At a time when audio technology was in its infancy, recording at home was a distant dream. For musicians to record at home, high-end analog equipment was necessary. Today, aspiring musicians and producers can build a fully-functional home recording studio on a very tight budget thanks to advancements in digital equipment. When it comes to setting up a home recording studio, the biggest challenge knows what equipment you’ll need. Choosing the right equipment for your home recording setup can be challenging with so many options available. The goal of this guide is to provide you with all the information you need to get home recording started. I’ll suggest the best equipment for your budget, as well as offer advice on how to make the most of it. We’ll start with entry-level gear, move onto affordable, intermediate, professional, and even high-end gear on our home recording gear safari. “Grow your ear before your gear” is one of my favorite pieces of advice. You will also find links to some other articles here on letthemusicplay.today that may help answer any additional gear-related questions in this article.
Let’s get started.
Setup for recording at home at an entry level
Recording equipment that is entry-level or budget-friendly is ideal for those without an excess of disposable funds. There are many hidden gems within the entry-level category despite the lower price tags. There may be a few features and add-ons on the recording gear I’m about to present to you that aren’t as sophisticated as those on the highest-end equipment, but you can still use it to achieve high-quality results and put together a competent recording full studio setup at home.
Audio interfaces for entry-level users
Audio interfaces act as a link between audio sources, mics or pickups, and computers and laptops in a home recording setup. The cost of entry-level audio interfaces is very reasonable. You can record two sources simultaneously with an audio interface if one is line-level and the other is microphone-level. MIDIplus makes the best budget audio interfaces. They are easy to use and are reliable enough to record audio into a DAW. You can also connect your monitors to the entry-level interfaces, which provide +48v phantom power, which is essential when recording with a condenser microphone. Our article on phantom power can be found here.
A few recommendations:
In comparison with their quality, the Midiplus Audiolink Light and Midiplus Smartface are incredibly affordable. The Midiplus Smartface II is a great option for those looking for slightly more advanced features, such as superior preamps on the inputs and more control over each channel’s gain settings.
Microphones for entry-level recording
Whether recording vocals for music or podcasting, condenser microphones are essential. While entry-level condenser mics may not provide the same level of clarity as more advanced models, they are a good place to start. Condenser microphones are usually connected to your computer or laptop via an XLR cable, which is plugged into your audio interface, or via USB, which is directly connected to the device. For more information, read this article about XLR vs USB microphones. When you record with budget condenser mics, they may produce some noise, but if you use EQ and other mixing processes, you can minimize this.
A few recommendations:
I highly recommend the Samson SAGOMIC, a portable USB condenser microphone that captures audio in a clear and precise manner. If you’re on a tight budget, I’d recommend considering the Neewer NW-800 or the Fifine K669B, which are similar in terms of price and quality.
Dynamic microphones for entry-level applications
Dynamic microphones are best for recording louder sounds that do not require the detail of a condenser microphone. Guitar amplifiers, drums, and other electronic instruments can be heard clearly through these microphones. If you’re looking for a bargain, dynamic microphones are generally more affordable than condenser and ribbon microphones. In most cases, dynamic microphones connect to an audio interface via an XLR or jack cable. You can then adjust the gain on the input to achieve an optimal level.
A few recommendations:
The Audio-Technica ATR-1200 is a great entry-level dynamic microphone if you’re looking to save money on other equipment for your home recording setup. Alternatively, you can use a dynamic microphone like the Behringer BA-85A, which has an optimized frequency voice and a super-cardioid polar pattern for capturing instruments and vocals.
Monitors for entry-level studios
Choosing monitors that project the entire frequency range clearly is essential to achieving balanced mixes and hearing the recordings clearly. There are certainly cheap studio monitors that perform well, but I recommend investing in the best set that your budget allows. There are some very affordable speakers available that are capable.
A few recommendations:
The Samson MediaOne M30, Mackie CR-X, and Donner Studio Monitors are three examples of entry-level studio monitors worth considering. For those with a little extra to spend on monitors, I recommend the Donner Studio Monitors, which feature a 3 inch woven woofer for low-end clarity and an astonishingly accurate frequency response.
While the first two sets of monitors I suggested are less expensive and offer a slightly reduced degree of clarity, they will still allow you to listen to your recordings with a reasonable level of clarity.
Headphones for entry-level users
Whether you’re recording an instrument, vocals, or any other sound source, headphones are essential. Without them, you can’t record over an existing audio track or metronome without spilling into the recordings. Although there are many entry-level options out there, finding a decent pair requires sifting through the subpar offerings. You can get away with using a budget set of headphones that don’t offer the same sound quality as more expensive ones if you won’t be using headphones.
A few recommendations:
The Philips Over-EarStereo Headphones are an example of such headphones, with a frequency response spanning from 10Hz to 23kHz. In the entry-level category, the Tascam TH-02 headphones offer a good balance between lower, mid, and treble frequencies. If you’re willing to pay a little more, the OneOdio Wired Over-Ear Headphones are excellent. You can read our article entitled “Are expensive headphones worth it” here.
Keyboards and controllers for entry-level musicians
The onboard controls of a MIDI controller can be used to play synth parts, program drum samples, or modulate certain aspects of a virtual instrument. This type of recording can be accomplished using entry-level MIDI keyboards. If you’re on a tight budget, these budget devices have fewer keys and controls than more advanced options, but they’re still quite useful.
