Synthesizers are not just tools for creating music; they can also be a source of income through various side hustles. Whether you are a professional musician or a hobbyist, there are several ways to monetize your passion for synths. In this article, we will explore five synth side hustles that can help you earn some extra cash.
The first side hustle we will discuss is making synth presets. Presets are pre-configured settings on synthesizers that can be used to create specific sounds. Many musicians rely on presets to quickly access certain sounds without having to tweak parameters manually. If you enjoy sound design and spend a lot of time creating custom patches, you can sell your presets to other musicians. Platforms like Gumroad, Sellfy, and Bandcamp allow you to set up a digital storefront to sell your presets. You can also offer custom preset creation services on freelance sites like Fiverr and Upwork.
The second side hustle is creating sample packs and sample-based instruments. Samples are snippets of audio recordings that can be used in music production. By sampling your synthesizers, you can create unique sound libraries that other producers may find valuable. You can sell your sample packs on your own online store or license them to streaming services like Splice or third-party marketplaces like ADSR. If you have coding skills, you can also create sample-based instruments for platforms like Native Instruments Kontakt or Decent Sampler.
The third side hustle is becoming a synthfluencer. If you have a passion for synthesizers and enjoy sharing your knowledge and music with others, you can become a synthfluencer on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, or Twitch. By building a following, you can earn money through ad revenue, sponsorships, and Patreon support. Being a synthfluencer also allows you to promote other side hustles like presets and sample packs to your audience.
The fourth side hustle is teaching synthesis and music production. If you have expertise in synthesizer programming and music production, you can offer lessons to aspiring musicians. You can provide one-on-one lessons through video conferencing platforms like Zoom or create online courses on platforms like Udemy or Point Blank Music. Teaching can be a rewarding way to share your knowledge and help others develop their skills.
The fifth side hustle is music tech journalism. If you have a passion for writing and a deep interest in music technology, you can pursue a career in music tech journalism. Writing reviews, articles, and tutorials about synthesizers and music production gear can be a fulfilling side hustle. While music tech journalism may not be the most lucrative job, it can be a great way to combine your love for writing and music technology.
In conclusion, there are many ways to turn your passion for synthesizers into a profitable side hustle. Whether you choose to make presets, create sample packs, become a synthfluencer, teach synthesis, or write about music tech, there are plenty of opportunities to earn money while doing what you love. Explore these synth side hustles and see which ones resonate with you. Who knows, your hobby could turn into a successful business venture in the world of music technology.
