Hardware vs. Software: Is Outboard Gear Necessary in 2025?

The debate between hardware and software in music production has been ongoing for decades. As someone who’s been on the full journey, I’ve seen it from all angles—starting with hardware, moving fully in the box, going back to an all-hardware setup, and now landing in a semi-hybrid workflow in 2025.

So, do we still need hardware? The short answer: Yes, but not for everything.

The Evolution of Hardware vs. Software

Early Days – All Hardware

Back when I started, hardware was the only option. Everything from synths to compressors and reverbs had to be outboard gear. The feel of turning knobs, pushing faders, and tweaking sounds in real-time was part of the experience.

The Move Into the Box

As software improved, I moved mainly in the box—while it was convenient, something felt missing. Plugins could emulate the sound of hardware, but they didn’t fully capture the feel.

The Return to Hardware

I later went full hardware again, realising that there was still a difference. Hardware synths, compressors, and reverbs still had a certain depth, warmth, and interaction that made them unique.

2025 – The Semi-Hybrid Era

Now, I work in a semi-hybrid setup, and I’ve reached a conclusion:

✔️ Hardware still has a role. The difference may be subtle, but it’s there.

✔️ Plugins now sound incredible. Some modern software feels indistinguishable from hardware.

✔️ Interaction and creativity matter. The way we engage with gear affects the music we create.

What Still Sounds Better in Hardware?

🎛️ Synths – A real Prophet 5 still doesn’t compare to a plugin version. It’s not just the sound—it’s the feel, the movement, and the life in the analog signal.

🌊 Reverbs – In-the-box reverbs have come a long way. With improvements in processing power, oversampling, and high-resolution algorithms, their clarity and depth now rival hardware. While some producers have been using them for years, advancements in technology have made them a truly viable option for those who once preferred outboard units

🌀 Timbre & Playability – Hardware synths encourage playing and experimenting in a way that plugins don’t always replicate. The physical interaction leads to unexpected creative moments.

Where Software Has Completely Caught Up

🔊 Compression – For me, in-the-box compressors work 100%. Whether it’s an LA-2A, 1176, or SSL bus compressor, the modern plugin emulations are pretty much indistinguishable from hardware.

🎚️ Mixing & Mastering – Andrew Scheps moving entirely in the box was a turning point for me. If a Grammy-winning mix engineer could do it, it was clear the technology was there. In 2025, I can confidently say mixing in the box sounds just as good.

💾 Workflow & Convenience – Recall-ability, automation, and efficiency make plugins a game-changer. The ability to instantly tweak settings, save presets, and work on multiple projects without patching cables is a huge advantage.

Hardware Sequencers vs. DAW Sequencing

One of the biggest differences between hardware and software is how we sequence music. DAWs like Ableton Live, Logic, and Cubase are powerful and flexible, but hardware sequencers like the MPC, BeatStep Pro, and Cirklon offer a different creative experience.

🎛️ MPC Series – The MPC workflow is legendary. The tactile, hands-on sampling and sequencing bring a groove and swing that DAWs sometimes struggle to replicate.

⚡ BeatStep Pro – A great step sequencer for modular and analog setups, giving a performance-based workflow that encourages jamming and improvisation.

🔄 Cirklon – The gold standard for hardware sequencing, offering deep control, tight timing, and a workflow that feels different from a DAW’s piano roll.

While DAWs allow more flexibility, hardware sequencers bring a human touch, pushing producers into unexpected creative directions. It’s why many still prefer the MPC swing or the Cirklon’s rock-solid timing over a mouse and MIDI grid.

Final Thoughts: Is Hardware Still Worth It?

✅ Yes, if you love the feel of hardware.

✅ Yes, if you want hands-on interaction.

✅ Yes, if you want slightly richer timbre and movement.

✅ But for mixing? The difference is now negligible.

For years, people have been working entirely in the box—even as far back as 2004, when StoneBridge’s ‘Put ’Em High’ was written and mixed wholly in the box. It’s taken a long time, but now, in 2025, the difference in software vs. hardware mixing is nearly indistinguishable.

So, do you need hardware? No. But does hardware still bring something special to the creative process? Absolutely.

What’s your take? Are you all in the box, all hardware, or somewhere in between? 🚀🎛️

Hardware or Software