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Martin Garrix's gear: the instruments behind their career

Martin Garrix utilizes a sophisticated digital workflow anchored by high-performance computing and industry-standard production software to craft his signature Big Room and Progressive House sounds. His approach blends intricate layering in multiple DAWs with high-end vocal capture and precision monitoring to ensure professional clarity on global festival stages.

Martin Garrix
Martin Garrix

Early Career and Software Foundations

Martijn Garritsen, known professionally as Martin Garrix, began his journey into electronic music production using accessible software tools. Early explorations in sequencing and arrangement were facilitated by Apple GarageBand, providing a foundation in digital composition before he transitioned to more complex professional environments. This initial phase allowed him to develop the melodic sensibility that would eventually define his breakthrough into the global mainstream.

Breakthrough and Production Workflow

Following his global rise at age 17 with 'Animals' in 2013, Garrix refined his production workflow using a Custom Built PC and a Custom Built PC [other] to handle the heavy processing requirements of modern EDM. As a versatile producer, he employs various Digital Audio Workstations depending on the project requirements, including Image-Line FL Studio 2026, Ableton Live 12, and Apple Logic Pro. To manage and transport his sets and project files between global performances, he relies on the SanDisk Ultra USB 3.0 Flash Drive 64 GB.

KV331 Audio KV331 SynthMaster 3
KV331 Audio KV331 SynthMaster 3

Synthesis and Sound Design

The 'Garrix sound' is characterised by anthemic drops and textured synth layering. A core component of this aesthetic is the KV331 Audio SynthMaster Software Synthesizer, also referred to as KV331 Audio SynthMaster [Synth Plugins], which he uses for its powerful semi-modular architecture. To further expand his palette of sounds, he integrates the Vandalism Shocking Sounds 4 Sylenth1 Preset Pack, providing the essential lead and bass tones required for high-energy Dutch House and Electro House productions.

Vocal Recording and Professional Monitoring

As Garrix moved into collaborative pop efforts with artists like Dua Lipa and Bebe Rexha, the quality of vocal capture became paramount. For these studio sessions, the Sony C-800G condenser microphone is utilised to provide the high-fidelity clarity needed for radio-ready tracks. During the mixing process, he monitors his work through KRK Rokit Monitor [Active & Passive Monitors] and uses Audio-Technica ATH-M50x White headphones for detailed tracking and mobile production. Final polish and loudness standards are achieved using iZotope Ozone 12 [Mastering Plugins] to ensure his tracks resonate across worldwide festival stages.

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Frequently asked questions

Which DAW does Martin Garrix use?
Martin Garrix uses several DAWs including Image-Line FL Studio 2026, Ableton Live 12, Apple Logic Pro, and he originally started with Apple GarageBand.
What software synthesizer is central to his sound design?
The KV331 Audio SynthMaster Software Synthesizer is a key tool Garrix uses for crafting his intricate synth layers.
What headphones does Martin Garrix use for monitoring?
He uses the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x White headphones.
How does he store his music for DJ sets?
He utilizes the SanDisk Ultra USB 3.0 Flash Drive 64 GB for his music storage and transport needs.
What microphone is used for his vocal collaborations?
Garrix uses the Sony C-800G, a high-end condenser microphone, for recording vocals.
Which mastering software does he use?
He uses iZotope Ozone 12 [Mastering Plugins] to finalize his tracks.
What monitors are found in his studio setup?
His setup includes KRK Rokit Monitor [Active & Passive Monitors].
Does Martin Garrix use third-party presets?
Yes, he uses the Vandalism Shocking Sounds 4 Sylenth1 Preset Pack for sound design.
What kind of computer hardware does he use for production?
He uses a Custom Built PC and a Custom Built PC [other] to handle his production software.
What genres is Martin Garrix known for?
His work spans Electronic, Pop, Progressive House, Big Room House, Dutch House, Deep House, Electro House, and Future Bass.

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