Voicing our recommendations:
With 32 keys and additional features such as pitch bend and modulation wheel, the MIDIPLUS AKM320 is a great value for money and compact enough to fit into a home recording setup.
If you’re willing to invest a little extra in a MIDI keyboard, I’d recommend the Samson Graphite M25. You can use this MIDI controller to create music within your chosen DAW, even though it has fewer keys than the MIDIPLUS. It has a wide variety of programmable controls and is an excellent tool for music production. Find out more about MIDI in this article if you’ve ever wondered what it is.
Cables for entry-level users
When recording audio through an interface, you’ll likely use two types of cables. The first is the XLR cable, which is used to transmit balanced signals, most commonly from microphones. The second is the RCA cable, which is used to connect your monitor to your audio interface. This type of cable is commonly used for recording instruments such as electric guitars, acoustic-electric guitars, synthesizers, keyboards, or samplers.
A few recommendations:
When you want to save money for other components in your home recording setup, entry-level cables are a good choice. Here are two XLR microphone cables I recommend: the Basics XLR Cable and the Sovvid XLR Cable, both of which are 6 feet long. This New Bee Guitar Cableis a great value for money. It has a length of 10ft and a right-angle connector so it rivals more expensive cables. You could also save more money if you purchase the Sovvid Guitar Cable, which is also 10ft long and has robust connectors. This article provides more information on how long XLR cables can be.
DAWs & recording software for beginners
The amount of physical equipment you amass won’t matter unless you have a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation). New DAWs have emerged over the years, allowing us to choose from a wide range of options. I’d recommend using one of the following free DAWs for an entry-level best budget recording setup. They all allow you to record audio, and provide a decent amount of tools for processing files:
A few recommendations:
Using GarageBand
The reaper
First, Pro Tools
BandLab’s Cakewalk
Equipment for entry-level workers
Adding pop filters and microphone stands to your home recording set up will depend on what you intend to use it for. In recording vocals, pop filters are used to prevent plosives from entering the microphone capsule. In order to record into your DAW using a condenser or dynamic microphone, you’ll need a microphone stand. Mic stands come in a variety of sizes and forms, so be sure they match the mics you choose.
A few recommendations:
A Neewer Pop Filter and a PMOTech Pop Shield are two budget pop filters that will improve your vocal recordings. Additionally, I recommend considering the Bilione 3 in 1 Desktop Mic Stand, or the Pyle PMKS3 Microphone Stand for a more compact option. For more information, check out our article called “Can you use two pop filters?”.
Recording at home at an affordable price
The gear mentioned in the previous section will allow you to record, mix, and produce audio in your home studio, but you’re likely to outgrow it as time goes on.
Rather than opting for the most basic, low-cost options on the market, you might want to consider affordable gear if you have a little extra to spend on your home recording setup. As a result, price isn’t always an indicator of quality, and it’s always possible to find a bargain that performs just as well as a more expensive device. Compared to the aforementioned entry-level home recording setup, the following items offer more quality. As I’ll explain in further detail below, they have more adjustable controls, superior build quality, and many other advantages.
Audio interfaces at an affordable price
If you want to improve the quality of your home recordings, invest in a high-quality audio interface. There are plenty of affordable options out there. Preamps installed on these interfaces will be one of the areas where you’ll see the biggest improvement. The preamplifier is responsible for amplification and processing the signal received from an instrument or microphone. Each preamp affects the overall sound of the recording in a significant way. When recording and outputting audio to monitors or headphones, affordable audio interfaces have two inputs and two outputs, which is also the norm for entry-level options. The use of audio interfaces can also reduce latency. You can read more about this topic here. As well as 24-bit/192 kHz converters, these devices ensure high-quality recordings without noise or glitches caused by a lack of processing power.
A few recommendations:
One of the leading manufacturers of affordable home recording equipment, Behringer produces a range of audio interfaces, including the Behringer UM2. It is ideal for recording signals simultaneously from a microphone and instrument. The Behringer UM2 is a slightly more advanced version, but still reasonably priced. M-Audio also produces several high-quality, affordable audio interfaces that offer impressive preamps, as illustrated by the M-Audio M-Track Solo. Preamps and integrated amplifiers can be found in this article.
Condenser microphones at an affordable price
Due to the cardioid pickup pattern, affordable condenser mics usually capture audio with more detail and clarity than entry-level models. The build quality of these affordable microphones is also superior to budget microphones. Everything from the grille to the connector is likely to be more robust, which means they’ll be less likely to be damaged when used at home. Affordable condenser microphones are typically constructed from zinc, which has a flat frequency response of 20hZ to 20kHz, resulting in smooth recordings. This article explains the differences between large and small condenser microphones.
Voicing our recommendations
Behringer’s B-1 is another example of the company’s expertise in home recording. With its pressure-gradient transducer and switchable roll for reducing problematic low frequencies, this large-diaphragm condenser mic is ideal for capturing vocals, spoken word, or acoustic instruments. MXL V67G is another affordable condenser mic with a high performance that belies its modest price tag. Because it has a unidirectional polar pattern, it is perfect for podcasting conversations with more than one person, and its solid-state preamp makes it ideal for musicians.
Dynamic microphones at an affordable price
In comparison to the basic options discussed earlier in this article, affordable dynamic microphones record instruments and other sound sources with greater clarity. Performance-enhancing features, such as integral pop filters, robust metal grilles, and customized frequency response, contribute to this. A common improvement made to affordable dynamic mics is their ability to reduce handling noise. Manufacturers can control noise issues with entry-level mics by using techniques like shock-mounted cartridges.
