I want to become a mini music mogul, help me out.

[J. Crawford]

Well, I officially have broken down and stopped fighting my want to record.. I have been watching videos, tutorials, and playing music for years and years now and I want to make it official. I have recorded in studios before, but I want to become my own mini mogul.

I just got a Macbook Pro (which didn't help any) and want to base everything around it.

I'm really into anything hip hop and dubstep. I always have been, so that's my main concern. Its just for fun right now, not planning on making money on this or anything.

My list of must haves goes:
1. MIDI Controller- Im thinking a keyboard, one of the ~25 key ones.
2. Monitors/Headphones
3. Garageband at first until I can afford Logic or something.
4. Maybe a MIDI pad controller.

I'm a total noob to this, but being in college I'm really interested as something to pass my time. My school even has Music Production as a major, so I could probably take some courses or minor in it if the time comes.

Any help is appreciated guys/gals!
J.

[J. Crawford]

Not a soul?

[L-A]

As a Keyboard / MIDI input / MIDI controller / MIDI pad, you could find a M-Audio Axiom (25 or 49). They're great mini-workhorses, and integrate really well with Garageband and Logic.

The only thing it won't do in your list is audio in and out – for that you'll need a small audio interface. Maybe a Fast-track or an M-Box?

[J. Crawford]

Will I need a interface right now? All I plan on doing MIDI work, a la dubstep. I know I need an interface for recording live instruments, but will I for my needs? Wont the MIDI just plug straight into the USB, then run it into Logic?

Thanks for the reply L-A!

[L-A]

No problem!

You can go straight with headphones or monitors if you don't plan on doing audio input. The easiest way to get good response is with in-ears of decent quality. If you're looking for good, small self-amplified monitors I'd see what Roland/Edirol have to offer.