Technology Requirements for Contemporary Writing and Production

Contemporary Writing and Production is a tech-heavy major that relies on music technology to produce music. Learning and mastering these skills and techniques to become proficient requires commitment to practice and independence in execution, and students must be equipped with the right technology tools to succeed. The Contemporary Writing and Production Department has established the following technology requirements to ensure that all undergraduate students majoring in Contemporary Writing and Production have the necessary tools to create high-quality audio content using their own equipment.

Computer Requirements

All undergraduate students majoring in Contemporary Writing and Production must own an Apple MacBook Pro laptop computer that meets specific standards established by academic leadership. These are the minimum and recommended specifications:

This is a Mac-based program. No Windows, Linux, or PC can be used. Intel-based Macs are not recommended and cannot be supported.
 

Hardware Requirements

All undergraduate students majoring in Contemporary Writing and Production must own the following hardware:

• External hard drives: 4 TB or larger hard drive(s) to transfer files, backup work, and store additional libraries and sounds. Solid-state drives are recommended.
• Audio interface: A USB class-compliant 4-microphone input and 4-output audio interface, such as Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 or Steinberg UR-RT4, to record a drum set or multiple instruments at the same time. Alternatively, an audio interface with high-end preamps, such as Apollo Twin.
• Microphone: A large diaphragm condenser microphone, along with a pop filter, XLR cable, and mic stand.
• Headphones: Studio-grade closed-back headphones such as Sony MDR 7506, Sennheiser HD 280 Pro, or Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (*).
• MIDI controller: 61-key or larger MIDI keyboard with programmable faders and knobs.

(*) Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro headphones are available in three impedance levels (32 Ohms, 80 Ohms, and 250 Ohms). The 80 Ohms model is recommended for students for its universal usage, as the 250 Ohms model requires an audio interface.

Software requirements

All undergraduate students majoring in Contemporary Writing and Production must own the following software to ensure that the student can complete the required coursework, collaborate effectively, and interface with the facilities on campus.

All students enrolled in CW-191: Sequencing and Production Techniques are required to own all of the software components listed above. It is the student's responsibility to purchase all required hardware and software. These requirements apply to all CWP major courses regardless of the learning environment and learning modality.

Recommended Production Tools

In addition to the required software, Contemporary Writing and Production faculty have curated a list of music production tools that we recommend to students, including discount opportunities for students when applicable. The recommended items are meant as a guide for additional tools to consider as you further your knowledge and interest in music production, but are not required to pursue the CWP major.

Please contact the Contemporary Writing and Production Department at cwp@berklee.edu about any additional hardware and software requirements.