Hi guys,

I've always wanted to be able to do my own tunes however never sure what software is best to use, or any plugins I should have.

Also what kit would you need alongside. I am able to get hold of midi Keyboard, and if i wanted lyrics a sure SM58 mic.

I think it's an area many people are interested in. Making your own music is so satisfying from my minimal experience.

Thanks for any advice

I just picked up Logic 8 and it is the BOMB! I used Logic 7 previously and am familiar with Reason and Ableton as well. Right now I am a little overwhelmed with the 8, but the potential is amazing! My opinion has always been to go for the gusto when you purchase something like this because in the long run you will probably be happy that you did (rather than upgrading to another platform and having to learn something new in a year or 2) I have friends that do everything in Ableton and they love it too, but from the research I have done it seems Logic has the most to offer. If you have a midi controller and a mic you will no doubt be able to produce some goodness right from the get go, without any plug ins, etc If you have a Mac you can start your projects in Garage Band, which is a little more user friendly, and then import them into Logic if you like for finishing the project.

my 2 cents...
I'd like to hear what everyone else on this board thinks.

This sounds like production thread. Can it be moved, dear moderators?

keep going it will be worth it!

Its easier than you will think! Just different to others

Try using it in live mode! Get some clips warped and try jamming live!

I find it an amazing way to put idea s together

Yes, garage band is really not much but loops. if you are looking for more sounds, synths, manipulation, etc I still think that you can not go wrong with Logic. It will take some time to learn, but the potential is unlike any other program I have ever experimented with. Very happy with my investment

Since you own a MAC already Logic 8 is the way to go.  I used Reason for years, Digital Performer and Logic 8 is an awesome platform.  It has everything you need already to make quality productions, and its fastly becoming an industry standard for many producers out there.  Ableton is a cool program, but I think its secondary to Logics ability, I know lots of guys who use both, but usually sync it up to Logic 8. 

Logic is wonderful,
but right now I'm trying to get my hands on Cubase.
I think I've found a way to do it (I know it works at least for americans ~ they determine stuff based on where you live).

(a) get your hands on cubase le (friends with m-audio hardware should have it)
(b) go to http://www.steinberg.net/1359_1.html
(c) follow the steps and buy the upgrade from le.

http://www.steinbergupgrades.com/
For Cubase Studio 4 the upgrade is only $200, for Cubase 4 it's a mere $400.
The original prices (MSRP), respectively, are $520 and $1040.

I hope someone who reads this will be able to save boat loads of money.

I might add that when you are looking around at set ups, you may want to check out what a few of your favorite producers are using.