The best motherboard for music production thorough review is all you need to learn more about these impressive and high-end products. Professionals need a music production PC during extended audio production with large files because the process requires a lot of memory and speed, especially at high settings.
Therefore, owning any of the six featured motherboards in our buying guide means you will enjoy working with music on all levels, either for professional or casual use. This complete article answers the most frequently asked questions about choosing the most optimal audio interface for your PC setup.
Contents
- Comparison Table
- The 6 Best Motherboard for Music Production Reviews
- 1. ASUS Z490-CREATOR ProArt 10G Z490 ATX Motherboard
- 2. GIGABYTE GA-A320M-S2H AM4 Micro ATX Motherboard
- 3. Gigabyte B550M AORUS B550M PRO-P 5000 Micro ATX Motherboard
- 4. GIGABYTE Z390 DESIGNARE Gigabyte ATX Thunderbolt 3 Motherboard
- 5. ASUS Z390-A Prime LGA1151 ATX DP HDMI M.2 Motherboard
- 6. ASUS X570-Plus TUF AM4 Gaming Ryzen 5000 Motherboard
- Final Conclusion
Comparison Table
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The 6 Best Motherboard for Music Production Reviews
The previous table and bullet lists provided all the product’s actual specs and features, but it is insufficient to become a professional. As a result, we will review each product individually by providing the pros and cons and rating the critical criteria. Read the following sections for all the in-depth details.
1. ASUS Z490-CREATOR ProArt 10G Z490 ATX Motherboard
Pros:
- The most famous music producers use this motherboard for music production
- The two Thunderbolt 3 Type-C ports provide constant connectivity and power supply
- Customers can quickly pair the latest 10th Generation Intel Core processors
- There is a reliable power design with 12+2 DrMOS power stages
Cons:
- It is one of the least affordable featured units in this guide
- The overall design does not look visually and aesthetically appealing
The key criteria of the product are:
- Processor:5 out of 10
- Memory (RAM): 10 out of 10
- Expansion slots: 10 out of 10
- SATA ports:5 out of 10
The ASUS Z490-CREATOR ProArt 10G Z490 ATX Motherboard is the highest-rated product in this guide, which is understandable considering its cost. Fortunately, this impressive music production unit supports the latest 10th Generation Intel processors, which are essential for casual and professional applications.
As a result, you can build a powerful PC using the LGA 1200 CPU socket supporting most Intel units. Thus, we provide a final rating of 9.5 out of 10 for the processor critical criterion.
Fortunately, the ASUS Z490-CREATOR ProArt 10G Z490 ATX Motherboard receives the highest score for the following two criteria, proving its extraordinary potency. Namely, music and video production require a lot of memory, so your computer setup must have the necessary support.
Fortunately, the ASUS Z490-CREATOR ProArt 10G Z490 ATX Motherboard has 128 GB DDR4 memory capacity and a 4,700 MHz top memory speed, which is excellent for a product like this. Consequently, our experts provide a final rating of 10 out of 10 for the memory (RAM) critical criterion, this unit’s first superb score.
The ASUS Z490-CREATOR ProArt 10G Z490 ATX Motherboard receives an identical rating for the expansion slot criterion because many ports and slots exist. For instance, customers can enjoy two Thunderbolt 3 USB Type-C, Dual M.2, Hyper 10G LAN card, and onboard 2.5G Intel LAN slots. In addition, the advanced software for one-stop monitoring and management of ASUS Art series motherboards enables efficient content and audio creation workflows.
As a result, our experts agreed on a 10 out of 10 rating for the expansion slot vital criterion.
Ultimately, the ASUS Z490-CREATOR ProArt 10G Z490 ATX Motherboard has several SATA ports necessary for installing external memory devices. Namely, the computer’s sound card takes the most pressure, but professionals need to score the large music files accordingly.
