To take part in our preparatory programmes, students need a defined equipment setup. In general, everyone needs a computer, laptop or desktop. If you attend in hybrid mode on site, you will need a laptop. If you attend online, you can work with either a laptop or a desktop, depending on your situation.
In addition, a wired studio headphone is required. A pair of studio monitors is ideal, and can also be purchased at a later stage if needed. A MIDI keyboard is recommended to support efficient composition and production work.
Recommended computer
We recommend a Mac with at least an M1 processor, ideally M2, M3 or M4, and at least 16 GB of RAM. 24 GB, 36 GB or more is recommended for larger projects.
Software by programme
Media Music Producer
Pro Tools Studio
Native Instruments Komplete Standard
Notation software: Dorico or Sibelius Ultimate
Film Scoring and Production
Pro Tools Studio
Native Instruments Komplete Standard
Notation software: Dorico or Sibelius Ultimate
Advanced Film Scoring and Production
Cubase Pro
Native Instruments Komplete Standard
Notation software: Dorico or Sibelius Ultimate
In the Bachelor programme, students use essentially the same core setup, with additional libraries on top. High-quality string and orchestral libraries become particularly important, for example Cinematic Studio Strings, Spitfire Audio BBC Symphony Orchestra, or Orchestral Tools. In both the Bachelor and Master programmes, students should expect to invest in further libraries over time, as sound sources are a core part of modern music production.
Software policy
Our recommendations are professional and sustainable. We make sure software choices build on each other, so students do not end up buying tools they cannot use later. In group teaching, compatible setups matter: the goal is to keep discussions and project work centred on composition and production, not on technical differences.
DAWs in the Bachelor
In the Bachelor programme, students can choose their main DAW. We encourage students to become confident in two DAWs during the Bachelor. FL Studio and Ableton Live are excellent specialist tools, but are usually not suitable as a main DAW for the core of the programme. Suitable main DAWs include Cubase Pro, Digital Performer, Logic and Reaper. Pro Tools is required for recording-based projects.
Most software is available at educational pricing.