A few recommendations
Dynamic microphones from Shure are the leading brands for home recording setups and live performances. Shure’s SM48 is one of their best affordable options, which is incredibly durable and capable of recording amplified instruments. Audio-Technica is Shure’s biggest rival when it comes to dynamic microphones. The AT2005 from Audio-Technica is a solid choice if you’re looking for a dynamic microphone that can connect to your computer via USB or XLR cable.
Studio monitors at an affordable price
When setting up a home recording studio on a tight budget, you may want to consider entry-level studio monitors. Furthermore, affordable studio monitors will improve your mixing skills if you have a little extra to spend. Larger, more powerful speaker cones and woofers are likely to be responsible for these improvements. The speakers may also include controls for fine-tuning the frequency output to suit the acoustics of your home recording studio. It is important to take care of your studio monitors to prevent pooing when they are turned on and off. You can read more about this subject here.
Voicing our recommendations
Check that affordable studio monitors have at least a 3-inch woofer and a tweeter capable of producing accurate transients and treble frequencies. Both of these criteria are met by the PreSonus Eris E3.5.
Headphones at an affordable price
Studio headphones provide superior sound quality, better noise cancellation, and a more accurate representation of your recordings when you spend a little extra on them. In comparison with entry-level headphones, affordable headphones add less coloration to your audio. (This is what you want). As a result, your recordings will sound more consistent when you mix them in these headphones.
A few recommendations:
The advantage of wireless headphones is that they prevent cables from getting in the way of playing an instrument while recording. If you’re interested in the benefits of a wireless design and want to move around your home recording space freely, the JBL Live 650headphones are an affordable option. The Audio-Technica ATH-M20X is another affordable pair of headphones that is ideal for home recording. When recording vocals, instruments, or mixing and mastering audio, these headphones have a closed-back design that cancels out most outside noise.
MIDI controllers and keyboards at an affordable price
Your home recording setup will determine the importance of a MIDI controller. MIDI keyboards with advanced features or a large number of keys may not be necessary if you are mostly recording live instruments and vocals. In that case, affordable MIDI controllers are likely to be your best choice. As opposed to the most basic options, such as user preset slots and octave shift buttons, these devices provide more controls and adjustable parameters. The good news is that they aren’t overly complicated, and won’t take up much space in your home studio.
A few recommendations
Compact and lightweight, M-Audio controllers are the ideal choice for musicians and producers who value simplicity. The M-Audio Keystation Mini 32 MK3 is one of their most popular low-priced models. With an onboard arpeggiator and sustain control, the Akai Professional LPK25 is an excellent option if you’d like to be even more efficient with your home recording set up.
Cables at an affordable price
Before investing in affordable cables, make sure they combine durability with sound quality. These slightly more expensive cables boast superior shielding, which reduces interference and improves the sound of your recordings.
A few recommendations
The MonopricePremier Series XLRand the Cable Matters XLR are both affordable XLR cables suitable for home recording. They both have robust connectors and are long enough to reach across a room to a microphone. Gig Snake Guitar Cable and GLS Audio Instrument Cable embody the same qualities, but for recording instruments and other unbalanced signals.
DAWs & recording software at an affordable price
You can capture and process audio with the DAWs I recommend for entry-level home recording setups It’s worth upgrading to a more advanced DAW if you want to expand the possibilities and integrate more VST plugins.
Voicing our recommendations
There are two affordable DAWs that have gained considerable popularity in recent years: Magix Music Maker Plus and PreSonus Studio One. For those with some previous experience in audio processing, the former would be a great tool for learning the various skills required to mix audio, while the latter is slightly more sophisticated.
Equipment that is also affordable
When setting up a home recording studio, pop filters, pop shields, isolation booths, and microphone stands are often overlooked. Our article on vocal isolation booths can be found here. The reason for this is that these items do not have the direct impact on the sound of the recordings that microphones or monitors do. In the long run, spending a little extra on these items will save you money by preventing you from having to replace them sooner. To prevent wear and tear, affordable pop shields and mic stands are made from stronger materials, such as metal and mesh foam.
Voicing our recommendations
Check out this article for help with recording vocals in a home studio. If your vocal takes are marred by plosives and other noises, it can be extremely frustrating. This potential issue can be minimized with affordable tools, such as the Arisen Pop Filter and the Elgato Wave Pop Shield. Additionally, the stability of your microphones will directly affect the sound of your recordings. You might end up with unwanted noises in your recordings if the stand is flimsy and prone to moving around. Investing in a sturdy stand, like the Kasonic Mic Stand or the On-Stage Desktop Mic Stand, can prevent this.
Setup for home recording at an intermediate level
We’re now moving on from affordable recording equipment to more capable, durable, and high-performance equipment. Musicians and producers with limited recording experience or without the funds to invest in better equipment might benefit from the previous two complete home recording setups. With the setups I’ve described so far, it’s certainly possible to record good quality at home. Those who are serious about the quality of their recordings will benefit from an intermediate home recording setup. The setup I’m about to outline may be perfect for you if you want to capture crisp, polished recordings in your home studio without spending a fortune.
