I liked your pleasant, conversational style, along with the interesting gear history. I also appreciated the honest reflections regarding how small issues may well need addressing when changing/upgrading systems. I’m considering the Mini seriously at present.
Been loving the informative videos man! It's been extremely helpful for me. I'm also a long-time desktop PC user migrating to an M1 Mac for music production. Funny enough, I bought a refurbished M1 Mac Mini with the exact same specs as yours. So your experience with using the M1 Mac Mini specifically for Ableton + all of the plugin compatibility has been immensely useful. Thanks!
M1 mini is a little beast. I upgraded my old i7 16gb machine with 16gb M1 mini. I'm a Logic user and all my plugins work fine over Rosetta, so switching was a breeze. Projects that used to overload my old system, even over Rosetta, use up only about 30-40% cpu on M1, and it stays absolutely silent. Wonderful for studio/music production.
I’m not going to lie, it was a big deal for me too. Every other Mac I’ve owned hasn’t been able to keep quiet while getting pushed. I’ve found myself working in FCP and simultaneously exporting from Ableton (ADD lol) and it’s just dead silent. So remarkable and impressive.
Shout out to the pettiness warning. I'm a new macOS user and your comments about mouse acceleration, the lack of snapping and rounding on elements are all so on point. The animations too when your moving around the system like the genie animations of things opening is very tacking when I click something I don't want animations, i want it open.
Great video with your honest impressions. We went on a similar Mac journey. I started composing on a white MacBook in college. Over the years I moved to a MacBook Pro, and iMacs as I upgraded. I also went PC for Ableton five years ago because… cost and speed. Gaming was a nice bonus as well. 2020: sold my old pc, working on a novel on my iPad and doing any music on the iPad as well. 2021: picked up the base Mac Mini for under $600. I found the iPad great for sketching ideas and sound design, but once I was printing things to audio and working with automation, the workflow grinds to a halt. Also, huge fan of the K380! Loved it with the iPad, works great on the Mac too. Now I’m just trying to decide between Logic and Ableton upgrade from 9. I got both on trail now. As I’ve spent years using Ableton 9, it’ll likely be my choice. Thanks for the video.
@@MattCitrano 😊 Lemme know if you need any help for Thumbnails/Album Covers. I'll do it for Free. 🙏 Btw, I also have a youtube channel (@itskdn) check it out if you're into Covers 😅
IS 8GB RAM (mac mini M1) ENOUGH FOR MUSIC PRODUCTION ? I USE 15-25 AUDIO AND MIDI INSTRUMENTS (TOGETHER) in reaper, cubase or Logic pro x !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Great video, thanks!, enjoy your approach. Unrelated, slightly, perhaps, but how do you find the Kalis overall. Am in the market for a pair of studio monitors, hence. Thanks again.
I like them significantly more than my Yamaha HS7s, and wish they had existed many years ago. My mixes have improved tremendously with them on hand. The slight hiss initially bothered me, but when placed at a proper distance away, it is difficult to notice. I have a separate video on my channel detailing my experiences with both speakers as well!
@@MattCitrano That’s interesting. I too am planning a similar switch - from Yamaha HS50M to either a pair of Kalis or Focal Alphas. Thanks for the reply. Will check out the other video.
Hi I am a blind music producer and I use voice over as the screen reader and this is going to be my first ever mac. I just want to know if voice over works with a windows keyboard for the commands. And also what monitor would you recommend for the m1 Mac mini
Hi Matt. Cool video. Question: I record with an Apollo and Luna on a late 2013 8G iMac. I not run big projects but I do notice with a session of 8 midi instruments and a vocal or doesn’t like it that much. When use izotope plug ins it even dislike me more. I saw the new hello iMac 8G being released. Would this 8 G be enough for making a song using midi? Drums, instruments and vocals. I’m not recording bands - it’s home recording. Also would 512 be enough? Love t hear your mind on this new iMac
Strangely most impressed about you shooting this video on your iPhone :). Looks great. Your nitpicks on the mac were not about the mac though. All about MacOS really. I guess that's a good sign if you like MacOS as is - no bad notes on the actual hardware.
Absolutely! The hardware has been marvelous. And I like macOS overall! But the M1 as is just blows my mind, and I hope to see an equivalent on the Windows side someday.
Not a bad call! I do experience some small issues here and there at the moment which may be a nuisance in a more paid environment. A great computer though nonetheless!
I have no way of getting a 16GB RAM in my area. It's just not available lol. I'm a beginner and I intend on using this device for as long as I can like 5 years atleast haha. Do you think it's okay to just go for the base model and get an external ssd? I'm also very tight on budget.
Hey mate! How do you manage your vsts libraries? Do you store them on the internal storage? I’m wondering how much internal storage would I need 😅. Thx!
Yes! I just use internal storage. Same for samples. I'm trying to rely on as little external gear as possible which is why I went with the 1TB model. Seems to be plenty with usually 600GB free depending on if/what kinds of videos I'm editing (FCP takes up a lot of storage lol)
@@MattCitrano get an external drive for your editing. You’ll be glad you did. SSD’s and NVME drives are dirt cheap these days and you can always build your own.
Great video and yes the mouse thing is super annoying even happens with my dongled mouse. How are the Kali's and do yo have review video on them? I have Mackies, but plan to upgrade to the Kali's or Yamaha's 5".
