Hi Guys, I’ll try to start with a little overview of the tools needed to make a good mockup.
A mac or pc computer is required, according to your tastes and possibilities, with a processor with 4 cores at least 8 gigabytes of ram to start with. It is also possible to work with dual core and 4 giga (I know ouch) but we will also need a lot of patience. You will understand why later.
Another fundamental component is the software that we will use in our DAW (Digital Audio Workstation), our computer so to speak. You can choose the one you prefer among Logic Pro, Cubase, Pro Tools, Ableton, Reaper etc. It’s just a matter of taste as they all offer the same functions. I work with Logic Pro X but the operations I will describe in the tutorials are easily applicable to other software.
For the sounds to use in your projects we will explore Kontakt by Native Instrument, today for me the best software sampler out there. We will see how to set it up and how to use it to play brass sections or a string quartet.
Finally we will need a midi keyboard, there are all types and prices, but it must have at least a couple of configurable controls such as two sliders, a pitch bend and a modulation wheel. To make you understand if you start now in this world you need a master keyboard with a minimum of 49 keys and midi controls. Those of the m-audio brand are among the best known. If, on the other hand, you already have a piano or a keyboard you can buy a control surface like the korg nano2 that you can take home with 50 euros.
So to finish let’s do a summary. You will need:
A computer,
a DAW software like Logic Pro, Cubase etc ..
Kontakt Player
Keyboard
Control surface
I add a midi interface if you have a keyboard or piano that does not have a USB connection but has midi ports.

In the next article we will go a little deeper into the technical aspect, therefore instrument wiring and configuration.

Greetings for today,
Andrea