Moreover, the reliable power design with 12+2 DrMOS power stages and ASUS OptiMem II memory trace layout boosts memory stability and compatibility. Hence, the ASUS Z490-CREATOR ProArt 10G Z490 ATX Motherboard receives a 9.5 out of 10 rating for the SATA port criterion.
Overview
The ASUS Z490-CREATOR ProArt 10G Z490 ATX Motherboard is the highest-rated featured unit in this guide. Thus, professional music producers will benefit the most from its incredible specs and features. The only significant drawback is the unit’s design.
2. GIGABYTE GA-A320M-S2H AM4 Micro ATX Motherboard
Pros:
- It overperforms the ASUS Rog Strix regarding maximum memory storage
- Customers can efficiently install the latest Ryzen and 7th Generation A processors
- It has high-quality audio capacitors and an audio noise guard
- It boosts internet speed using the Realtek Gigabit LAN with the cFosSpeed feature
Cons:
- There is no RGB LED lighting for an improved visual appearance
- The top memory speed is insufficient for premium operations
The key criteria of the product are:
- Processor:5 out of 10
- Memory (RAM): 8 out of 10
- Expansion slots: 9 out of 10
- SATA ports: 9 out of 10
The GIGABYTE GA-A320M-S2H AM4 Micro ATX Motherboard does not receive a superb rating on any critical criteria, but it is still an excellent choice. Namely, this is the first featured motherboard that supports Ryzen processors and all 7th Generation Athlon series CPUs. As a result, customers do not have to worry about compatibility because they can use other Core processors too.
Therefore, our experts give a final rating of 9.5 out of 10 for the processor criterion, which is a terrific start.
Furthermore, the GIGABYTE GA-A320M-S2H AM4 Micro ATX Motherboard has typical memory support for a motherboard at this cost. For instance, there is a lot of room for storing files, and this unit achieves a top memory speed of 3,200 MHz, which is not terrible by current standards.
But unfortunately, there are only two DIMM dual-channel non-ECC unbuffered DDR4 slots that might not be enough for professional music producers. Consequently, we give an 8 out of 10 rating for the memory (RAM) criterion, this unit’s lowest score.
Fortunately, the GIGABYTE GA-A320M-S2H AM4 Micro ATX Motherboard has many connectivities and compatibility options on the back. For example, customers can quickly locate the USB, HDMI, DVI, and Display ports because no aluminum heat sink prevents overheating.
Fortunately, this unit boosts internet speed using the Realtek Gigabit LAN with the cFosSpeed feature, essential for file transfers. Thus, the GIGABYTE GA-A320M-S2H AM4 Micro ATX Motherboard deserves a 9 out of 10 rating for the expansion slot vital criterion.
Ultimately, specific memory issues might appear because the GIGABYTE GA-A320M-S2H AM4 Micro ATX Motherboard has only two SATA ports. As a result, installing more external memory support, such as SSDs, during intense music productions and editing will be challenging.
Fortunately, a PCI Express Gen 3 x4 M.2 graphics interface should do the job for most common applications. Therefore, the GIGABYTE GA-A320M-S2H AM4 Micro ATX Motherboard deserves a rating of 9 out of 10 for the SATA port critical criterion.
Overview
The GIGABYTE GA-A320M-S2H AM4 Micro ATX Motherboard has impressive processor support. Therefore, customers wanting affordable and compatible music motherboards will benefit the most from this unit’s specs and features. Unfortunately, there is no RGB LED lighting.
3. Gigabyte B550M AORUS B550M PRO-P 5000 Micro ATX Motherboard
Pros:
- Customers can effortlessly pair all AMD processors
- The ultra-durable PCIe 4.0 Ready x16 slot boosts compatibility
- There is maximum memory storage of 128 GB DDR4
- It has the AMP-UP Audio with ALC1200 feature and a premium capacitor
Cons:
- The top memory speed is only 2,133 MHz, which is insufficient
- It might be challenging to find this product everywhere
The key criteria of the product are:
- Processor: 10 out of 10
- Memory (RAM): 8.5 out of 10
- Expansion slots: 9.5 out of 10
- SATA ports: 9 out of 10
The Gigabyte B550M AORUS B550M PRO-P 5000 Micro ATX Motherboard is an excellent all-around product for music production, video editing, and gaming. Fortunately, customers get nearly perfect processor support because they can install the latest 3rd Generation Ryzen 5000 processors.