I suggest u to use native optimized apps for m1 mac it will blow ur mind what a it’s true power is . Because most of the apps people use are under translation
I’ve been using it with FCP! And Resolve which is coded for M1. It’s genuinely impressive. Ableton performs very well and suits my needs; just seems to be using up extra resources it wouldn’t do otherwise at the moment (also the many plugins which are not yet natively supported)
@@MattCitrano exactly why im holding off. I also want the next generation of M1x chips. I still wont upgrade until my too large collection of plugins have been translated as well as Ableton. Your whinging about Mac Os is pretty petty but there are usually extension programs that help with that. Eventually Apple will steal and add all the things you want. :)
Am considering going from a desktop pc that I’ve invested quite a bit into , to Mac mini…just in the hopes the glitchy, crackly, random and unexplainable issues go away. A few questions…can I utilize both of my 34” ultra wide monitors with the Mac mini? If so, can it accept two DisplayPort connections from those monitors? Imatotal newb with a macs architecture / OS , other than my iPhone …btw, I also have and like those Kali6.5 monitors, in white as well. I’m hoping the audio recording experience improves without all the issues.I’m a little hesitant to give up my pc for certain things though so maybe invest in a kvm switch
The Mac Mini M1 can accept one display up to 6K over Thunderbolt and one display at 4K over HDMI 2.0. So I think your ultrawides should be fine as long as you prepare with the right cables! I understand your hesitancy. Windows still feels like home for me personally, but many of the strange audio-related issues that can happen with drivers are gone on Macs generally. They are not without their own idiosyncrasies, but they perform well as music production workstations!
Great video! Very useful info. BTW I jump between Windows and MacOS all the time and I’m SO glad window snapping is not the same on Mac. To me it’s one of the most annoying features of windows!
I’m about to replace an old built Win PC for music production (Ableton) film editing/graphics. Started out on Macs back in the day, but grew to detest the Apple closed ecosystem and planned obsolescence.. Now I’m considering a M1 Mac / iMac for OS tidiness and things just running smoothly vs building a super PC for less money. How future proof are these new M1’s ? Are there good Windows alternatives to the Mac mini?
totally agree I'm using M1 16gb macbook Air and Ableton 11 runs so smoothly all the 3rd plugins tho except few like Xpand!2 or Iris from Izotpe but other then that I'm Amazed in this little laptop can be so powerful so I can create and share my stuff everywhere I'm and I'm also new to Mac ecosystem I was PC head but no regrets so far 😅
Great video. I also use GGD and Neural DSP (which I saw you’ve successfully used). Can you recommend a decent but budget friend small midi Keyboard that js compatible? I am doing a Plini meets Pink Floyd style project next and want to start incorporating some keys. I’m afraid of buying something that won’t be compatible. Thanks for your time
I would think most smaller MIDI keyboards would be just fine. I would double-check driver compatibility if there are specific models with software-dependent features you are looking for. Otherwise I wouldn’t see any reason for issue. I use my Casio PX-160 as my primary “midi controller” and it performs just fine. I have also used my Nektar GK61 and it is also just fine.
Hi. So i'm thinking on buying a Mac Mini M1 for using Ableton live 10, but I'm not sure if it'll be the right choice since I don't know if any of my go-to plugins are available on that system, these are the plugins I intend to use: U-he Tyrell n6, PG 8X, Surge, Valhalla vintage reverb, Izotope Vinyl, Spitfire Audio Labs, Wider, Serum. Has someone had experiences with any of these plugins on a M1 Mac so far? Also i've read that the best way to do it is by using Rosetta 2, but i've read that Rosetta can damage the ssd of an M1 so i don't know what to do. Also idk if the compatibility problems have to be with m1 or the OS big sur. Any help would be appreciated
For Vinyl, Spitfire LABS, Wider, and Serum, those are all working for me (I have a follow-up video showing Serum and Wider). I’m not sure I’ve seen anything on Rosetta damaging the SSD but swap memory usage in general was causing concern for a while before an update made that cool down a bit. Big Sur may have slight compatibility issues with certain software but most issues will be related to the M1 as it is a significantly larger leap away from normal than the OS.
@@pimentocheese618 Overall I'm very happy with my M1 Mini. My only gripes are software-related and even that is moreso just related to personal preference with what I'm most comfortable with. It's an incredible machine and I definitely think the primary companies involved with manufacturing components have some serious catching up to do. Especially given the cost of PC components, I would recommend the M1 for right now.
@@MattCitrano How is that last thing about "price of pc components"? 'cause i was thinking of building a windows pc whose components are supposedly cheaper
@@pimentocheese618 I suppose the main problem lies with if you were thinking of getting a dedicated graphics card at all; they are abnormally expensive at the moment, often sold for twice the MSRP. Other components I don’t think are nearly as bad but supply still seems lower than usual.
I was thinking of getting the 8gb model due to price. Would it be ok for recording garageband/logic? I only do recordings for like a hobbie, not serious and would use about 6-8 tracks per song. Would it be enough?
Ah yes, finally a video I can relate to. Long time Windows user switching to a Mac mini for music purposes. On that note, why do people bother with MacBooks for music production? I don't get it, they cost 30% more for a smaller screen, less ports and the exact same specs!!
I think for mobile users it’s just a more convenient solution overall. But I feel the same way regarding my own priorities. I overall feel more control and flexibility with the Mac mini than any other Mac I’ve owned which inspires me to keep it for much longer than I did the many others I owned previously.
@@MattCitrano And it's easier to keep it for much longer. Just shove it onto some shelf above your desk. OK Airflow, no risk of spilling coffee in it, no screen or fragile keyboard that could break. Notebooks are just harder to keep an eye on, and once your warranty runs out then you are a bit screwed... And in any case this Mac is still ultra portable for a powerful desktop computer. You can just carry a small wireless keyboard and plug it into any monitor, or heck, even buy a portable monitor from the money you saved buying a Mini rather than a MacBook!
@@pokszymon Laptop is 100% for portability. You can plug it in to your home studio, then take your files with you somewhere else to work on your project. People who get laptops want them for portability. Unpacking a desk top computer, even a tiny one and then taking it somewhere else and finding a monitor etc isn’t going to be nearly as easy.
