8 Essentials To Start a Home Studio

Hey guys, this is my first introduction post.

I'm a musician recording songs in a home studio and I thought I could share some of my experience with music production.  

Maybe you are thinking that building up a home studio is too complicated? That you will need a lot of gear, a huge mixing table like those you see in big studios and spend all your savings?  

 Well, creating a home studio is far easier than you think. All you need to start is a few pieces of gear that won't cost you a huge amount of money. And in this post, I'll tell you the exact list of what to get:   

1. A Computer 

2. DAW/Audio Interface 

3. Microphone 

4. Headphones 

5. Studio Monitors 

6. 2 cables 

7. One Mic Stand 

8. A Pop Filter     

These are the basic elements to start with to create good quality recordings. Something your friends will say ''Wow, that sounds professional!'' Also, it's a great foundation to build upon later as you develop your skills.      

1. A Computer

By far this is the most expensive item you'll have to get. But everyone already has a computer nowadays, so I recommend using what you have for now. I use a MacBook Pro and it works fine. It's also good because you can move it around (inside the closet for example - I'll write a post later about acoustics and why the closet is a good space to record vocals).   

2. DAW/Audio Interface   

The DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) is the software used to record, edit and mix your music. The Audio Interface is the hardware used to connect your computer to the microphone. You can get them separately, but I recommend you buying the combo because it's cheaper. These are some options: Pro Tools DUET or Focusrite Scarlett

3. Microphone   

I would start with a condenser vocal mic, because with it you are able to record vocals and acoustic instruments. Here are some options to start with:  · AKG Perception 220 (I use this one) or Rode NT1A · Bluebird Condenser   

4. Headphones   

Most people already have phones, but they aren't suitable for a home studio. You need to hear the frequencies clearly, so I recommend you buy a professional one. I use the Sony MDR-7506 and highly recommend them, they have a clear sound and balanced frequencies.        

5. Studio Monitors   

You don't really need them to start with, but I'm writing it down so you don't forget it on the long run. Most people listen to music on headphones nowadays, so mixing with your headphones is fine to begin with. This is a good option in the long run: KRK Rokit 5    

6. Cables   

To start you should get only 2 cables: 1 long XLR cable for your mic and 1 TRS cable for instruments like guitars. Just check to see if the stereo output of your audio interface has XLR connectors. Sometimes they use TRS.    

7. A mic stand   

You need it to free your hands while singing and playing the guitar. And most importantly, you shouldn't be holding the mic because your fingers generate noise. So the mic stand is perfect for that. Make sure you get a strong and reliable one.    

8. Pop filters  

The purpose of a pop filter is to filter-out  the ''P'' and ''B'' sounds. They are not essential items, but they help a lot, especially if you are still mastering the art of singing in front of a mic.    

Well, these are my tips for starting a home studio. Now you can go and start recording your own songs and developing yourself as a music producer! 

Please let me know if you have any questions in the comments below.