In addition, they can use all 3rd Generation Ryzen with Radeon Graphics CPUs that boost the computer’s performance. Hence, our experts are confident this unit deserves a final rating of 10 out of 10 for the processor criterion.
Although the Gigabyte B550M AORUS B550M PRO-P 5000 Micro ATX Motherboard does not get another perfect rating, it provides serious power and potency. For instance, customers get the essential memory support of 128 GB DDR4 and four DIMM slots, so no problems should appear.
But unfortunately, there is only a 2,133 MHz (OC) top memory speed, which is low by current gaming and editing standards. Nevertheless, the Gigabyte B550M AORUS B550M PRO-P 5000 Micro ATX Motherboard gets an 8.5 out of 10 rating for the memory (RAM) criterion.
Furthermore, the Gigabyte B550M AORUS B550M PRO-P 5000 Micro ATX Motherboard receives a nearly ideal rating for the following criterion. Namely, there are many expansion slots and ports because customers get the standard interface with an advanced VRM heat sink.
Fortunately, the AMP-UP Audio with ALC1200 feature and premium capacitor provides an incredibly sharp and crisp audio output, which is mandatory for music producers. Hence, we give a final rating of 9.5 out of 10 for the expansion slot vital criterion.
Finally, the Gigabyte B550M AORUS B550M PRO-P 5000 Micro ATX Motherboard has several SATA ports with up to 6 Gb/s speeds. Luckily, customers can experience the dual ultra-fast NVMe PCI Express 4.0/3.0 x4 M.2 slot with a single advanced thermal guard.
As a result, no memory or speed issues should exist even during heavy and extended production or video editing. Consequently, our experts provide a final rating of 9 out of 10 for the SATA port critical criterion, wrapping up our thorough review of this unit.
Overview
The Gigabyte B550M AORUS B550M PRO-P 5000 Micro ATX Motherboard is affordable and has many expansion slots. Therefore, if you have many musical devices that you want to pair with your computer, this motherboard will do the job. In addition, you will never experience overheating.
4. GIGABYTE Z390 DESIGNARE Gigabyte ATX Thunderbolt 3 Motherboard
Pros:
- Customers can experience games and production programs at 4,400 MHz (OC)
- There are four DIMMs and dual-channel non-ECC unbuffered DDR4 RAM
- There is the Intel Thunderbolt 3 feature
- The Display Port 1.4 integrated graphics is excellent for video production
Cons:
- This gaming unit does not support the latest Ryzen processors
- Customers reported certain lags and delays during overclocking
The key criteria of the product are:
- Processor: 9 out of 10
- Memory (RAM): 9.5 out of 10
- Expansion slots: 9.5 out of 10
- SATA ports: 8.5 out of 10
The GIGABYTE Z390 DESIGNARE Gigabyte ATX Thunderbolt 3 Motherboard does not have the best processor support, but many unique features exist. Namely, although customers can enjoy the latest 8th and 9th Generation Intel processors, there is no ideal Ryzen CPU support. In addition, the 12+1 Phases digital VRM solution with DrMOS is excellent for most common functions and operations. Therefore, our experts provide a final rating of 9 out of 10 for the processor criterion.
Fortunately, the GIGABYTE Z390 DESIGNARE Gigabyte ATX Thunderbolt 3 Motherboard receives an improved rating for the following criterion. For instance, there is enough room for large video and music files, but the top memory speed is impressive.
In addition, customers can enjoy 4,400 MHz (OC) speeds with four DDR4 DIMM slots, which is unusual for a unit at this cost. As a result, we are confident this unit deserves a 9.5 out of 10 for the memory (RAM) critical criterion.
