How To Set Up A Simple Home Recording Studio

In a digital age where anyone can compose and upload their music online, we’ve witnessed an exponential increase in home studios.

 

These studios can go anywhere from extremely high-tech to on-very-tight-budget, but what about the quality? Do you have to invest in such high-tech gadgets to get the quality you’re looking for? Can you go for the cheapest options while ensuring the quality of the music you produce?

 

Frankly speaking, you don’t have to go to either extreme to produce decent quality music without breaking the bank. All you have to do is to set up the essential equipment needed, and you’ll be good to go. If you’re unsure where to start, here’s a simple guide on how to set up a simple home recording studio.

 

 

 

Computer

It goes without saying; a computer is one of the most basic and essential tools you can’t do without. The real question then is, how advanced should your computer be? If you’re just getting started, then you don’t need an advanced computer at all. All you need is a PC or a laptop that’s fast enough to deliver your needs, which is something most computers can do right now.

 

Chances are, your current computer will do the job just perfectly. If you don’t own a computer, then go for one with average specs to accommodate your usage. If you’re looking to upgrade your computer, though, then you’ll want to get one that is designed for music composing and production.

DAW/Audio Interface Combo

A DAW, or digital audio workstation, is the software you use to produce your music on your computer. You’ll be able to record, edit, and mix the music you produce using the DAW software you install. You can get a DAW software separately and then connect it to the audio interface, the hardware you use for the music production process. Alternatively, you can get a DAW/Audio interface combo to hit two birds with one stone. This option is especially appealing if you’re a beginner, as it’s much more affordable and practical than getting a DAW and an audio interface separately.

Microphones

Microphones are another obvious piece of equipment your home studio can’t do without. Once you get more advanced in your music production, you’ll need a wider variety of microphones for different purposes. As a beginner, though, one or two mics are more than enough for you. Generally, a combination of a large-diaphragm condenser mic for vocals and a small-diaphragm condenser mic for high-frequency instrumentals is a good place to start.

 

In addition to the mic, you’ll need a few microphone accessories as well. While most audio interfaces come with a built-in preamp, you’ll want a good mic preamp to produce the sound quality you’re aiming for. A preamp will amplify the sound signals you record using your mic, which is often too low and weak. Additionally, you’ll want a good mic stand to hold your mic(s). A pop filter is another item you should totally get. Although it’s not essential, it’s both affordable and will significantly enhance your music quality.

Headphones

Chances are, you’ll be composing music on your own most of the time. That means you’ll definitely need a pair of quality headphones to do the job, which you’ll choose to either be closed-back or open-back. Closed-back headphones are best for tracking, where they’ll guarantee full isolation while offering a lesser sound quality. On the other hand, open-back headphones are best for mixing, where their sound quality is supreme but with less isolation.

Studio Monitors

You may think that having headphones will replace the need for speakers, but that’s not the case. In more technical terms, speakers are referred to as studio monitors, and they’re a must-have for your home studio. Contrary to normal speakers that alter the sound with various enhancements, studio monitors produce neutral and non-altered tones, giving you better insights about your music.

 

Cables

You’ll need a set of cables to connect the equipment and tools you use to your computer and audio interface. If you’re just getting started, it’s safe to say you’ll only need three cables: one long XLR cable for your mic and two short ones for the studio monitors.

 

Contrary to popular belief, owning your home recording studio has become easier than ever. The trick is finding the balance between quality equipment and price, and you’ll be set for creating breath-taking music. You don’t need much to get started; your home studio will be complete with a computer, DAW/Audio interface combo, mics, headphones, studio monitors, and cables.

 

 

Popnable /Popnable Media