Interfaces for intermediate audio
In comparison to entry-level and affordable audio interfaces, mid-level audio interfaces offer many noticeable improvements. In addition, Class-A microphone preamps provide impeccable input quality, which is one of the most significant differences. You can record clear, full-bodied recordings when plugging an instrument directly into the audio interface thanks to the improved preamps. There’s a good chance that lesser quality interfaces will suck out some of the natural tones from your instrument, which limits your mixing options. With intermediate audio interfaces, durability and build quality are likely to improve as well.
You won’t notice any difference in the quality of your recordings, but the metal chassis will protect the device’s inner components, making it more durable and resistant to damage. Learn how to connect an iPad or iPhone to an audio interface in this article. Also, manufacturers often include free software with mid-priced audio interfaces. If you’re not familiar with DAWs, you might want to consider an audio interface that includes one if you’re yet to install one on your computer or laptop.
Voicing our recommendations
Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen) features high-quality mic preamps and a switchable air mode that instantly brightens up dull recordings. For those seeking quality and affordability, the Steinberg UR12 is another great option. There is a Class-A D-Pre mic preamp on this interface, along with phantom power and direct monitoring for polished recordings. Check out our article here on how to connect a guitar amp to an audio interface.
Microphones for intermediate condensers
The addition of multiple polar patterns is one of the main benefits of using a mid-level condenser microphone in your home studio. The polar pattern determines the direction in which the microphone capsule can pick up sound. Increasingly, condenser mics come with three or four polar patterns, such as:
- Cardioid
- omnidirectional
- Bi-directional
- Hyper-cardioid
Multiple polar patterns make condenser mics more versatile. An intermediate-level condenser microphone with several polar patterns is ideal if you intend to record a variety of instruments and sound sources.
A few recommendations
This Blue Yeti unique mic captures vocals with impressive clarity, making it one of the best in its price range among musicians, broadcasters, podcasters, and live streamers. With its high SPL handling and low mass diaphragm, the Audio-Technica AT2020 is a great choice for music-focused recordings.
Dynamic microphones for intermediate levels
Due to their higher quality components, mid-range dynamic microphones can capture pristine recordings and are generally more versatile than their lower-priced counterparts. The number of polar patterns included in intermediate dynamic mics is one of the most common improvements. Mics often have hypercardioid polar patterns to increase focus and clarity.
Voicing our recommendations
There are several mid-priced dynamic microphones produced by Sennheiser and Audio-Technica that will enhance your home recording setup. This category includes my personal favorite, the roadworthy Sennheiser E835. This mic has a wide frequency response and good feedback rejection, making it suitable for a variety of sound sources, including snare drums and distorted guitar amplifiers. The Audio-Technica AT2040 dynamic microphone is a step up in quality from the affordable and entry-level options discussed earlier. With its hypercardioid polar pattern, it blocks out noise from both sides and captures vocals very accurately.
Monitors for intermediate studios
Compared to more basic studio monitors, mid-range studio monitors deliver better accuracy. With a decent set of monitors, your recordings will have less coloration and tonal changes, allowing you to mix and process them more easily.
A few recommendations
Studio monitors from Yamaha’s HS range are some of the best in the industry. The Yamaha HS5 is a standout model in the mid-range category because of its balanced sound and extensive frequency response. A worthy choice for electronic music producers looking for extra bass from their studio monitors is the JBL Professional 305P MkII. A deep bass tone does not detract from the clarity of mids and higher frequencies on these monitors. Check out this article if you’ve ever wondered if speaker cables must be the same length.
Headphones for intermediate users
Comfort is the first thing that is likely to be improved if you spend more on a better set of headphones for your home recording setup. The comfort that headphones provide is equally important as the appearance and sound quality. Mid-range headphones have softer ear pads and are made with more forgiving materials than affordable and entry-level headphones. You will also get a better representation of the audio you record or playback if the inner speakers can handle low frequencies better.
Voicing our recommendations
In order to enjoy a balanced, powerful sound, mid-range headphones must have high-quality magnets and drivers. Sony’s MDR7506 closed-back headphones, powered by 40mm drivers and equipped with neodymium magnets, are a great example of a product that offers these qualities. The Sennheiser HD280PRO set of headphones are renowned for their highly comfortable, cushioned design, which is perfect for home recording.
Keyboards and controllers for intermediate MIDI
If you’re willing to spend a little more for more options, mid-range MIDI controllers and keyboards are a great choice. You can play more complex keyboard and piano parts into your DAW with intermediate MIDI controllers because of the larger number of keys.
Voicing our recommendations
With intermediate MIDI controllers, you can map faders and controls to certain functions on your DAW, allowing you to control different aspects of it. Novation Launchkey 49 is a highly popular controller with an extensive control layout and semi-weighted keys. The M-Audio Keystation 49 MK3 is an affordable option in the intermediate category. There are also semi-weighted keys and assignable controls, including volume faders, transport buttons, and a sustain pedal input.
Cables for intermediate use
You will be able to record vocals and instruments more clearly as the quality of your cables increases. Manufacturers use more robust connectors, superior copper shielding, and rubber outer jackets to protect the important inner components.
A few recommendations
With decades of experience in the guitar and amplifier industry, Fender has created a range of highly capable instrument cables. The Fender Deluxe 15′ Angled Instrument Cable is one of their best mid-priced offerings. Check out this article if you’ve ever wondered whether to record guitar in mono or stereo. Pig Hog is one of the best-known manufacturers of robust and reliable XLR cables for recording dynamic or condenser microphones in your home studio. To ensure longevity, Pig Hog PHM6 XLR connectors are protected and coated with thick rubber.
