Guides
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By The Modwheel Team
Best VST Crossgrades (2026): Cheapest Buy
Loyalty pays. We explain how to use crossgrades (like iZotope or IK Multimedia) to get massive discounts on software.
Read Review →
Last Updated: January 2026
The Composer's Guide to Music Production (2026)
Knowledge is the only gear that doesn't depreciate.
Software updates, but concepts remain. We curated the Best Tutorials and Guides to help you navigate the industry without getting lost in the noise.
Read Full Introduction
The Criteria
We focus on actionable advice:
- Clarity: Is the concept explained simply, without jargon?
- Relevance: Does this apply to modern production workflows?
- Actionable: Can you apply this to your session immediately? your craft, regardless of the tools you use.
Topics Covered
- Orchestration: How to arrange for strings, brass, and percussion.
- Mixing Theory: Understanding the physics of sound.
- Career: Licensing, contracts, and finding work.
Our curated lists below cover the essentials.
Knowledge is the only gear that doesn’t depreciate.
Software updates, but concepts remain. We curated the Best Tutorials and Guides to help you navigate the industry without getting lost in the noise.
The Criteria
We focus on actionable advice:
- Clarity: Is the concept explained simply, without jargon?
- Relevance: Does this apply to modern production workflows?
- Actionable: Can you apply this to your session immediately? your craft, regardless of the tools you use.
Topics Covered
- Orchestration: How to arrange for strings, brass, and percussion.
- Mixing Theory: Understanding the physics of sound.
- Career: Licensing, contracts, and finding work.
Our curated lists below cover the essentials.
Guides
•
By The Modwheel Team
Best 'Bang for Buck' VST Bundles for Producers
Bulk savings. We review the best value bundles (iZotope, Soundtoys) that offer the most plugins for the lowest price per unit.
Read Review →
Guides
•
By The Modwheel Team
Best AAX Plugins for Pro Tools Users (Stability & Workflow)
Rock solid. We review the most stable AAX plugins for Pro Tools users who prioritize reliability in large sessions.
Read Review →
Guides
•
By The Modwheel Team
Best Apple Silicon Native VSTs (M1/M2/M3 Optimized)
Speed up your Mac. We review the best plugins that run natively on Apple Silicon for lightning-fast performance and lower CPU usage.
Read Review →
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I start?
Start with the basics of your DAW and music theory. Don't buy plugins until you hit a wall with stock tools. Learning 'why' is better than learning 'how'.
How to finish tracks?
Commit to audio. Stop tweaking MIDI. Set deadlines. Perfectionism is the enemy of done. A finished B+ track is better than an unfinished A+ loop.
Music Theory necessity?
You don't need to read sheet music, but knowing scales and chords speeds up your workflow 10x. It's the language of music; speaking it helps you communicate your ideas.
Writer's Block?
Change your process. If you start with chords, start with drums. If you use a computer, pick up a guitar. imposed limitations force creativity.
Networking?
Be cool, be reliable, be on time. Your reputation follows you. Collaborate with peers at your level; don't just chase big names.
Ear Training?
Practice identifying intervals and frequencies. Being able to hear 'that snare needs a cut at 400Hz' is a superpower that only comes with practice.