What is the best Mac for music production?

Music production requires high-quality equipment, including a high-quality computer that can handle modern as well as high-power recording and production software. Fortunately, most music production software is compatible with Mac computers. 

The best Mac for audio production overall might be the Mac Pro, simply because it has the most powerful processor, but, in the end, it all depends on the music producer’s needs. People in this business need a reliable computer with plenty of memory and storage. Doing a little research before purchasing ensures the user gets a laptop to fit their specific needs. 

Lightweight Mac computers for everyday use

Some music careers require portability, and MacBooks are the perfect match in this case, though they are less powerful than desktop computers. DJs and events coordinators may find MacBooks ideal since they are lightweight and easy to carry around. 

MacBook Pro

The MacBook Pro boasts a powerful processor for a laptop, giving it the ability to power bigger programs reliably. Users can lay multiple tracks fast and run large programs without losing speed. This MacBook comes with:

  • 4-, 9-, or 8-core Intel processors and Apple silicon processors;
  • up to 64GB of memory;
  • Retina display with True Tone technology;
  • Touch Bar and Touch ID for more productivity on some Mac models.

The Touch Bar sits at the top of the keyboard and automatically adapts to whatever program is running. This means that the user will have more control over audio production apps, like Logic Pro X, and it could eliminate the need for a wireless mouse. With the Touch Bar, music producers can jump to a location, fine-tune sounds, and turn the Touch Bar into an instrument they need. In Mac computers with Apple silicon, there is no Touch Bar. However, you may be willing to sacrifice the loss, given the improved performance.

The MacBook Pro also comes in three sizes — a 13-inch, a 15-inch, and a 16-inch — and starts at $1,299. All sizes come with solid-state drives (SSDs) for secure storage while traveling — something that will come in handy for music producers on thego.

MacBook Air

Being the lightest MacBook, this laptop is a great portable device to have. It weighs 2.75 pounds and is made from 100% recycled aluminum, making it eco-friendly. The MacBook Air starts at $1099 and features:

  • High-resolution Retina display with True Tone technology;
  • Touch ID;
  • Up to 24GB of memory;
  • An eighth-generation Intel Core i5 processor or Apple silicon chip.

Though it is one of the lightest laptops you can get, an Intel-based MacBook Air lacks screen space and may not be powerful enough for the music programs needed. However, MacBook Air with Apple silicon is more powerful than some MacBook Pro models. It comes with up to 2TB of SSD storage, which allows for fast app launches and plenty of room for documents and pictures, but it might not be enough for music programs and associated files. 

But even the most powerful laptops may get slower over time. We recommend using optimization software, like CleanMyMac X, to easily manage massive files and data on your computer and increase its performance. It will clear up old, unused files, hidden/background apps, and other memory hogs that can also help preserve peak performance over any Mac’s life.

Powerful laptops for an amazing performance

High-end audio work requires a high-powered central processing unit (CPU). CPUs do a lot of the “heavy lifting” on a computer, as their main job is to execute programs. In correlation, the bigger the processor, the better the music programs will run. 

iMac Pro

The iMac Pro is an all-in-one and starts at $4,999. It also provides a variety of ports to connect any equipment needed, like microphones, extra monitors, and USB instruments. The iMac Pro comes with:

  • 8-,10-, 14-, or 18-core processor;
  • Radeon Pro Vega graphics;
  • up to 256GB of memory;
  • 4TB of SSD.

With a 27-inch screen, a music producer can open several programs without having to flip between screens. Plus, with 4TB of all-flash storage, multiple music projects can be saved and loaded without the worry of the computer slowing down. However, currently, it is not available for online purchase on Apple’s website.

In case you have some issues with memory due to the excessive amount of apps, you could use CleanMyMac X’s Uninstaller module. It will remove unused apps from your Mac and delete leftovers that are usually hidden in your computer’s memory. Here’s how to use the Uninstaller module:

  1. Download CleanMyMac X for free here.
  2. Launch the app and select Uninstaller.
  3. Check the boxes next to the apps you want to remove and click Uninstall. 
  4. After CleanMyMac X removes the apps, check the Leftovers tab to delete the remaining data. 

CleanMyMac will then get rid of unnecessary apps and their data. 

But, what if you cleaning your Mac doesn’t make it more powerful? Then our next option will be great for you.

Mac Pro

The Mac Pro is available with up to 28-core processors, which means it’s the most powerful Mac to date. This Mac is made for professionals who need the best CPU performance. Music producers can play hundreds of virtual instruments with this Mac and store tons of files without the risk of running out. It also features:

  • Up to 1.5 TB memory;
  • Several alternatives of Intel Xeon W processors;
  • Radeon Pro graphics;
  • Up to 8TB SSD storage.

Given the above, so music producers can save and download multiple files in any size. It has various ports to plug into to connect any equipment needed. This is useful for those who are studio recording or mixing and mastering.

Affordable Macbooks for all-purpose use

Price can be a factor in making a decision like this. However, music producers shouldn’t let price stand in the way of performance. Mac has affordable options for people in this line of work.

iMac

The original iMac is an all-in-one that has an updated processor that allows for speed and high performance. It comes with a 24-inch screen. This computer’s processor boasts high speeds, which means running applications like Logic X Pro will be effortless. The iMac also features:

  • Apple M1 chip;
  • 8GB or 16GB high bandwidth memory;
  • Up to 2 TB storage;
  • 24-inch 4.5K Retina display with True Tone technology.

    For those looking for a big screen and an affordable price, the iMac could likely be the best of both worlds, starting at $1,299.

    Mac Mini

    The Mac Mini is powerful, fast, and relatively inexpensive compared to the MacBooks and iMacs. At $699, the Mini comes with new eighth-generation 6- and quad-core processors and up to 64GB of memory. It also has the same connectivity as an iMac so that music producers can hook up multiple instruments and microphones. Other features include:

    • up to 2TB SSD storage;
    • four Thunderbolt 3 ports;
    • up to 4.6GHz Turbo Boost.

    With the added SSD storage, music producers are able to save, download, and upload multiple large files, like a live concert sound engine. 

    In general, it’s important to look at memory and storage when considering an ideal computer since music producers will handle numerous amount of large files that need to be accessed quickly. Though music producers might think they need a computer with a powerful processor, the best type of computer really depends on the user’s needs. Whether you are a DJ traveling to gigs or a sound technician with a studio, Macs are a reliable choice for your future career.