DAWs & recording software for intermediate users
In general, intermediate DAWs are more efficient than the more basic examples presented here. In order to create a faster, more streamlined recording experience, companies that design sequencers and effects racks give them more consideration.
Voicing our recommendations
The DAWs Audacity and Bitwig Studio represent a middle ground between more advanced, complex recording software and the more primitive options previously discussed. With Audacity, you can easily capture live sound, playback audio, and process recorded tracks. You can also convert audio files into different formats. With Bitwig Studio’s onboard sequencer, you can create loops from your audio.
Intermediate equipment
Any recording engineer, producer, or musician should invest in good-quality microphone stands and pop filters. Each microphone will need a stand depending on how many sources you plan to record simultaneously. Cheaper mic stands can work just fine for some recording projects, but if you use them too often, they are likely to buckle. In comparison to their more basic counterparts, boom stands are renowned for their durability.
Voicing our recommendations
Many home recording studios use the Audiophonix Pop Filter. With its flexible arm, you can ensure that the shield covers the capsule of your vocal microphone and eliminates plosives to the best of its abilities. With the On-Stage Tripod Microphone Boom Stand, you can record a wide range of sound sources using a robust, reliable microphone stand.
Setting up a professional home recording studio
Many audio-related devices are referred to as “professional,” but some do not live up to the label. Professional home recording setups are those that allow users to create, capture, and process sounds efficiently and effectively. In order to achieve this level of recording, you’ll need equipment that goes beyond the three setups we’ve discussed so far. In order to make high-quality recordings, you’ll need a professional setup that gives you all the options you need without overcomplicating the process. In comparison to the entry-level, affordable, and intermediate home recording setups I mentioned earlier, many of the items I’m about to discuss aren’t overly expensive. Let’s take a look at the components you need to create a pro-level recording setup at home.
Audio interfaces for professionals
The quality of your home recordings will be transformed by professional-level audio interfaces, which are incredibly efficient. As opposed to the aforementioned mid-range options, these devices have an additional pair of inputs and outputs, totaling four of each. Four inputs allow you to record multiple sound sources simultaneously, on different tracks in your DAW. This opens up many more possibilities, including recording a drum kit with a microphone on the kick drum, snare, overheads, and a room mic. Pro-level audio interfaces also come with a variety of additional features. For example, they may have detailed visual displays so you can see if a channel requires more gain.
Voicing our recommendations
Focusrite’s Scarlett audio interfaces are among the best audio interfaces for home recording studios, as I mentioned previously. In comparison to its smaller sibling, the Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 has two additional inputs and outputs, and its sound quality is excellent. With six outputs and plenty of headroom for direct recordings, the PreSonus Studio 1810c is another excellent professional-level interface.
Microphones for professional use
Professional-level condenser microphones are the perfect middle ground between more expensive high-end microphones and less-quality, affordable alternatives if you’re looking for high-quality recordings. Unlike mid-level condensers, pro-level mics are virtually noise-free. While mid-level condensers eliminate most noise, pro-level mics eliminate it entirely. The capsule and other electronic components of a microphone naturally color the sound of a recording.
The components used in professional condenser mics are of exceptional quality, resulting in better sound quality in a home studio.
Voicing our recommendations
Two of the best condenser microphones in this price range are the Aston Microphones Origin and the Rode NT1-A. Its striking appearance is just as impressive as its sonic qualities. It also comes with a built-in pop filter, which is useful for recording vocals. A self-noise of just 5dB makes the Rode NT1-A the perfect choice for vocalists and podcasters alike. The following article explains what self-noise is.
Dynamic microphones for professionals
For professional-quality home recording, you’ll need a dynamic microphone that can capture a variety of sound sources. Professional dynamic microphones sound noticeably better than mid-range dynamic microphones.
A few recommendations
Professional dynamic microphones are dominated by two options (and have been for many years). The Shure SM57 and Shure SM58 are legendary microphones. Regardless of the instrument or vocal track, both microphones have specific frequency responses. Professional recording engineers use the SM57 because of its uniform cardioid polar pattern, which minimizes background noise and focuses on the desired sound source. With less low-end frequencies, the SM58 has a brighter midrange. Take a look at our article about the Shure SM7B, which is popular for podcasting.
Monitors for professional studios
Studio monitors are a must-have component for creating a professional home recording studio. Power handling is one of the major differences between pro-level monitors and mid-range options. Watts are used to measure the power of studio monitors. In addition to affecting the maximum volume that the monitors can produce, this also impacts their dynamic range and headroom. Choosing a pair of monitors with a higher wattage will allow you to hear transients more clearly. As a result, you will be able to use tools like EQ, compression, or limiters more accurately and precisely when mixing in your home studio.
A few recommendations
Yamaha’s HS7 studio monitors are an upgrade from mid-range options. Professional mixing engineers use this 100-watt monitor’s 6.5-inch woofer for crisp, powerful bass, and its 1-inch dome tweeter for pristine mids and highs. PreSonus Eris E8 XT studio monitors are another popular example. As a result of the 8-inch low-frequency transducer onboard, these monitors are particularly useful for musicians or producers who need plenty of low-end power.
