Buying a motherboard for music production sounds like an easy pick. Right? Actually, it is not.
I have been producing, remixing, and DJing for more than 10 years now. Over time, what I picked as a hobby turned me into a music geek.
Most people would want you to pick up a specific brand. Maybe, it is something that they have used for years and has helped them to get the best results.
But, I am not going to do that. Because, according to me your motherboard is one of the most prominent components in a computer. And, you should do your research before coming to a decision. Since, you have to run various different vsti and plugins it important to have an idea which motherboard offers you th best performance.
- Top 10 Best Motherboards For Music Production
- 1. Asus ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming Wi-Fi II (Intel):
- 2. Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX (Intel):
- 3. ASRock X670E Taichi (AMD):
- 4. Asus ROG Strix B760-F Gaming Wi-Fi (Intel):
- 5. ASRock B650E Taichi Lite (AMD):
- 6. MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk Wi-Fi (Intel):
- 7. ASRock B650 LiveMixer (AMD):
- 8. ASRock B660M Steel Legend (AMD):
- 9. ASRock B650E PG-ITX (AMD):
- 10. ASRock X570 Extreme4 (AMD):
- What are things we should consider when it comes to buying motherboards as an audio engineer or a music producer?
- What computer components are important for music production?
- Final Thoughts
Although, we have mentioned all the important factors. We have handpicked 10 motherboards to make your search easier. Here are –
| Motherboard Model | Processor | Audio |
|---|---|---|
| Asus ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming Wi-Fi II | Intel | HD Audio |
| Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX | Intel | HD Audio |
| ASRock X670E Taichi | AMD Ryzen 7000 | HD Audio |
| Asus ROG Strix B760-F Gaming Wi-Fi | Intel | HD Audio |
| ASRock B650E Taichi Lite | AMD Ryzen 7000 | HD Audio |
| MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk Wi-Fi | Intel | HD Audio |
| ASRock B650 LiveMixer(Budget) | AMD 7000 | HD Audio |
| ASRock B660M Steel Legend(Budget) | AMD 7000 | HD Audio |
| ASRock B650E PG-ITX(Budget) | AMD 7000 Series | HD Audio |
| ASRock X570 Extreme4 | AMD 2000, 3000, 4000 G-Series, 5000 and 5000 G-Series Desktop Processors | HD Audi |
Top 10 Best Motherboards For Music Production
1. Asus ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming Wi-Fi II (Intel):
A powerhouse designed for gaming and multitasking enthusiasts, the ROG Strix Z790-A Gaming Wi-Fi II is a top-tier motherboard from Asus. With a focus on delivering high-performance computing, it seamlessly integrates Wi-Fi connectivity for efficient networking.
Wi-Fi Capabilities: Ensures convenient and reliable wireless networking.
ROG Strix Series: Part of the prestigious ROG Strix family, known for gaming excellence.
Multitasking Prowess: Tailored to handle demanding tasks, making it suitable for music production.
2. Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Elite AX (Intel):
The Aorus Elite AX motherboard by Gigabyte is a reliable choice for those seeking stability and performance. With AX Wi-Fi capabilities, it provides fast and stable wireless connections, making it a valuable asset for music producers who rely on seamless networking.
AX Wi-Fi: Equipped with AX Wi-Fi for fast and stable wireless connectivity.
Aorus Elite Series: Part of the Aorus Elite family, known for its reliability and performance.
Demanding Task Handling: Designed to handle the rigors of music production and other resource-intensive tasks.
3. ASRock X670E Taichi (AMD):
As part of the Taichi series, the ASRock X670E Taichi motherboard is built for robust performance. Utilizing the latest X670 chipset, it offers advanced connectivity features crucial for music production professionals seeking a high-end motherboard.
Advanced Connectivity: Utilizes the latest X670 chipset for cutting-edge features.
Taichi Series: Part of the Taichi lineup, known for its performance and aesthetic appeal.
High-End Component Support: Designed to support powerful components essential for music production tasks.
4. Asus ROG Strix B760-F Gaming Wi-Fi (Intel):
The Asus ROG Strix B760-F Gaming Wi-Fi is a standout motherboard that balances gaming prowess with multitasking capabilities. Equipped with Wi-Fi functionality, it seamlessly combines a striking design with reliable performance, catering to both gaming and music production needs.
Striking Design: A visually appealing motherboard that complements performance.
Wi-Fi Convenience: Features Wi-Fi for hassle-free networking.
Gaming and Multitasking: Tailored for users who demand both gaming excellence and multitasking capabilities.
5. ASRock B650E Taichi Lite (AMD):
The ASRock B650E Taichi Lite is a budget-conscious motherboard that doesn’t compromise on essential features. As part of the Taichi Lite series, it brings stability on the B650 chipset, making it an excellent choice for users seeking a balance of performance and value.
Budget-Friendly: Designed with affordability in mind without sacrificing critical features.
Simplified Taichi Design: Carries the signature Taichi aesthetics in a simplified form.
B650 Stability: Built on the B650 chipset to ensure stable performance for music production tasks.
6. MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk Wi-Fi (Intel):
The MSI MAG B760 Tomahawk Wi-Fi is a robust motherboard that emphasizes durability. As part of the Military-Armor-Grade (MAG) series, it offers Wi-Fi capabilities for a wireless edge and strikes a balance between affordability and performance.
Military-Armor-Grade Durability: Designed for durability and reliability.
