Have you ever thought about what makes DAWless music production different? For me “tactile” was one of the first ones coming to my mind. But there are some more. Let’s explore them.
DAWless music production differences
I have already posted a little guide on DAWless music production and given some more tips later, let’s not spend more time on that topic.
The reason why I post about this topic is about touching, turning on and off, pushing, swiping, swinging, and all the other things one can easily do while being DAWless.
It has been years now since I continuously used PO-33 KO, a simple and budget DAWless instrument. Technically a little sampler that offers me a kind of on-the-go music production experience.
And I enjoy taking it with me, jamming then recording it. Imperfect but on-the-spot sketches, which is like drawing with music to me. I often record some noises around and implement them in the beat.
Difference to MIDI-based instruments – though both tactile
Putting it simply: with DAWless you can leave for the moment. MIDI instruments (I use many including both pads and keys) are also tactile but in a sterile environment. As stated above, a DAWless can be easily and effortlessly taken outside. And it subsequently boosts one’s creativity as well.
Despite being tactile, MIDI instruments are built for in-house use only. Let alone you are to have a laptop as well round the clock to enjoy the full potential.
Mobile applications – not so tactile
On the other, if only mobility matters, you may choose to use your phone only, right? It is. I use Koala Sampler a lot for this purpose. My smartphone is with me around the clock, so why not fully benefit from it?
Even more, from time to time I think about buying a tablet again (I was a happy owner of the old Nexus 7 2013) to produce more beats.
What makes a huge difference here is the lack of any button or slider or anything to boost the production process.
Limitations of DAWlessness
The downside of this music production is simply the mass amount of limitations. Most samplers have their own workflow that is often least intuitive to DAWs. Which requires much more time to own and master.
Furthermore, you need to prepare your sampler for your journey, to have enough (and good) samples and instruments recorded in order to jam.
Many can save a limited amount of patterns and flows, so you need tools as well (minimum your phone and some cables) to record them. I mean, some can store the recorded sessions easily, but then you are going up with the price pretty fast.
And lastly price. We all die of owning a dope MPC, or SP404, but take your time thinking of your dedication before purchasing one. On the other hand, cheaper ones have more limitations in every aspect.
All-in-all they are fun to use and a beautiful way for expressing your musical ideas for your audience. An imperfect but cool way. As stated above, to me producing DAWless is like sketching. I enjoy the touch of the gadget, the tactile-ness so to speak. I embrace the limitations of it and ultimately: live for that moment.
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