Headphones of the highest quality
To create a professional-level home recording setup, you need top-of-the-line headphones. The sound sources recorded in a professional studio include drum kits, vocal styles, powerful guitar and bass amplifiers, and more. The sound sensitivity of pro-grade headphones sets them apart from mid-range alternatives. The SPL (sound pressure level) of the headphones determines their ability to detect sound. A more sensitive pair of headphones can pick up and play back more details. In addition to mixing and fine-tuning your recordings, this will also allow you to spot all of the subtle details of a recording in real time, allowing you to tweak microphone positions and instrument settings accordingly.
A few recommendations
Home recording setups require noise-canceling headphones of the highest quality. With their brilliant Bose QuietComfort 35 II headphones, Bose proves that they are experts in this field. These headphones not only feature a convenient wireless design, but they also reject background noise with dual microphones. The Sony WH-1000XM4 headphones are highly recommended if you want to enjoy even better sound quality. Additionally, they feature touch-sensitive controls so you can pause or resume audio without having to be near your computer.
MIDI controllers and keyboards for professionals
Professional-level MIDI controllers must offer several improvements over mid-range options that enhance playability and enable you to control different aspects of your chosen DAW. When recording keyboard parts, you can express more feel by using semi-weighted keys, which feel more like real piano keys.
Voicing our recommendations
Featuring 88 semi-weighted keys and the ability to control DAW parameters through mapping, the M-Audio Keystation 88 MK3 is an excellent choice for keyboard players and pianists who want to create realistic-sounding MIDI tracks. If you’re more interested in sampling and drum programming, Akai Professional MPC Studio has an interesting LCD and 16 velocity-sensitive pads. If you like to trigger samples as part of your live performance, this device is ideal for hip-hop producers.
Cables for professionals
The stand counts of professional XLR cables are higher than those of midrange and affordable cables. Copper conductors within a microphone cable are made up of fine strands, and the more of these there are, the longer they will last. Similarly, professional instrument cables are likely to have right-angled connectors that increase their longevity. As a result of the inevitable wear and tear that occurs in a home studio, the inner components may also be wrapped in a protective material.
Voicing our recommendations
To capture all kinds of instruments and other sounds, professional studio setups require long XLR cables, which can be extended across the studio. With its extensive length and durable design, the Gearlux 25ft XLR is an ideal choice. It is highly recommended that you invest in a corrosion-resistant and tangle-resistant instrument cable like the Ernie Ball 10ft Instrument Cable when recording at a professional level.
DAWs & Recording Software for Professionals
The most important thing you can do to achieve professional-sounding recordings in your home studio is to purchase a suitable DAW. Compared to the less advanced DAWs discussed earlier, these offer significantly more processing tools, the capability to integrate external VST plugins of your choice, and intuitive layouts to simplify the recording process.
A few recommendations
The latest version of Steinberg Cubase Pro 10 offers 45 high-quality effects for processing recordings, as well as a variety of editing features. One of the best examples of a professional-grade DAW is Logic Pro. Logic Pro includes some of the best onboard effects units and MIDI instruments available to musicians, recording engineers, mixing engineers, and producers around the world. The Logic Pro software is not only great for mixing and processing audio, but it also allows you to record a limitless number of tracks to build your compositions if you are a musician.
Equipment of a professional level
For recording different instruments, amplifiers, or vocalists, professional-level microphones will last for many years and are much easier to adjust. A professional isolation shield and pop filter combination will help you record high-quality vocal takes. In contrast to cheaper pop filters, these accessories are easy to maneuver and are made from highly absorbent materials.
Voicing our recommendations
If you’re recording a variety of sound sources, you’ll need microphone stands of varying sizes. The Gator Frameworks Short Mic Stand is an outstanding choice for recording amplifiers or drums. The Gator Frameworks Standard Tripod Microphone Stand is ideal for recording vocals or overheads. The use of isolation shields improves the clarity of vocal recordings in professional recording studios. The Zosta Studio Isolation Shield & Pop Filter stands out due to its robust design and high-quality materials.
Setup for high-quality home recording
This final setup for home recording falls into the high-end category. This gear is truly exceptional in terms of performance, versatility, and sound quality. Investing in high-end recording equipment inevitably translates into a higher price, but if you want to make the highest-quality recordings, then it’s worth the investment.
The equipment I’m about to present to you is likely to be found in highly respected professional recording studios worldwide. It can, however, easily be integrated into a home setup. If you build your home studio using some of these devices, you’ll have all the tools you need to complete any recording project, no matter how ambitious.
Interfaces for high-end audio
In order to improve your home recording setup, a high-end audio interface is one of the best investments you can make. It would be an incredible privilege to own one of these extremely sophisticated devices in your home. A high-quality audio interface has somewhere between 10-20 inputs and outputs, so you can record anything from a live band to a full orchestra. The preamps are excellent, and the visuals make it easy to keep track of everything the interface does. Audio interfaces with 384 kHz sample rates are common. This is a significant upgrade over pro-level devices and ensures smooth, low-noise recordings.
A few recommendations
High-end audio interfaces are considerably more expensive than mid-level or professional options, but their wide range of features makes this price worth it. Roland’s UA-1010 Studio Capture has 10 inputs and 10 outputs, as well as several preamp presets. Steinberg’s AXR4T Thunderbolt 2 is another excellent high-end audio interface. AXR mic preamps with built-in SILK emulators, inspired by Rupert Neve’s legendary original. It offers no latency or noise issues when used.