@@steviesevieria1868 My point is most RUclipsrs I see never bother to move their laptop anywhere outside their home on a regular basis. And MacBooks are always way more popular than Mac Minis despite a big part of users not really utilizing the portability factor
Just came across this. Your what I'll call "PC user complaints" aren't the worst, but basically when people move from one to another either way, the complaints are basically "Why doesn't this have the features I love about my previous machine?" I don't quite get why the developers are so slow to support new OS and hardware types. Some companies are STILL selling firewire hardware.
I have a separate video which shows them running more clearly, but so far I do have an issue with NeuralDSP from time to time. Every once in a while (I haven't found a pattern yet), one of the plugins will cause some kind of shrieking white noise that won't stop until you close out Ableton (closing out the plugin itself doesn't seem to help). That is not very common but something I am still currently on edge about lol.
if you play some Virtual instruments as a test Okay but I have Apple too n 1 16 GB 2 Tera The problem is that after the twentieth Virtual instrument the computer has problems when opening a project where there are 20 to 30 Virtual instrument many instruments do not load you have to open for example Contact where there is the instrument play the instrument and after Activate the track there is still a lot to do you must absolutely use logic under Rosetta and all the Virtual Instruments but this takes away capacity to the computer to be able to make calculations more instantaneously until there is the possibility that the Virtual Instruments are native there will always be these problems and certainly it is much better to work with Intel until all this ends so no matter the power 'emme one but what compatibility with the rest thanks
It depends on your layout/port preference! I don’t like being locked into one screen, even if it is an incredible one. I also rather enjoy having USB-A ports for convenience (many audio-related equipment still uses it). That and I can just throw the Mini into a backpack if I ever need to. So for me, I much prefer the Mini for flexibility reasons. Both will be great!
Yes, so far! I have yet to test it with an enormous session as I don’t have anything that spans past maybe 20-30 tracks when it comes to orchestral projects. As I mention, the RAM usage is a bit higher than normal due to translation. That’s about the only thing to be wary of at the moment (some projects which only utilized maybe 4-5GB of RAM on my MacBook or PC are utilizing closer to 7-8ish). The more non-native plugins being run, the more translating is necessary as well.
I had found this solution as well but was still having trouble with certain folders (like if one of the nested folders had files in common with a nested folder of the same name if I remember correctly). Thank you for pointing this out. Not sure why they would require a shortcut just to reveal that option.
Levels may have been a bit low! This was my first time editing with FCP and some of the audio leveling isn’t as straightforward (to me at least) as in Davinci Resolve.
Mac Mini is going to be slightly better performing if doing sustained high-intensity tasks (MacBook Air does not have a cooling fan). However, the Mac Mini isn't as portable as the Air, so if portability/the ability to work in a coffee shop is important to you, I would pick up the Air.
@@MattCitrano “sustained high intensity tasks”, and with 8gb ram? I know you said at the end to go with the 16 GB, but for home hobby music production set up do you think the 8 go can get by?
@@steviesevieria1868 with how great the M1 overall is, it would definitely be a better time to pick a MBA up for music production than ever before (especially if your main DAW will be Logic). I think for hobby music production stuff it will probably be great. You may run into resource issues occasionally, but not nearly as badly as in the past (previous MacBook Airs are not even close to the performance of the current generation).
The mouse menu in Big Sur allows you to adjust Tracking Speed, Scrolling Speed, Double-Click Speed, Primary mouse button, and Scroll Direction. Mouse Acceleration is not included.
Great video! Honestly most of your petty complaints were reasonable (except the mouse acceleration one, that was EXTREMELY petty, haha). Window snapping/tiling should have been in the OS for the past ten years IMO. Font rendering definitely looked better in earlier version of macOS. Also, I've seen some people have been having bluetooth issues here and there, so you're not alone. I get people have opinions about the design elements, but man. People focus too much on this stuff sometimes (not saying you did since you spent less than 30 seconds on it). It's especially bad on Apple-related forums, like the look or the color absolutely ruins their experience, like with the new iMacs. Personally, I ask myself, "Does it work without error?" The look of buttons or corners or colors does not matter so long as they aren't distracting. That's just me. Overall, great video!
Yeah I tried to not be too unreasonable with the complaints haha. The mouse acceleration bothered me most just cause when you’re not used to it, it feels like the mouse is teasing you in a way, always just shy of where you’re trying to click (and I have some wrist problems that can get irritated as a result). Overall I love the stability and I’m thankful for the third parties who make things like window snapping possible for now. Thank you for your comment and for watching!
I will make my first step into recording music. I would like to record guitar and voice only. I really have no idea how much processor & graphic power you need for recording instruments. I will only record 2-4 tracks at a time. You got advise if the new M1 Mac Mini will be good enough for that? Because the price difference I hope the 8gb ram will be enough?
In that situation I think the M1 Mac Mini will be excellent, and the 8GB base model would be a good fit for taking that first step. Generally graphic power is pretty low on the concern list for music, but the M1 has quite a good bit of it, especially for being so small. Processing power is easily #1 priority, but RAM and SSD are both close behind.
Great Video, very informative. I'm pretty amateur at music production so I stuck with the 8gb since I use Logic and just samples mostly. I was using a 2018 Mac Mini intel based and it worked well for everything, but Logic would bogged down, especially with the Atmos update. M1 is opening Logic in times I had never seen. Very snappy machine and even compared to my old Mac Mini this thing is whisper quiet. I also had an external small fan blowing on the old Mini to keep it cool. Enjoyed the video very much. Keep up the great work!
I would get it now... but for me, it is super time consuming to get the new machine to make me feel at home as the old one..... and to change plugins and software licenses from one to another..... uuugghhh!!! I have CCC, and also redundant backUp, also time machine.... nevertheless, when I "restore" my old machine into the new one... not always everything is passed on, and this time, coming from an i9 Intel.... to M1... impossible to try and "restore" the old machine and its settings into.