Furthermore, the GIGABYTE Z390 DESIGNARE Gigabyte ATX Thunderbolt 3 Motherboard has several expansion slots with futuristic specifications. For example, the Intel Thunderbolt 3 features an impressive USB Type-C port that is extremely fast and essential for professional use and applications.
In addition, there is the PCI Express graphics interface that performs well during extended and heavy use. Hence, the GIGABYTE Z390 DESIGNARE Gigabyte ATX Thunderbolt 3 Motherboard receives a 9.5 out of 10 for the expansion slot criterion.
The GIGABYTE Z390 DESIGNARE Gigabyte ATX Thunderbolt 3 Motherboard has standard SATA ports and slots. As a result, you can quickly install external memory devices if you run out of space when working with large files. Fortunately, the advanced thermal design with a direct touch heat pipe keeps the system cold during overclocking and heavy operations. Thus, our experts are confident this unit deserves an 8.5 out of 10 rating for the SATA port critical criterion, wrapping up our review.
Overview
The GIGABYTE Z390 DESIGNARE Gigabyte ATX Thunderbolt 3 Motherboard has excellent memory and expansion slot features. Consequently, users needing a quick and easy solution for their following production setup will benefit from this motherboard’s specs and features. We are positive you will enjoy it too.
5. ASUS Z390-A Prime LGA1151 ATX DP HDMI M.2 Motherboard
Pros:
- Customers can experience the visually-pleasing Aura Sync RGB lighting
- 5X Protection III Hardware-level safeguards with Safe Slot Core and LAN Guard
- 8-channel HD Gaming Audio featuring Realtek ALC887 high-definition audio
- It is one of the most affordable featured units in this article
Cons:
- There is insufficient top memory speed and capacity
- Customers reported difficulties installing this device for the first time
The key criteria of the product are:
- Processor: 9.5 out of 10
- Memory (RAM): 7 out of 10
- Expansion slots: 9 out of 10
- SATA ports: 9 out of 10
The ASUS Z390-A Prime LGA1151 ATX DP HDMI M.2 Motherboard is our detailed article’s second to last reviewed unit. Fortunately, there are certain unique features, but memory support is the most prominent drawback. For example, customers can effortlessly install the latest 8th and 9th Generation Intel processors, maximizing connectivity and speed.
As a result, the ASUS Z390-A Prime LGA1151 ATX DP HDMI M.2 Motherboard gets a 9.5 out of 10 final rating for the processor criterion, which is a great start.
Unfortunately, this gaming and editing unit offers the worst memory support in this guide, which might be annoying to professional producers. Namely, all customers get is a maximum storage capacity of 32 GB DDR4 using the four DIMM slots and a top memory speed of 2,400 MHz, this article’s slowest speed. As a result, it is impossible to experience modern games and editing software in high settings.
Consequently, our experts provided a final rating of 7 out of 10 for the memory (RAM) criterion, this article’s lowest score.
Furthermore, the ASUS Z390-A Prime LGA1151 ATX DP HDMI M.2 Motherboard improves expansion slots and SATA ports. For example, customers get the typical USB, HDMI, DVI, audio, and Display support, typical for most modern gaming setups.
Fortunately, there is the 8-channel HD Gaming Audio featuring Realtek ALC887 high-definition audio, boosting your system’s overall sound performance and output. Hence, we give a final rating of 9 out of 10 for the expansion slot vital criterion.
Finally, the ASUS Z390-A Prime LGA1151 ATX DP HDMI M.2 Motherboard performs identically for the last criterion, confirming its superb connectivity and compatibility options. The ASUS Z390-A Prime LGA1151 ATX DP HDMI M.2 Motherboard has four SATA ports with a speed of 6 Gb/s, which is the typical support in most mid-range units.
Fortunately, the patent-pending Safe Slot Core fortified PCIe slots to prevent damage caused by heavyweight CPUs and GPUs. Consequently, the final score for the SATA port criterion is 9 out of 10, which is an excellent way to finish our review.
