Essential Equipment Of A Home Recording Studio (2024)

There are several different ways to set up a home recording studio. This could be very challenging and paralyzing for those new to home recording. However, knowing what basic and the essential equipment you require can make set up a lot easier because the truth is that most people are of the belief that you need a really huge budget to set up a studio.

Well, that’s correct if you are setting up a standard, commercial studio. But then, to configure your decent home studio, you don’t have to break the bank. You do not have to get frustrated or confused about the things you need to get started.

This article will highlight the basic and essential things you require and some of these things you already have. With the following items below, you can setup a simple home studio for anyone new to home recording.

  • A decent computer
  • DAW (digital audio workstation)
  • Audio interface
  • Quality Microphone(s)
  • Studio monitor speakers
  • Cables
  • Headphones
  • Pop filter
  • Mic stand

1. A decent computer

computer

You probably already own a computer. But if you are thinking of getting a separate computer from your personal one, then you can pick from these options:

Mac, PC desktop or laptop; anyone is good, it’s all about choice. The most important thing is to go for that one you find more convenient and feel more comfortable working with. You should try to get as much RAM as possible because this will definitely make recording much easier and faster.

2. DAW (digital audio workstation)

DAW

This is a program/software used for recording, editing, and sometimes mixing and mastering music on your computer. There are so many options you can pick from like; audition, sonar, Cubase, reason, pro tools, studio one, etc. just get one you can afford and supports your computer.

3. A good audio interface

audio interface

This is the device that helps you connect your computer to other equipment like your guitar, microphone, keyboard, etc. Most DAW is compatible with any type of audio interface so just settle for one that is reasonably priced, preferably two-channel interfaces. Some of these audio interfaces include; M-audio M-track plus II, universal audio Apollo twin, PreSonus audiobox, apogee ONE, Mackie onyx blackjack and more.

4. Quality Microphone(s)

microphone

Microphones are very important but for a start, you only need one or two mics and as time goes on you may decide to purchase more mics for specific purposes. For vocal recording, you may want to go for the classic large diaphragm condenser vocal microphone but then, you really do not have to spend more than $100 on a mic.

5. Studio monitor speakers

Studio monitor speakers

To hear the sound of your recordings, you need a pair of good quality monitor speakers. Despite the fact that most people now use the headphones for this purpose, studio monitor speakers still deliver flatter frequency responses that provide a greater neutral sound that helps judge your mix objectively.

There are several high-quality studio monitors out there but then, you should get one that is affordable. Do not buy more than you need.

6. Cables

Cables

At a certain point, your studio will require so many XLR cables but for a start, you will only need three; “two short XLR cables for your studio monitors” and “one long XLR cable for your microphone”.

Make sure your audio interface has XLR connectors before you purchase your studio monitor cables. If your audio interface uses a TRS cable, then you will have to get the right cables suitable. Good quality microphone cables can be quite expensive but you can always find good ones that fall in a reasonable price range.

7. Headphone

Headphone

You can record and listen to your mixes on your headphones. At times it can be a little challenging but it can be done. As a matter of fact, some people find it more convenient than monitors. You can start with the headphones until you can afford the studio monitors.

There are two designs of headphone considered to be standard for studio purposes

  • The open-back headphones used for mixing – this gives you excellent sound quality at the expense of reduced isolation.
  • The closed-back headphones for tracking – this gives you excellent isolation at the expense of reduced sound quality.

For those new to home recording, the closed-back headphones are really necessary.

8. Pop filter

Pop filter

The pop filter filters out unpleasant vocal sounds called “popping”. It occurs when the “B” and “P” sounds are pronounced. This is also a necessity for your studio and they are quite cheap.

9. Mic stand

Mic stand

A quality mic stand is one gadget you cannot afford to overlook for your new home studio. The qualities of mic stands vary with their prices. A solid mic stand can be a little expensive but if you are on a tight budget, you can always go for a cheap, reliable mic stand.

If you get these components, you will have a decent and functional home studio. You will also have all the professional equipment you need to create great sounds. Take your time to learn and master this equipment and you will see great results in no time.