I feel you on that. Honestly I had a lot of growing pains going from my PC to the Mini, with familiarity as well as just transferring hella files and plugins/licenses. I would wait to buy one until you feel very compelled and that the decision will be worth it (it was for me). We may be seeing some even more powerful machines from the big 🍎 this summer too 😈
@@MattCitrano yes, I'll do that exactly, there are many rummors of the not so distant upgraded one and more compatible. Very informative and useful to me your video, thanks! 👍 👍
I’m currently using an LG 27UK670. Not bad but in think there are probably better options out there for the price unless you luck out (mine was on sale)
Wait ?...Nope.... I wanted to get a feel for my workflow with the new M1..... Now, I am like "who gives a sh!t" ..... that sucker is fast !!! ...... and I still find it hard to believe that this will be the S-l-o-w-e-s-t new Mac...that's Kray-kray !!!
Yes, specifically the Minis seem to have a history of shotty Bluetooth connection which is very unfortunate and annoying given that the likelihood of using some kind of external mouse/keyboard is 100%.
I like the new Air! The port selection, versatility, and power is just better for me with the Mini, and I have zero need for a laptop now that I work from home. Fanless is a huge draw on it! The Mini is quiet enough even with a fan that I'm sold.
If you saw how much of a mess my space can be, you wouldn’t think so! Haha. But I know I can be very particular about certain things. Glad you enjoyed it!
Sorry but this is not a very well-informed comment. Many people use third-party peripherals with Macs without significant issue (and you'll catch me dead before I use the ergonomic disaster that is the Magic Mouse). Also, the issues I was having with bluetooth connectivity and mouse acceleration have nothing to do with using third-party peripherals; bluetooth issues have unfortunately been characteristic of the Mac Mini for years. Mouse acceleration is part of the OS and is likely there to help with trackpad usage. It just bothered me significantly and I wanted to remove it. I hope that clarifies some things.
Isolate any and all computers from your control room and microphones. Regardless. Period. Run cable through a hole in the wall? 😊 Here we are in 2024 and M1 is still valid. More so than M3 cores.😮
![ARGENTINA vs. BOLIVIA [6-0] | RESUMEN | ELIMINATORIAS SUDAMERICANAS | FECHA 10](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/C3wPtKNbAOA/mqdefault.jpg)
I liked your pleasant, conversational style, along with the interesting gear history. I also appreciated the honest reflections regarding how small issues may well need addressing when changing/upgrading systems. I’m considering the Mini seriously at present.
Been loving the informative videos man! It's been extremely helpful for me. I'm also a long-time desktop PC user migrating to an M1 Mac for music production. Funny enough, I bought a refurbished M1 Mac Mini with the exact same specs as yours. So your experience with using the M1 Mac Mini specifically for Ableton + all of the plugin compatibility has been immensely useful. Thanks!
I’m so happy to hear you found it useful! And I hope you enjoy your new Mac. It’s definitely been a tiny, quiet powerhouse for me!
M1 mini is a little beast. I upgraded my old i7 16gb machine with 16gb M1 mini. I'm a Logic user and all my plugins work fine over Rosetta, so switching was a breeze. Projects that used to overload my old system, even over Rosetta, use up only about 30-40% cpu on M1, and it stays absolutely silent. Wonderful for studio/music production.
Very happy to hear that! It’s quite remarkable, especially knowing this is only the beginning for these CPUs!
Noise is actually the only reason I bought the m1 😁❤️ I just couldn't handle the noise from my laptop anymore. I love the M1
I’m not going to lie, it was a big deal for me too. Every other Mac I’ve owned hasn’t been able to keep quiet while getting pushed. I’ve found myself working in FCP and simultaneously exporting from Ableton (ADD lol) and it’s just dead silent. So remarkable and impressive.
Yup. Noise. That's why I can't using my PC to product and master music. I got the M1 macbook air, but my next purchase is macmini m1.
What MacBook was causing a lot of noise ? That you have ?
Shout out to the pettiness warning.
I'm a new macOS user and your comments about mouse acceleration, the lack of snapping and rounding on elements are all so on point. The animations too when your moving around the system like the genie animations of things opening is very tacking when I click something I don't want animations, i want it open.
I totally agree with you about the mouse accelleration and the absence of tile snapping windows, which Windows 7 figured out in 2009.
Great video with your honest impressions.
We went on a similar Mac journey. I started composing on a white MacBook in college. Over the years I moved to a MacBook Pro, and iMacs as I upgraded.
I also went PC for Ableton five years ago because… cost and speed. Gaming was a nice bonus as well.
2020: sold my old pc, working on a novel on my iPad and doing any music on the iPad as well.
2021: picked up the base Mac Mini for under $600.
I found the iPad great for sketching ideas and sound design, but once I was printing things to audio and working with automation, the workflow grinds to a halt.
Also, huge fan of the K380! Loved it with the iPad, works great on the Mac too.
Now I’m just trying to decide between Logic and Ableton upgrade from 9. I got both on trail now. As I’ve spent years using Ableton 9, it’ll likely be my choice.
Thanks for the video.
Thanks for the links in the description … i didn’t know fixing these mac annoyances was possible!
Keep up the good work brother. Honestly loved the way you talk.
Thank you very much! I’m glad you enjoyed my talking haha
@@MattCitrano 😊 Lemme know if you need any help for Thumbnails/Album Covers. I'll do it for Free. 🙏
Btw, I also have a youtube channel (@itskdn) check it out if you're into Covers 😅
that´s some studio you got there. amazing.
IS 8GB RAM (mac mini M1) ENOUGH FOR MUSIC PRODUCTION ?
I USE 15-25 AUDIO AND MIDI INSTRUMENTS (TOGETHER) in reaper, cubase or Logic pro x !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Such a great informative, funny, entertaining review!