Condenser microphones of the highest quality
For recording engineers or vocalists who strive for the best sound quality, high-end condenser microphones are ideal. Mic capsules, diaphragms, and chassis of these mics are of the highest quality, making them extremely efficient and robust. The high-end options feature several improvements over professional-level condenser mics. First of all, there may be more adjustable presets, such as attenuation levels for different sensitivities, so that you can tailor the mic to a specific instrument. Additionally, there will likely be EQ controls, which filter out certain frequency bands and improve recording clarity. Some high-end condenser mics come with as many as nine polar patterns!
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With its retro looks and many modern controls, the AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII is one of the best condenser microphones on the market. The Neumann TLM 102 MT is a portable, compact condenser microphone that can record vocals and acoustic instruments with remarkable detail. It has an SPL handling capacity of up to 144db, which is impressive for a condenser mic. Rode K2 is one of my favorite condenser microphones, renowned for its durability, open sound, and legendary dynamic range.
Dynamic microphones of the highest quality
The Shure SM57 and SM58 dynamic microphones listed earlier in this guide in the professional setup section are hard to beat. There are, however, a few high-end models that include internal shock mounting for reduced handling noise as well as improved internal pop filters for vocal recording.
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The Rode Procaster is a high-end dynamic microphone capable of recording vocals, amplified instruments, ambient sounds, and acoustic instruments equally well. A Shure SM7B dynamic microphone is an excellent choice for podcasting, voiceovers, and spoken word recordings. In the recording industry, it is used by many professionals and achieves a level of clarity unmatched by most dynamic mics. Check out our article on the microphone. You can find it here.
Monitors for high-end studios
Studio monitors for home recording setups are made of only the finest components. By the time you reach the professional level, you can expect to find transducers that use magnetic fields to smooth out the monitor’s response. High-end monitors also feature amplifier units that set them apart from the rest. Manufacturers are likely to match this component to the inbuilt transducers when designing amps, creating an astonishingly flat response throughout the frequency spectrum.
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Ideally, high-end monitors should project your recordings powerfully without coloring the sound. This requires premium-quality drivers, a large woofer for low-end clarity, and a capable tweeter that does not distort at high volumes. Although Adam Audio A7X significantly more expensive than most other studio monitors, you’ll realize they’re worth it once you hear the incredible sound they produce. Yamaha’s HS8I monitors are also worthy of consideration as high-end monitors. With 120W of output power and a larger woofer than the HS7s, these monitors are powerful.
Headphones of high quality
The sound quality of high-end headphones is stunning. You’ll be able to hear details in your recordings that you hadn’t even realized were there. Two important factors distinguish high-end headphones from professional-level headphones – impedance and frequency response. A high-quality headphone is likely to have an impedance of at least 300 Ohms, which significantly improves sound quality and clarity. You’ll hear more bass and treble frequencies when mixing or recording when your headphones have a broader frequency response range. It’s measured in Hz.
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In spite of their high price, high-end headphones provide undeniable benefits for home recording setups.
A high-end pair of headphones boasts an impressive level of sound quality and detail, as well as unique cup designs and absorbent materials. Sony MDRZ1R and Sennheiser HD 800 S are two of the best studio headphones money can buy. As both of these headphones have high-quality drivers and are remarkably comfortable, it’s hard to choose between them.
MIDI controllers and keyboards of the highest quality
A high-end MIDI controller is an absolute joy to use. Unlike professional keyboards with semi-weighted keys, these keyboards usually have hammer action keys, which feel almost identical to the keys on a real grand piano. Music producers can use this to create authentic-sounding key parts for their recordings. In addition to adjustable controls and features, these keyboards often include a multitude of features for storing presets, programming drum tracks, and even integrating samples.
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The M-Audio Hammer 88 Pro is a superb MIDI controller for home recording. With 88 weighted hammer action keys, this keyboard is similar to playing a piano, but it has a wealth of programmable controls enhanced by an LED display. Nektar DAW Controller is a brilliant high-end MIDI keyboard that is slightly more affordable. A touch-sensitive sample pad and an onboard mixer with fader controls make this device ideal for music production, even though it has fewer keys than the M-Audio offering. Lastly, it would be unfair not to mention Novation’s 61SL MkII. With an eight-track sequencer, you can use it to control every aspect of your DAW while recording synth parts.
Cables of the highest quality
Compared to professional-level cables, high-end cables have more twists than professional-level cables. Cable twists are also known as “the lay” – a term used to describe the distance between twists. It is also more flexible, which is great for home recording setups as you might need to keep the cables out of sight by routing them around other equipment.
A few recommendations
Multiple rooms require extensive cable lengths for home recording setups. For high-end setups, XLR cables, such as the Your Cable Store 150ft XLR, are a must-have, as the signal strength could be compromised. This Mogami Gold Studio-10 XLR is highly recommended if you don’t need such a length, but still want a high-quality XLR cable. Designed to minimize RF interference and promote clarity, this cable is among the best. For maximum clarity in your recordings, invest in a high-end instrument cable like the Fender Deluxe Instrument Cable that will last you for years.
Software & DAWs for High-End Recording
You can explore any home recording studio possibility with high-end DAWs.
Although these programs have many features, functions, and capabilities, they tend to be very easy to use, thanks to many years of design.