Overview
The ASUS Z390-A Prime LGA1151 ATX DP HDMI M.2 Motherboard is potent but lacks essential memory features. So if you are a customer who does not care much about memory speed and capacity, this product is a great choice. Also, the RGB LED lighting looks futuristic.
6. ASUS X570-Plus TUF AM4 Gaming Ryzen 5000 Motherboard
Pros:
- Customers get an incredible value for money
- The comprehensive cooling solutions work perfectly in demanding tasks
- You can experience the exclusive Realtek L8200A Gigabit Ethernet technology
- There are four DDR4 DIMM slots with high speeds
Cons:
- Customers need to keep the BIOS up to date constantly
- The Aura Sync RGB LED lighting does not look impressive
The key criteria of the product are:
- Processor: 10 out of 10
- Memory (RAM): 9.5 out of 10
- Expansion slots: 8.5 out of 10
- SATA ports: 8.5 out of 10
The ASUS X570-Plus TUF AM4 Gaming Ryzen 5000 Motherboard receives interesting overall ratings, thanks to the unique features. Namely, this is not the most affordable motherboard, but you can enjoy the impressive processor and memory specifications, unlike the connectivity ports and slots.
Namely, you can install the latest 2nd and 3rd Generation Ryzen CPUs to boost connectivity and speed. As a result, we are confident this unit deserves a final rating of 10 out of 10 for the processor criterion, this unit’s only perfect score.
Fortunately, although the ASUS X570-Plus TUF AM4 Gaming Ryzen 5000 Motherboard does not get an excellent rating, the RAM support is all customers need. For instance, a maximum storage capacity of 128 GB DDR4 and a top memory speed of 4,400 MHz work together well.
Although this is not the most potent motherboard regarding memory and speed, it is an excellent choice for music production and video editing. Consequently, the ASUS X570-Plus TUF AM4 Gaming Ryzen 5000 Motherboard gets a 9.5 out of 10 rating for the memory (RAM) criterion.
However, the ASUS X570-Plus TUF AM4 Gaming Ryzen 5000 Motherboard underperforms regarding ports and slots because few options exist. This might frustrate customers because this unit costs a lot, so having superb connectivity options is necessary. Namely, customers get the standard UBS 3.2 Gen 2, AMD Store Mi, two M.2, and DVI slots, which is sufficient for most mid-range applications. Thus, we give a final rating of 8.5 out of 10 for the expansion slot vital criterion.
Lastly, the ASUS X570-Plus TUF AM4 Gaming Ryzen 5000 Motherboard has six SATA ports, unlike other similar products with four. Fortunately, there is excellent gaming networking with Intel 2×2 802.11ac Wi-Fi, MU-MIMO support, Bluetooth 5.0, and TUF LANGuard features.
Also, the hybrid fan headers and heat sink keep the setup cool during extended and heavy use, such as video editing and music production. Hence, the ASUS X570-Plus TUF AM4 Gaming Ryzen 5000 Motherboard gets an 8.5 out of 10 rating for the SATA port criterion.
Overview
The ASUS X570-Plus TUF AM4 Gaming Ryzen 5000 Motherboard has two impressive and two mid-range features. As a result, it is an excellent choice for producers because it balances performance and speed. Also, the RGB LED lighting is not ideal but will do the job.
Final Conclusion
Finding the most efficient motherboard for music and video production is time-consuming and challenging, especially for beginners and inexperienced users. Thus, our experts created this thorough guide detailing seven futuristic units with great specs and features.
The ASUS Z490-CREATOR ProArt 10G Z490 ATX Motherboard is the best choice because it is fast, potent, and compatible with most modern processors.
On the contrary, the Gigabyte B550M AORUS B550M PRO-P 5000 Micro ATX Motherboard is an excellent choice, too, thanks to the futuristic memory options. Fortunately, all motherboards featured in this guide are unique and powerful, so you will enjoy every minute producing with them.