Thank you Abraham!! I’m very glad you enjoyed it.
Very informative and helpful. Thank you for putting it together.
Great video, thanks! What monitor are you using?
It’s an LG 27UK670! My first 4K IPS monitor. I like it but I’d like to upgrade to a 32” soon cause I’m blind 😂
Really good video and channel. I have ordered a 16GB 1TB mini. Are you running samples of the internal ssd? Did you partition or add volume?
Thank you Russ! I’m running everything off the internal SSD, although I plan to get an external SSD eventually for video editing in particular.
@@MattCitrano thanks for letting me know.
Thank you so much Matt!
Your video was very helpful and comprehensive. Keep up the Great work!!:)
If I used my focusrite with the Mac mini would it work fine and I should be able to make music?
I dunno if it's been said - to Merge files/folders you have to hold Option
It does not always work, unfortunately… never understood why.
Very helpful. Even the petty stuff. Thank you
Great video, thanks!, enjoy your approach. Unrelated, slightly, perhaps, but how do you find the Kalis overall. Am in the market for a pair of studio monitors, hence. Thanks again.
I like them significantly more than my Yamaha HS7s, and wish they had existed many years ago. My mixes have improved tremendously with them on hand.
The slight hiss initially bothered me, but when placed at a proper distance away, it is difficult to notice. I have a separate video on my channel detailing my experiences with both speakers as well!
@@MattCitrano That’s interesting. I too am planning a similar switch - from Yamaha HS50M to either a pair of Kalis or Focal Alphas. Thanks for the reply. Will check out the other video.
Hi I am a blind music producer and I use voice over as the screen reader and this is going to be my first ever mac.
I just want to know if voice over works with a windows keyboard for the commands.
And also what monitor would you recommend for the m1 Mac mini
Hi Matt. Cool video. Question: I record with an Apollo and Luna on a late 2013 8G iMac. I not run big projects but I do notice with a session of 8 midi instruments and a vocal or doesn’t like it that much. When use izotope plug ins it even dislike me more. I saw the new hello iMac 8G being released. Would this 8 G be enough for making a song using midi? Drums, instruments and vocals. I’m not recording bands - it’s home recording. Also would 512 be enough? Love t hear your mind on this new iMac
Strangely most impressed about you shooting this video on your iPhone :). Looks great. Your nitpicks on the mac were not about the mac though. All about MacOS really. I guess that's a good sign if you like MacOS as is - no bad notes on the actual hardware.
Absolutely! The hardware has been marvelous. And I like macOS overall! But the M1 as is just blows my mind, and I hope to see an equivalent on the Windows side someday.
Thanks for the Snap Tool advice!
Thanks brother I own a recording studio in South Africa and was thinking of doing the switch I will wait. Regards Matthew
Not a bad call! I do experience some small issues here and there at the moment which may be a nuisance in a more paid environment. A great computer though nonetheless!
I have no way of getting a 16GB RAM in my area. It's just not available lol. I'm a beginner and I intend on using this device for as long as I can like 5 years atleast haha. Do you think it's okay to just go for the base model and get an external ssd? I'm also very tight on budget.
Hey mate! How do you manage your vsts libraries? Do you store them on the internal storage? I’m wondering how much internal storage would I need 😅. Thx!
Yes! I just use internal storage. Same for samples. I'm trying to rely on as little external gear as possible which is why I went with the 1TB model. Seems to be plenty with usually 600GB free depending on if/what kinds of videos I'm editing (FCP takes up a lot of storage lol)
@@MattCitrano get an external drive for your editing. You’ll be glad you did. SSD’s and NVME drives are dirt cheap these days and you can always build your own.
Great video and yes the mouse thing is super annoying even happens with my dongled mouse. How are the Kali's and do yo have review video on them? I have Mackies, but plan to upgrade to the Kali's or Yamaha's 5".
It’s very funny you should ask about the Kalis’ That’s the next video I’m currently working on :) should be out by next Monday!
@@MattCitrano Nice.Look forward to it.
Thanks for the review! Very informative.
Thanks for watching, Lumios! I’m glad you liked it.
I suggest u to use native optimized apps for m1 mac it will blow ur mind what a it’s true power is . Because most of the apps people use are under translation
I’ve been using it with FCP! And Resolve which is coded for M1. It’s genuinely impressive. Ableton performs very well and suits my needs; just seems to be using up extra resources it wouldn’t do otherwise at the moment (also the many plugins which are not yet natively supported)
@@MattCitrano exactly why im holding off. I also want the next generation of M1x chips. I still wont upgrade until my too large collection of plugins have been translated as well as Ableton. Your whinging about Mac Os is pretty petty but there are usually extension programs that help with that. Eventually Apple will steal and add all the things you want. :)
Am considering going from a desktop pc that I’ve invested quite a bit into , to Mac mini…just in the hopes the glitchy, crackly, random and unexplainable issues go away. A few questions…can I utilize both of my 34” ultra wide monitors with the Mac mini? If so, can it accept two DisplayPort connections from those monitors? Imatotal newb with a macs architecture / OS , other than my iPhone …btw, I also have and like those Kali6.5 monitors, in white as well. I’m hoping the audio recording experience improves without all the issues.I’m a little hesitant to give up my pc for certain things though so maybe invest in a kvm switch
The Mac Mini M1 can accept one display up to 6K over Thunderbolt and one display at 4K over HDMI 2.0. So I think your ultrawides should be fine as long as you prepare with the right cables!
I understand your hesitancy. Windows still feels like home for me personally, but many of the strange audio-related issues that can happen with drivers are gone on Macs generally. They are not without their own idiosyncrasies, but they perform well as music production workstations!
Excellent review. Thanks
Thank you for sharing your opinion.
Cheers
Which Ethernet speed required for music production ? 10 gigabit or else 1 gigabit??
