7 Best Music Production Tools Under $100 (2023)

Music production can be an expensive endeavor, with high-end software and equipment often costing thousands of dollars. However, there are some essential music production tools that don’t break the bank. In this article, we will discuss some of the key tools you can use to create great music.

7 Best Music Production Tools

1. Audio-Technica ATH-M20x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones

Price: Around $50

Link: Audio-Technica ATH-M20x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones

Every music producer needs a reliable pair of headphones, and the Audio-Technica ATH-M20x is a fantastic choice. These headphones deliver accurate audio and outstanding comfort, perfect for long studio sessions. They are designed to reproduce your music accurately, ensuring that your mixes will sound good on all types of speakers and headphones.

2. Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII

Price: Around $100

Link: Akai Professional MPK Mini MKII

This compact keyboard controller is perfect for producers on the go. It features 25 synth-action mini keys, 8 backlit velocity-sensitive MPC-style pads, and 8 assignable Q-Link knobs. Plus, it comes with a suite of music production software, making it an excellent value for the price.

3. Behringer U-Phoria UM2 Audio Interface

Price: Around $50

Link: Behringer U-Phoria UM2 Audio Interface

The Behringer U-Phoria UM2 is a simple, affordable audio interface that offers everything you need to record high-quality audio. It features one XLR/TRS input for microphones and one instrument input for guitars or basses. It also has a direct monitor switch for zero-latency monitoring, which is essential for recording vocals or instruments.

4. PreSonus Eris E3.5-3.5″ Nearfield Studio Monitor (Pair)

Price: Around $100

Link: PreSonus Eris E3.5-3.5″ Nearfield Studio Monitor (Pair)

PreSonus Eris-series studio monitors are used worldwide by audio engineers who need to hear every detail of their recordings. Ideal for gaming and home video production, the Eris E3.5 employs the same technology as the larger Eris models to deliver studio-quality sound, with a smooth and accurate frequency response.

5. MXL 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

Price: Around $75

Link: MXL 770 Cardioid Condenser Microphone

The MXL 770 condenser microphone continues to amaze recording artists all over the world with its incredible price/performance ratio. Singers, especially rappers, love the 770 for its solid bass, as well as its upfront high-end. The MXL 770 even uses a high-quality FET preamp with balanced output for a wide dynamic range.

6. Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface

Price: Around $100

Link: Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen) USB Audio Interface

The Scarlett Solo is a compact and flexible audio interface that makes high-quality recording easy. It features one of the best performing Scarlett mic preamps the range has ever heard – now with Air – for recording vocals.

7. Tascam DR-05X Portable Audio Recorder

Price: Around $100

Link: Tascam DR-05X Portable Audio Recorder

The Tascam DR-05X is a versatile portable audio recorder that’s perfect for recording ideas, rehearsals, live performances, and more. It offers high-quality audio recording in a compact, easy-to-use design.

Conclusion

These are just a few examples of the affordable tools available for music production. With these tools, you can create high-quality music without spending a fortune. Remember, the most important factor in music production is not the price of your tools, but how you use them. Happy producing!

Additional Reading

Now that you’ve learned about the fundamentals of music theory, take some time to check out our other articles. Learn how to make money on YouTube as a musician. You can also learn audio engineering 101.

Check out this article comparing compressors and limiters. In this article, you can learn about the 7 best percussion VSTs. Learn the difference between SoundExchange vs SongTrust in this article.

Breve Music Studios publishes music to Spotify, YouTube Music, Amazon Music and more. Follow our pages on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube.

Listen to our ensembles: Breve Orchestra, Breve Music Ensemble, Breve Low Brass Ensemble, Breve Woodwind Ensemble, and Jermaine Harris on Spotify.