
For amplifiers and acoustic instruments, microphones can be used to direct the signal straight into your interface and DAW. With these, you can record the signal directly into your interface or connect to an amplifier. Musical Instrumentsĭrums, guitars, bass, amps, piano, horns…the list goes on! Some instruments are electronic. Pop filters are crucial for professional vocals. The pop filter allows the sound to pass but stops the wind blast from getting through to the microphone. These artifacts are the strong, popping sounds made by singers using hard consonants such as “P”, “K”, “T”, etc. Pop filters save your recordings by helping to eliminate plosives. Note that any of the above types can be used on most instruments or voices.

Dynamic microphones are durable, punchy-sounding, and less sensitive, so they are great for drums and noisier environments. Ribbon microphones are smooth but darker, so they work well on bright sources that need taming, like trumpets, tambourines, or guitars. Ribbon and dynamic mics generally do not need power. Condenser microphones are often bright and sensitive, and require a power source. Microphones break down into three basic categories: condensers, ribbons, and moving-coil (more commonly known as dynamic). You don’t necessarily need to spend much money to get great quality. Look for models that completely cover your ears and are comfortable for long stretches. Mixing and mastering engineers will want a pair of open-back headphones for a flatter, more natural frequency response. Look for durable, closed-back headphones to minimize bleed into the microphone for recording. HeadphonesĪ staple in every studio, headphones help record and mix. Some computers allow you to upgrade later, but some do not. Producers who use a lot of virtual instruments will want to make sure to get as much RAM as possible. Faster processing power will allow you to do more, and it’s better to have spare power than to be stuck without it. Computers have a finite shelf-life, so while a used model may save you money in the short run, you’ll have to replace it sooner. However, some are platform-specific, such as Logic which only runs on Apple computers. The decision for Mac or PC is entirely up to you as most software programs run on both. Desktop Computer or LaptopĪ quality, fast computer is the centerpiece of any modern studio. Here’s the list of sound recording equipment: You’ll only need a few basic things for your studio and, with a lot of patience and research, you will be able to find the right pieces of equipment to suit your needs and preferences.

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t always need the loudest speakers, the most expensive microphone, or even the biggest mixer with millions of sliders and knobs-although you do need to worry about soundproofing your room. Setting up your own home recording studio is super easy.