Great video! Very useful info.
BTW I jump between Windows and MacOS all the time and I’m SO glad window snapping is not the same on Mac. To me it’s one of the most annoying features of windows!
I’m about to replace an old built Win PC for music production (Ableton) film editing/graphics. Started out on Macs back in the day, but grew to detest the Apple closed ecosystem and planned obsolescence.. Now I’m considering a M1 Mac / iMac for OS tidiness and things just running smoothly vs building a super PC for less money. How future proof are these new M1’s ? Are there good Windows alternatives to the Mac mini?
Regarding the BT Mouse, ended up going back to a wired mouse. Definitely love how quiet it is.
totally agree I'm using M1 16gb macbook Air and Ableton 11 runs so smoothly all the 3rd plugins tho except few like Xpand!2 or Iris from Izotpe but other then that I'm Amazed in this little laptop can be so powerful so I can create and share my stuff everywhere I'm and I'm also new to Mac ecosystem I was PC head but no regrets so far 😅
What do you mean about Xpand and Iris not being smooth more exactly? I have both and planing in buying a M1 laptop.... Thank you!
now which model u use bro?? wats the ram
The pettiness warning got me 😂
Haha I had to give an adequate notice!
This video rules thanks so much
Great video. I also use GGD and Neural DSP (which I saw you’ve successfully used). Can you recommend a decent but budget friend small midi Keyboard that js compatible? I am doing a Plini meets Pink Floyd style project next and want to start incorporating some keys. I’m afraid of buying something that won’t be compatible. Thanks for your time
I would think most smaller MIDI keyboards would be just fine. I would double-check driver compatibility if there are specific models with software-dependent features you are looking for. Otherwise I wouldn’t see any reason for issue.
I use my Casio PX-160 as my primary “midi controller” and it performs just fine. I have also used my Nektar GK61 and it is also just fine.
@@MattCitrano just bought a Arturia Minilab today so hopefully I have no issues with it.
Please tell me that UMC1820 interface works fine with the M1 Mac Mini and Ableton Live (or Bitwig).
It does! It works perfectly fine.
@@MattCitrano Great news, thanks!
Windows snapping is available on Mac . You long click the green full screen button and it gives you the option of doing it.
I’m learning so much! Thanks for this. I think I prefer the way third-party apps handle it but I’m glad to know there is a built-in function for it!
@@MattCitrano An app called Magnet will solve all of your problems.
@@binkez Yes!! I had a friend who mentioned it to me afterwards. I still enjoy the 3rd party solution I use now, but Magnet looks fantastic.
thanks for the video, fun and entertaining and informative
Thank you Marcus! I’m glad you enjoyed it.
Very useful video, thanks
I’m happy you found it helpful. Thanks for watching!
This was so helpful ❤️💯
I’m so glad you found it helpful Karnx!
Brother is 8 gb variant is enough for music production?
Nice video
Hi. So i'm thinking on buying a Mac Mini M1 for using Ableton live 10, but I'm not sure if it'll be the right choice since I don't know if any of my go-to plugins are available on that system, these are the plugins I intend to use: U-he Tyrell n6, PG 8X, Surge, Valhalla vintage reverb, Izotope Vinyl, Spitfire Audio Labs, Wider, Serum. Has someone had experiences with any of these plugins on a M1 Mac so far? Also i've read that the best way to do it is by using Rosetta 2, but i've read that Rosetta can damage the ssd of an M1 so i don't know what to do. Also idk if the compatibility problems have to be with m1 or the OS big sur. Any help would be appreciated
For Vinyl, Spitfire LABS, Wider, and Serum, those are all working for me (I have a follow-up video showing Serum and Wider).
I’m not sure I’ve seen anything on Rosetta damaging the SSD but swap memory usage in general was causing concern for a while before an update made that cool down a bit.
Big Sur may have slight compatibility issues with certain software but most issues will be related to the M1 as it is a significantly larger leap away from normal than the OS.
@@MattCitrano thanks for the response! :) So do you recommend me buying an m1 or should i get another pc while m1 is resolving it's issues?
@@pimentocheese618 Overall I'm very happy with my M1 Mini. My only gripes are software-related and even that is moreso just related to personal preference with what I'm most comfortable with.
It's an incredible machine and I definitely think the primary companies involved with manufacturing components have some serious catching up to do. Especially given the cost of PC components, I would recommend the M1 for right now.
@@MattCitrano How is that last thing about "price of pc components"? 'cause i was thinking of building a windows pc whose components are supposedly cheaper
@@pimentocheese618 I suppose the main problem lies with if you were thinking of getting a dedicated graphics card at all; they are abnormally expensive at the moment, often sold for twice the MSRP. Other components I don’t think are nearly as bad but supply still seems lower than usual.
I was thinking of getting the 8gb model due to price. Would it be ok for recording garageband/logic? I only do recordings for like a hobbie, not serious and would use about 6-8 tracks per song. Would it be enough?
No problem with your work load, bump up the memory at least to 512gb.
Ah yes, finally a video I can relate to. Long time Windows user switching to a Mac mini for music purposes. On that note, why do people bother with MacBooks for music production? I don't get it, they cost 30% more for a smaller screen, less ports and the exact same specs!!
I think for mobile users it’s just a more convenient solution overall. But I feel the same way regarding my own priorities. I overall feel more control and flexibility with the Mac mini than any other Mac I’ve owned which inspires me to keep it for much longer than I did the many others I owned previously.
@@MattCitrano And it's easier to keep it for much longer. Just shove it onto some shelf above your desk. OK Airflow, no risk of spilling coffee in it, no screen or fragile keyboard that could break. Notebooks are just harder to keep an eye on, and once your warranty runs out then you are a bit screwed... And in any case this Mac is still ultra portable for a powerful desktop computer. You can just carry a small wireless keyboard and plug it into any monitor, or heck, even buy a portable monitor from the money you saved buying a Mini rather than a MacBook!
