How To Build A Home Recording Studio On A Budget
Building a small home recording studio on a budget is not as difficult as it sounds. Today we are going to list everything you need to get started. We are also going to suggest the best budget equipment on the market today that wont break the bank.
1. The Computer
The computer is most likely the most expensive piece of equipment you will have to buy. Having a good computer is essential to any home recording studio. Recording software such Pro Tools requires a lot of RAM, so you’ll need to make sure that you buy a decent, fast computer. Many studios that we have visited don’t really have a preference as to which computer they use (Mac or PC). Many recording programs are able to run on both operating systems as long as it can handle the high processing speed that they demand. Check out our past articles to help you choose the right computer for you.
2. The Recording Software
The right software is the heart of any recording studio. Choosing the best one that fits your needs can vary. The industry standard is Pro Tools but it is not your only option. Propellerhead’s Reason and Stienberg’s Cubase are two other great audio recording software programs on the market. They all do the same basic functions but are very different when it comes their plugins and extras. Check out our past article on choosing the best audio recording software.
Best Audio Recording Software For PC & Mac
3. The Audio Interface
The audio interface is what you will be using in conjunction with your recording software. Your microphone plugs directly into your interface and allows you to adjust vocal and headphone levels. It’s the “command center” of your studio and allows easy adjustments when needed. Their are many audio interfaces on the market today, some better than others. Check out our past article on choosing the best budget audio interface.
4. The Studio Monitors
A good pair of studio monitors is just as important as anything else in your home studio. Picking the right ones will help you mix and record properly. There are countless monitors you can buy, but finding the best sounding at the cheapest price is not easy. Have no fear though, we did extensive research and found the best monitors you can buy when you’re on a budget. Check out our past article on the best budget studio monitors.
Top 5 Studio Monitors On A Budget
5. The Microphone
A recording studio cannot have just any microphone. There are various different mics for various different purposes. The right microphone for your home studio will depend on your needs. For most home studios, recording vocals would be the main reason for your mic. In this case, a condensing microphone is the way to go. We compiled a list of the best budget condensing microphones on the market today.
Best Budget Condensing Microphones
6. The Acoustic Treatment
Acoustically treating your home studio is extremely important. Placing acoustic panels in the right parts of your home studio will diffuse unwanted noise and give an overall better playback experience. We have compiled several great articles that will help you choose the best acoustic panels when you’re on a budget, as well as how and where to place them. Most professional studios have a full blown vocal booth, but when you’re on a budget setting one up is very hard. There are several cheaper options that you can turn to such as purchasing a vocal reflection filter. Setting up your home studio with the right acoustic panels as well as having a good vocal reflection filter will get you the best results at the cheapest price. Check out our past articles on acoustic treatments.
Where To Place Acoustic Panels In Your Home Studio
Which Studio Foam Is Best For Home Recordings
Best Portable Vocal Booths & Reflection Filters
This is the basic equipment you’ll need to set up your home recording studio. Keep in mind that you will also need cables, headphones, mic stands, studio desks, etc. All of which can be purchased at a cheap price. Check out some of our other past articles to help you along the way.
If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Also, don’t forget to like this page and share it with your aspiring producer, engineer and artist friends!
Author: Rudy Vibes
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