Home Recording Studio Essentials for Beginners
Why Simple is Best
The fact is, not only is it possible to start off with just a simple studio…it’s actually preferable.
Because just like with any hobby, by attempting too much too soon:
- you get overwhelmed,
- you get discouraged, and…
- you eventually quit.
And all the time and money you invest is wasted.
So to avoid this fate, just keep it simple. But you might be wondering…
How cheap is too cheap?
Since home recording can be expensive…musicians often search for the cheapest possible solutions to recording their music.
And that’s fine, except…there is such a thing as “too cheap“.
There are low limits to what can be accomplished in such a studio…and I really wouldn’t recommend it to anyone truly serious about recording their music.
The Perfect First Studio for Newbies
With the following 9 items:
- A Computer
- DAW/Audio Interface Combo
- Studio Monitors
- One or Two Microphones
- Headphones
- A Few Cables
- One Mic Stand
- A Pop Filter
- Ear Training Software
What you have is a simple working studio, perfect for anyone just starting out with home recording.
And here’s why:
- It allows you to start ASAP with a minimal investment in both time and money.
- More importantly…it’s the perfect foundation to build upon later as your skills mature.
Now let’s talk more about each item on the list…
1. A Computer
When starting a studio from scratch, the computer is the biggest expenditure by far.
But these days, virtually everyone already has a computer of some sort. And virtually all computers are fast enough to at least get you started.
So in the beginning, regardless of your budget, I recommend using what you have for now.
2. A DAW/Audio Interface Combo
The DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) is the software used to record, edit, and mix music on your computer…
And the Audio Interface is the hardware used to connect your computer with the rest of your gear.
These two items can either be bought separately OR as a combo. But your first studio…I highly recommend the combo.
Here’s why:
- It’s one less item on your shopping list.
- It’s cheaper than buying them separately.
- It offers guaranteed compatibility and tech support
3. Microphones
As your studio matures over time…
You will eventually amass a collection of dozens of different microphones, each for different purposes.
For now, though, all you really need is 1 or 2 to get started.
And the ones you choose will depend on the instruments you plan to record.
Since most people start out just recording vocals, the “classic” large diaphragm condenser vocal mic I recommend is the:
For any “high-frequency-rich” instruments such as acoustic guitar, piano, or cymbals…the small diaphragm condenser mic I recommend for starters is the:
For drums, percussion, and electric guitar amps, the best mic to start with is undoubtedly the:
For bass guitar, kick drums, and other low-frequency instruments, a great mic to start with is the.
If you want to get started ASAP, the 4 mics I’ve just shown you are perfect.