@@pokszymon Laptop is 100% for portability. You can plug it in to your home studio, then take your files with you somewhere else to work on your project. People who get laptops want them for portability. Unpacking a desk top computer, even a tiny one and then taking it somewhere else and finding a monitor etc isn’t going to be nearly as easy.
@@steviesevieria1868 My point is most RUclipsrs I see never bother to move their laptop anywhere outside their home on a regular basis. And MacBooks are always way more popular than Mac Minis despite a big part of users not really utilizing the portability factor
Love the PEW News hat. That’s king shit 👑
😤
Can anyone tell me NI KOMPLETE 13 will it all work now with a Mac mini m1?
Just came across this. Your what I'll call "PC user complaints" aren't the worst, but basically when people move from one to another either way, the complaints are basically "Why doesn't this have the features I love about my previous machine?"
I don't quite get why the developers are so slow to support new OS and hardware types. Some companies are STILL selling firewire hardware.
So no issues with GGD and neural DSP?
I have a separate video which shows them running more clearly, but so far I do have an issue with NeuralDSP from time to time. Every once in a while (I haven't found a pattern yet), one of the plugins will cause some kind of shrieking white noise that won't stop until you close out Ableton (closing out the plugin itself doesn't seem to help). That is not very common but something I am still currently on edge about lol.
@@MattCitrano sorry I saw the video after I posted the comment. Okay that seems fair enough for a non native plug-in.
Window snapping cannot be built in. Microsoft has a patent on it. I did miss it when I switched so I started using Magnet and it works really well.
Thank you for the info! Another friend mentioned Magnet as well.
if you play some Virtual instruments as a test Okay but I have Apple too n 1 16 GB 2 Tera The problem is that after the twentieth Virtual instrument the computer has problems when opening a project where there are 20 to 30 Virtual instrument many instruments do not load you have to open for example Contact where there is the instrument play the instrument and after Activate the track there is still a lot to do you must absolutely use logic under Rosetta and all the Virtual Instruments but this takes away capacity to the computer to be able to make calculations more instantaneously until there is the possibility that the Virtual Instruments are native there will always be these problems and certainly it is much better to work with Intel until all this ends so no matter the power 'emme one but what compatibility with the rest thanks
I had same mouse problem with same Mac Mini M1 and Magic Mouse. Went to Logitech usb mouse which works fine.
Had one and returned due to problems waking monitor from sleep and unable to function with the audio interface.
Which interface? I use my twin x exclusively so huuuuge deal for me if I’m gonna get problems if I switch
Do u recommend the Mac mini or the iMac for music production
It depends on your layout/port preference! I don’t like being locked into one screen, even if it is an incredible one. I also rather enjoy having USB-A ports for convenience (many audio-related equipment still uses it). That and I can just throw the Mini into a backpack if I ever need to. So for me, I much prefer the Mini for flexibility reasons.
Both will be great!
m1 16GB can handle orchestral plugins like kontakt 6 native instruments and spitfire??
Yes, so far! I have yet to test it with an enormous session as I don’t have anything that spans past maybe 20-30 tracks when it comes to orchestral projects. As I mention, the RAM usage is a bit higher than normal due to translation. That’s about the only thing to be wary of at the moment (some projects which only utilized maybe 4-5GB of RAM on my MacBook or PC are utilizing closer to 7-8ish). The more non-native plugins being run, the more translating is necessary as well.
@@MattCitrano i see..so this means that m1 chip is more powerful than high specs intel core...wow
When you mentioned merging files in finder when you see the pop-up then hold alt (option) key and it should reveal new options like skip
I had found this solution as well but was still having trouble with certain folders (like if one of the nested folders had files in common with a nested folder of the same name if I remember correctly). Thank you for pointing this out. Not sure why they would require a shortcut just to reveal that option.
The Behringer XM8500 sounds great here.
It’s incredible for the price!
Hey, the sound on this vid its kind odd to me, i usually listen to utube with 30% volume, but this one only became clear at 50% =)
Levels may have been a bit low! This was my first time editing with FCP and some of the audio leveling isn’t as straightforward (to me at least) as in Davinci Resolve.
@@MattCitrano Sure, it happens! Now cut the cap indoors, im sure yo mama would agree with me XD
Should I go for 512gb 8gb ram macbook air or Mac mini with same specs?
Please suggest me I'm confused.
Mac Mini is going to be slightly better performing if doing sustained high-intensity tasks (MacBook Air does not have a cooling fan). However, the Mac Mini isn't as portable as the Air, so if portability/the ability to work in a coffee shop is important to you, I would pick up the Air.
@@MattCitrano “sustained high intensity tasks”, and with 8gb ram? I know you said at the end to go with the 16 GB, but for home hobby music production set up do you think the 8 go can get by?
@@steviesevieria1868 with how great the M1 overall is, it would definitely be a better time to pick a MBA up for music production than ever before (especially if your main DAW will be Logic).
I think for hobby music production stuff it will probably be great. You may run into resource issues occasionally, but not nearly as badly as in the past (previous MacBook Airs are not even close to the performance of the current generation).
That errant mouse tracking issue can be fixed by going to the mouse menu in the System Preferences. No terminal commands required.
The mouse menu in Big Sur allows you to adjust Tracking Speed, Scrolling Speed, Double-Click Speed, Primary mouse button, and Scroll Direction. Mouse Acceleration is not included.
Thanks for this!
Thank you for watching!
Hearing the blood in my fricken ears … gold
Great video!
Honestly most of your petty complaints were reasonable (except the mouse acceleration one, that was EXTREMELY petty, haha). Window snapping/tiling should have been in the OS for the past ten years IMO. Font rendering definitely looked better in earlier version of macOS. Also, I've seen some people have been having bluetooth issues here and there, so you're not alone.
