Computer

• In the digital music age, the mixing board is no longer the central hub of the recording studio environment. It still plays a vital and invaluable role, but the computer now serves as the key component in recording and mixing. A producer uses computers to capture sound, observe the audio quality, mix and to mix and edit audio tracks (if the producer serves as an engineer).
  
  

Mixing Board

• The mixing board, mixing desk or mixing console, is the image most closely associated with a stereotypical recording studio. With its array of sliders, knobs and buttons, it allows producers and engineers to fine-tune the audio input quality during a recording session. A mixing board allows your producer full control over the audio frequencies (namely the treble, mid and bass frequencies, with their specific numeric values), input volume, and effects.
  
  

Live Instruments

• In addition to serving as an engineer, mentor and overseer, a producer can have a direct hand in the creation of music. Dr. Dre, for instance, is personally involved in writing, recording and developing samples and beats for the artists with whom he works. A producer can record using a MIDI keyboard (connected to a computer or sound module), a sampler, or even traditional instruments like guitars and drums.
  
  

Home Recording Equipment

• The modern digital music producer may house an entire home recording studio for her clients, which of course includes computers and mixing desks, but also monitor speakers, audio cables, effects processors, condenser microphones and perhaps even a custom recording booth. This allows the producer to work with clients without the costly investment and time restrictions of a traditional studio, and also to have the ability to mix and edit at a moment's notice.