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In terms of recording live instruments, Ableton Live 11 and ProTools are the two best DAWs available today. After you master the basics, Ableton Live’s built-in effects are wonderful to use, and the software is highly intuitive. The industry-standard DAW for recording audio is ProTools. ProTools is an exclusive Mac product that is highly compatible without the use of outboard equipment such as effects units or analog devices.
Equipment of other high quality
Affordable mic stands and isolation shields are likely to break much more quickly than expensive, high-end items, so they are an investment. A high-quality mic stand is made from durable metal materials, and the screws holding it in place are of the highest quality to ensure that it stays in place. High-end isolation shields are made from dense foam materials and solid outer housings, with high-strength connectors that won’t move during recording.
A few recommendations
You’ll need a desk-mounted mic stand if you’re planning to record podcasts, voiceovers, or any other type of spoken work. For this type of recording, the Gator Frameworks Deluxe Desk Mounted Boom Stand is one of the best options, as it has an integrated XLR cable. Gator Frameworks ID Series Mic Stand, which folds into a compact unit and balances weight evenly across its three feet, makes a standout boom stand for recording instruments or vocals. Additionally, if you want the clearest, most professional-sounding vocal recordings, consider a high-end isolation booth. With its highly absorbent materials and vented metal backplate, the Monoprice Isolation Shield is a suitable choice.
Recording at Home: Essential Information
The practice of recording audio at home is incredibly rewarding, and there is no end to the learning process regardless of how experienced you become. “Grow your ear before your gear,” I said earlier. Musicians and producers are so fortunate to live in an era when high-quality audio can be recorded in the comfort of our own homes. So that the opportunity and privilege do not go to waste, we should create the best home recording setup possible. You’ll find additional information about setting up your home recording space in the remaining sections of this guide. There is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to music and audio, so consider experimenting with different approaches to find what works best for you as a musician, recording engineer, or producer.
Analog vs. digital
The original recording format, analog, shouldn’t be overlooked even though home recording setups are mostly digital. Analog recording equipment produces a warm, vintage sound that is still beloved by many musicians and producers today. Analog recording equipment processes the whole audio signal, while digital equipment essentially takes snapshots that combine to produce the final recording. The advantages of digital devices over analog devices should not be overlooked before buying a 1960s reel-to-reel tape recorder for your home studio. It is also very common for analog and digital equipment to be used simultaneously. The best way to record in the modern era would be to combine vintage analog gear with modern digital gear to get the best of both worlds. This article explains how (and why) to connect a mixer to another mixer for those of us who like to experiment. The tape might be incorporated into your recordings by outputting them from your DAW into a tape machine, then reimporting them. Guitar parts and vocals can also be recorded using analog outboard gear, such as reverbs and delay units. You can find out whether you still need a graphics card for music production in this article.
Acoustics of rooms
The acoustics of the room are very important when recording and mixing audio in a home studio. This is often overlooked, as many people underestimate the impact of room acoustics on their recordings. In the air, sound waves are compressed at a particular point when they travel. The sound pressure zone is the technical term for this point. A sound wave expands after compression and is called the “low-pressure zone”. Until the sound wave fades out into silence, this cycle repeats itself. A stamp is used to write all of this content. Our ears detect sound using its frequency, which is measured in Hertz (Hz). A sound with a frequency of 100Hz, which is relatively low, repeats the aforementioned cycle 100 times per second. Wavelength is measured by measuring the distance between the beginning of a cycle and the beginning of the following cycle.
How does this relate to your home recording space’s layout and acoustics?
Temperature and atmospheric pressure affect the velocity of sound waves in the air. As the room temperature rises from zero degrees Celsius to 332 degrees Celsius, the sound velocity in the air increases by 0.6 meters per second with each degree Celsius. Each surface in your home recording space reflects sound waves, which also causes standing waves, diffusion echos, and reverberations. You may experience “bass traps” if your home recording space is set up in a particular way. When lower frequencies reflect off surfaces, they are boosted and essentially merge, which can be problematic when mixing. Bass traps and unwanted standing waves can be prevented by using acoustic panels, which absorb many of the problem frequencies in the room. It is common for these panels to be made of an absorbent foam or fabric material, and they are relatively inexpensive considering the benefits they provide. You should also test out different positions for your studio monitors within your home recording setup. When you listen to your recordings through alternative speakers or headphones, certain frequencies may be more prominent due to the speaker placement, resulting in inaccurate mixing.
In order to get a good sound from your home recording setup, you don’t need to understand all the science behind room acoustics. Most of the time, all you need to do is pay attention to how the room sounds, and experiment with different layouts to find the most balanced positions.
Defining Your Requirements
It may seem obvious, but I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to plan your setup before buying equipment for home recording. With so much great gear available, you might end up spending unnecessarily on things that aren’t essential to the whole setup when assembling a home studio. If you plan out your studio and know the purpose of each item, you will avoid buying unnecessary devices or forgetting to purchase essential equipment. Recording engineers, producers, and musicians may require specific equipment to achieve their goals, while others may be able to achieve their goals with a more minimalist setup. It’s a good idea to do some pre-planning when assembling your home recording set up if you have a specific budget. In this way, you will avoid overspending or compromising on quality by choosing a cheaper item over a more advanced alternative.
Summary After reading through this detailed guide, you should now be equipped with the knowledge to begin choosing the best-suited equipment to form your home recording setup. Hope you have found the information helpful, and that you are able to build a recording studio in your home that inspires creativity for years to come!