I get people have opinions about the design elements, but man. People focus too much on this stuff sometimes (not saying you did since you spent less than 30 seconds on it). It's especially bad on Apple-related forums, like the look or the color absolutely ruins their experience, like with the new iMacs. Personally, I ask myself, "Does it work without error?" The look of buttons or corners or colors does not matter so long as they aren't distracting. That's just me.
Overall, great video!
Yeah I tried to not be too unreasonable with the complaints haha. The mouse acceleration bothered me most just cause when you’re not used to it, it feels like the mouse is teasing you in a way, always just shy of where you’re trying to click (and I have some wrist problems that can get irritated as a result).
Overall I love the stability and I’m thankful for the third parties who make things like window snapping possible for now.
Thank you for your comment and for watching!
I will make my first step into recording music. I would like to record guitar and voice only. I really have no idea how much processor & graphic power you need for recording instruments. I will only record 2-4 tracks at a time. You got advise if the new M1 Mac Mini will be good enough for that? Because the price difference I hope the 8gb ram will be enough?
In that situation I think the M1 Mac Mini will be excellent, and the 8GB base model would be a good fit for taking that first step.
Generally graphic power is pretty low on the concern list for music, but the M1 has quite a good bit of it, especially for being so small. Processing power is easily #1 priority, but RAM and SSD are both close behind.
Great Video, very informative. I'm pretty amateur at music production so I stuck with the 8gb since I use Logic and just samples mostly. I was using a 2018 Mac Mini intel based and it worked well for everything, but Logic would bogged down, especially with the Atmos update. M1 is opening Logic in times I had never seen. Very snappy machine and even compared to my old Mac Mini this thing is whisper quiet. I also had an external small fan blowing on the old Mini to keep it cool. Enjoyed the video very much. Keep up the great work!
I would get it now... but for me, it is super time consuming to get the new machine to make me feel at home as the old one..... and to change plugins and software licenses from one to another..... uuugghhh!!!
I have CCC, and also redundant backUp, also time machine.... nevertheless, when I "restore" my old machine into the new one... not always everything is passed on, and this time, coming from an i9 Intel.... to M1... impossible to try and "restore" the old machine and its settings into.
I feel you on that. Honestly I had a lot of growing pains going from my PC to the Mini, with familiarity as well as just transferring hella files and plugins/licenses.
I would wait to buy one until you feel very compelled and that the decision will be worth it (it was for me). We may be seeing some even more powerful machines from the big 🍎 this summer too 😈
@@MattCitrano yes, I'll do that exactly, there are many rummors of the not so distant upgraded one and more compatible. Very informative and useful to me your video, thanks! 👍 👍
Great video 👌
so Mac do have a build in feature for screen snipping
Which screen monitor do you use?
I’m currently using an LG 27UK670. Not bad but in think there are probably better options out there for the price unless you luck out (mine was on sale)
@@MattCitrano Thank you!
Shout out to the lagom painting
Yes!! Inte för mycket och inte för lite :)
Wait ?...Nope.... I wanted to get a feel for my workflow with the new M1..... Now, I am like "who gives a sh!t" ..... that sucker is fast !!! ...... and I still find it hard to believe that this will be the S-l-o-w-e-s-t new Mac...that's Kray-kray !!!
It is pretty cray! I can’t wait to see what the rest of the lineup will look like in both aesthetics and performance.
Bro just imagine how fast the m1x or m2 will be
I know man. I hate to say it but if they come out with a Mini with one of those inside imma be thinking about it real hard lol
I think it's a mac mini thing... have a 2018 Mac Mini with a Bluetooth 3rd party keyboard and mouse and the Bluetooth is dookie..
Yes, specifically the Minis seem to have a history of shotty Bluetooth connection which is very unfortunate and annoying given that the likelihood of using some kind of external mouse/keyboard is 100%.
Thanks bro
tyyy
Thanks. Update?
I'm surprise you didn't get the Air. I always disliked apple, but fanless is
I like the new Air! The port selection, versatility, and power is just better for me with the Mini, and I have zero need for a laptop now that I work from home. Fanless is a huge draw on it! The Mini is quiet enough even with a fan that I'm sold.
Bless
Use Reaper. It uses all cores and efficiencies and very small on your system. Your software does not
My 2011 MacBook Pro 15” also died. Never bought another.
👍🏾
Mac mini brought me stayed for wolf background lol
Dude you’re OCD.
But thanks for the video.
If you saw how much of a mess my space can be, you wouldn’t think so! Haha. But I know I can be very particular about certain things. Glad you enjoyed it!
Funny that your MacBook Pro 2011 died .. so did mine 😢😭
You like wolves ?
What gave it away??
If you use 3rd party mouse and keyboards you don’t expect to get an issue? Smh 🤦🏾♂️
Sorry but this is not a very well-informed comment. Many people use third-party peripherals with Macs without significant issue (and you'll catch me dead before I use the ergonomic disaster that is the Magic Mouse). Also, the issues I was having with bluetooth connectivity and mouse acceleration have nothing to do with using third-party peripherals; bluetooth issues have unfortunately been characteristic of the Mac Mini for years. Mouse acceleration is part of the OS and is likely there to help with trackpad usage. It just bothered me significantly and I wanted to remove it. I hope that clarifies some things.
you're adorable
Yip 4 mice later they are overpriced crap i switched to a pc mouse ,no problem
too many wolves, mate
Isolate any and all computers from your control room and microphones. Regardless. Period. Run cable through a hole in the wall? 😊 Here we are in 2024 and M1 is still valid. More so than M3 cores.😮
Isolating computers from control rooms/mics is certainly ideal, but not always possible or practical in all living situations.
Great review. Thanks.