Bestseller No. 1
PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary Studio Recording Bundle with Studio One Artist DAW Music...
  • Everything you need to record and produce at home in a single purchase.
  • Rugged AudioBox USB 96 audio/MIDI interface for recording vocals and instruments.
  • Versatile M7 large-diaphragm condenser microphone; ideal for vocals, acoustic instruments, and more.
  • HD7 headphones let you mix, monitor, and produce without bothering your roommates.
  • Studio One Artist and Studio Magic included—that’s over $1000 USD of professional audio software.
Bestseller No. 2
Presonus AudioBox 96 USB Audio/MIDI Interface with CR3-X Creative Reference Multimedia Monitors and...
  • Records at up to 24-bit/96kHz professional-standard digital resolution
  • Studio One Artist and Studio Magic Plug-in Suite included
  • CR monitors deliver a combination of high-quality components and professional build quality typically only found on more expensive studio monitors....
  • Legendary Mackie acoustic tuning means every pair of CR-X monitors will give you the studio sound you’re looking for
  • LyxPro Studio-Grade Mesh Microphone Pop Filter Improves Vocal Recording Quality & Eliminates Harsh Plosive Sounds
Bestseller No. 3
Dmsky Microphone Isolation Shield with Pop Filter & Tripod Stand, Foldable Mic Shield with Triple...
  • 【Excellent noise reduction】Triple Sound Insulation,foldable Microphone Isolation with reflective layer+filter layer+absorbing layer.the...
  • 【Durable& Flexibility】Mic stand with isolation shield Constructed out of premium steel to ensure sturdiness, and long lasting performance.The...
  • 【Safety & Adjustable】Microphone isolation shield is equipped with a heavy-duty tripod, so there is no need to worry about the risk of unstable...
  • 【Easy to Installation】Only take minutes to unfold this recording studio equipment, The 5 folding microphone shield panels are adjustable at...
  • 【Intimate Details】There is an adjuster behind the microphone isolation shield studio microphone music recording, which can easily adjust the...
Bestseller No. 4
Portable Foldable Recording Vocal Booth Studio Equipment for Crisp Dry Echo Free Vocals at Home & On...
  • ✅ Enhanced Vocal Booth with Premium Blankets: With the backing of our advanced portable vocal booth and upgraded soundproofing blankets, your...
  • ✅ User-Friendly Setup: Creating a recording space has never been this straightforward. Our portable recording studio features a user-friendly...
  • ✅ Effortless Storage and Easy Mobility: Our soundproof recording booth is designed for quick and hassle-free storage. Simply remove the...
  • ✅ Spacious and Comfortable Design: Tailored for one to two individuals, our vocal booth provides a cozy recording space. With ample headroom for...
  • ✅ Comprehensive Recording Package: Equipped with a versatile phone/tablet holder, conveniently foldable frame, and storage bag, creating an...
Bestseller No. 5
Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio 4th Gen Recording Bundle
  • Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio 4th Gen USB Interface - CM25 MkIII Condenser Microphone - SH-450 Headphones - USB-A to USB-C Cable - XLR Cable (3m) -...
  • Scarlett mic pre: Get great sound from any microphone with Solo's detailed ultra-low-noise mic pre
  • Hi-Z instrument input: Plug straight in and guitars sound and feel great - perfect for using with amp sims
  • Huge 120dB dynamic range: Scarlett Solo uses the same converters as Focusrite's flagship Rednet interfaces, found in countless high-end studios...
  • Air Mode: Record with all the character of a big studio console. Add high-end presence and rich harmonic drive to vocals and instruments

Related Products:

Best Digital Mixer for Recording Studio

Best Condenser Microphones Under $200

FAQ:

Q: How to build your own recording studio at home?

A: Define your Needs. The first thing you need to determine is what your needs are. … Studio Essentials. There are going to be basic things your studio is going to need regardless of whether you are an amateur or a professional. Build The Studio Of Your Dreams. There is a lot to do once you have the equipment bought. … Conclusion. …

Q: How to set up your home recording studio?

A: Take everything out of the room that you can. Clear up as much floor space as possible,and take down any paintings,posters,or anything else that is on the … Set up your acoustic panels and bass traps. Arrange your desk/work area to your liking. Arrange the rest of your room as you see fit.

Q: What is the best home recording equipment?

A: A beautifully acoustically designed tracking room,control room and iso rooms. An array of vintage and modern microphones,like Neumann U47,U87,U67,KLM84,RCA Ribbons,EV RE20s,AKG C12s,etc… An array of preamplifiers like Neve,API,Millenia,Manley,

Q: How to set up a professional grade home recording studio?

A: Choose the right music recording software. … Create your own compositions using MIDI. … Choose the best microphones for home recording. … Learn how to record vocals. … Learn how to record drums. … Learn how to record other instruments. … Learn how to mix audio and effects. … Learn how to use plugins. …