Wi-Fi Connectivity: Includes Wi-Fi functionality for wireless convenience.
Mid-Range Affordability: Tailored for mid-range budgets without compromising on performance.
7. ASRock B650 LiveMixer (AMD):
Specifically crafted for music production, the ASRock B650 LiveMixer shines in real-time audio processing. Balancing performance and affordability, it caters to live mixing needs and ensures a smooth experience for music producers.
Live Mixing Focus: Tailored to enhance real-time audio processing for live mixing scenarios.
Balanced Performance: Strikes a balance between performance and affordability.
Music Production-Centric: Crafted with features that cater specifically to music production requirements.
8. ASRock B660M Steel Legend (AMD):
The ASRock B660M Steel Legend stands out with its stylish design and a compact Micro-ATX form factor. Ideal for smaller setups, it incorporates the B660 chipset, offering reliable performance for music production enthusiasts.
Stylish Steel Legend Design: Known for its stylish aesthetics within the Steel Legend series.
Compact Micro-ATX: Ideal for smaller setups without compromising on performance.
B660 Reliability: Built on the B660 chipset to ensure stability in music production tasks.
9. ASRock B650E PG-ITX (AMD):
Embracing the Mini-ITX form factor, the ASRock B650E PG-ITX is designed for compact builds. As part of the PG-ITX series, it focuses on delivering performance in a small form factor, making it ideal for space-conscious music production setups.
Mini-ITX Form Factor: Designed for compact builds and space-conscious setups.
PG-ITX Series: Part of the PG-ITX lineup, emphasizing performance in a small package.
Space-Conscious Design: Ideal for users looking for a balance of performance in limited spaces.
10. ASRock X570 Extreme4 (AMD):
As a part of the Extreme4 series, the ASRock X570 Extreme4 is built to deliver high-end performance. With the X570 chipset, it incorporates advanced features and connectivity, making it a suitable choice for music production professionals with demanding requirements.
High-End Performance: Tailored for users seeking top-tier performance in music production.
X570 Chipset: Utilizes the advanced features and connectivity of the X570 chipset.
Demanding Task Handling: Engineered to handle resource-intensive tasks for professionals.
What are things we should consider when it comes to buying motherboards as an audio engineer or a music producer?
Budget:
First and foremost, set the budgetary tone. It’s the rhythm that sets the entire ensemble.
Longevity:
Consider the lifespan of your gear. Opt for a motherboard with components built for the long haul.
Audio Driver Quality:
Focus on the soul of your sound and audio drivers. Ensure your motherboard boasts quality audio drivers for that crisp playback. Sometimes it won’t matter though, because most boards are shipped with great audio audio drivers and audio hardware.
Connectivity:
Check the variety of ports. USB, HDMI, Thunderbolt, enough to seamlessly connect your instruments, interfaces, and more.
Maxing Out Potential:
Avoid creative roadblocks. Ensure your motherboard can handle the heavy lifting, supporting your planned RAM and CPU power moves.
Warranty Backup:
Like a reliable backup singer, a solid warranty has your back. Prioritize motherboards with decent warranty coverage.
Upgradability:
Think ahead. If you have existing components, ensure your motherboard is upgradable and plays well with your current gear.
Form Factor:
Consider the size and shape that fits your studio space ATX, micro-ATX, and mini-ITX without cramping your style.
What computer components are important for music production?
Processor (CPU):
The maestro of your setup. Consider the CPU carefully, matching its power with your intended workload. It’s the heartbeat of your system. Most DAWs require a lot of firepower and a strong CPU can take it to whole another level.
Graphics Processing Unit (GPU):
There are plugins and DAWs now supporting the Artificial Intelligence/AI moment and AIs rely on GPU for a lot of tasks. Even though it is not being used so extensively for audio engineering or music production now. In the future, it probably will. Also, . If you’re into graphics-intensive tasks or gaming, invest in a GPU that harmonizes seamlessly with your aspirations.
Random Access Memory (RAM):
Think of RAM as your short-term memory. The more, the merrier. It helps keep your applications and processes in sync, enhancing multitasking and overall performance.
Storage (HDD/SSD):
Your storage is like the sheet music of your composition. Invest in a mix of HDD for bulk storage and SSD for that lightning-fast tempo in loading times.
Power Supply Unit (PSU):
The powerhouse behind the scenes. Ensure your PSU provides ample wattage and reliability to fuel your entire setup. It’s the unsung hero keeping the lights on.
Cooling System:
Things can get hot in the studio. A robust cooling system, whether air or liquid, keeps your components from overheating, maintaining optimal performance.
Case:
The outer shell of your musical fortress. Choose a case that not only accommodates your components but also has adequate airflow and a style that resonates with you.
Display/Monitor
If visuals matter, invest in a high-quality monitor. Consider factors like resolution, refresh rate, and color accuracy for a visual feast.
Input Devices
Your instruments. Whether it’s a high-quality keyboard and mouse or a graphic tablet, choose tools that translate your creative impulses accurately.
Audio Interface
For audiophiles, an external audio interface can significantly enhance sound quality, especially if you’re serious about music production.
Final Thoughts
Motherboard is an important component of music production. Though other components are something that has been given weightage in the past, you cannot simply ignore the motherboard. Your motherboard should be able to process data quickly and help you get the best out of your music-making or music-production software. So, before you jump to just any motherboard. Look for options inspect them well and buy the one that you think is suitable and within your budget.
Happy Music Making!
