filled with expensive equipment. But technology has revolutionised music creation. I now prioritise the freedom and flexibility of a portable studio setup so I can work on music whenever and wherever inspiration strikes.
The Power of Portability
My core production setup fits in a backpack, allowing me to work virtually anywhere. This portability has significantly impacted my creative process:
- No More Geographic Limitations: I'm no longer confined to a studio room. Whether I'm travelling, staying with friends or family, or just want a change of scenery, I can still work on music if I want to.
- Capturing Inspiration on the Go: Ideas can strike anytime. My portable setup lets me get ideas down or make mix changes wherever I am.
- Streamlined Workflow: A minimalist setup encourages efficiency and focus. Rather than getting bogged down with complex routing or setting up equipment, I want to focus on creative work.
The Essentials: Inside My Backpack
Here are the key components of my portable studio:
- Laptop: My 2022 Macbook Air M2 is the heart of my setup. It’s small and light, and it's pretty incredible how much processing power an Air model can have these days.
- Headphones: My trusty Sony MDR-7506s have a sound I’ve grown familiar with over the last 10 years. They’re well-priced and pretty durable. I have a set at home, a set at work, and a set in my backpack.
- External SSD Storage: An external SSD stores my project files, samples, and software instrument data, keeping as many files as possible off my Mac so I don't clog it up. The hard drive is constantly backed up to Google Drive, so I can access files and sessions from anywhere (including on my phone) without having to do manual transfers.
- Audio Interface: If I need to record vocals or instruments away from my home studio, I'll take my Universal Audio Apollo Twin X interface. It’s compact, has high-quality preamps and converters, and onboard DSP for low-latency monitoring with compression, EQ, and other effects.
- Microphone: My Shure SM7B is a versatile dynamic microphone suited for various recording settings, and it's great for less-than-ideal acoustic environments. Mine is also signed by the great Sylvia Massy, which probably makes it sound better.
- Cables and Dongles: A selection of standard cables and dongles for compatibility with various devices I might need to connect to.
My Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)
The Digital Audio Workstation is the software environment for recording, editing, mixing, and production. I use Pro Tools, known for its worldwide industry-standard status in recording studios. I’m also a mixing engineer, and Pro Tools excels at recording, mixing, and editing work. It's not the most common DAW for music producers, but I know the software inside out so I can work fast and get my ideas down quickly. I’ve also used Ableton for some of my n1ghtmar3at work; it has a completely different workflow, which I found could sometimes inspire new ideas.
Most DAWs are great these days, so the one that helps you make music most effectively is probably the one you should use!
Embracing the Freedom
A portable setup gives me creative freedom. Inspiration can strike anywhere, and having easy access to my projects is a huge advantage. Since transitioning away from desktop computers, my portable setup has unlocked a new level of creative flexibility and spontaneity, and I won’t be looking back!
