Did you start making music?
But it did not sound anything like what you will listen to on Spotify or Apple music. No big surprise there.
If your phone microphone can capture your music, then recording studios will be bankrupt. But paying a recording studio might make you go bankrupt. Now we do not want that.
There is a third option where no one goes bankrupt. That is buying essential equipment every beginner requires to record their song.
Since the rise of websites where you can perform free music promotion artists can finally focus their finances on music making. As a beginner, we suggest you invest your money in good quality equipment and produce quality music.
This guide is your one-stop solution to know what you need to buy. Let’s get started then.
Computer
It does not matter if you have a MAC or a PC. If it was built after 2005, it is capable of fulfilling your needs. It has 50 times the power you require to process your recording and mix it with music.
If you have a laptop with more than 6 GB of RAM and 250 GB of hard drive capacity with multiple USB ports and HDMI ports, you are set.
On the odd chance that you do not have a laptop, we suggest buying a MAC with 16 GB RAM or its PC equivalent.
Digital Audio Workstations (DAW)
Just like you require applications like Zoom for attending meetings and classes, you require DAW to effectively edit your music.
Similarly, you cannot edit your music on a laptop without using Digital Audio Workstations.
DAWs are used to record, edit, mix recordings with music, and create high-quality music that people love.
Our suggestion is to check out the Pro Tools from Avid. There is the free access version of Pro Tools, which is the industry standard of music production. Pro Tools is capable of writing up to 16 tracks and recording tracks and instruments simultaneously. It further aids mixing on an unlimited amount of busses and provides 1 GB of cloud storage.
Audio Interface
Audio Interface is an external sound card that connects to your mobile or laptop devices.
Most laptops and computers do not have enough power for microphones if you connect them directly. There is also the problem of latency when you directly connect these two.
An audio interface is used to connect analog and digital devices to provide high-quality input and output sounds.
When buying an audio interface, make sure to check the type of inputs it has. The audio resolution should not be less than 24-bit/ 96 kHz.
We recommend buying the Focusrite Scarlet 2i2. For a relatively low price point, it records music crisp and clear with minimal latency. It has a durable exterior and is worth the purchase.
Studio Monitors
Studio Monitors are a necessity for every musician so that they can record and play back their music.
You can consider buying active nearfield studio monitors since they are so convenient to use. You need zero technical knowledge to operate them, and they are easily portable.
We recommend buying Samson MediaOne BT3. It has smooth sound quality and is the best option for people on a budget. We recommend placing the monitors 3-4 feet from each other and yourself for best results. You can also add isolation pads underneath the monitors to reduce vibrations caused by the bass.
Studio Headphones
Your regular or gaming headphones are not going to cut because of their sonic balancing.
Studio headphones aid in outputting the minor colored tones so that you do not exaggerate them while mixing.
When looking for good studio headphones, make sure to avoid Bluetooth headphones and “style” headphones. Bluetooth headphones diminish audio fidelity and are not suitable for musicians. At the same time, style headphones have distorted dynamics. These are great options when you want to know how the general audience hears your song.
We suggest the Sennheiser headphones have the best sound quality and have a fast transient response.
Microphone
Microphones help capture sounds and convert them into a digital signal.
You can choose from two different types of microphones, condenser and dynamic microphones.
The condenser microphones are preferred for home studios. They are extremely sensitive; therefore, background sound bleeding can happen.
The dynamic microphones are rugged ones that are used for on-stage performances. They are cheaper, hardier, and preferred when recording audio in noisy environments.
We suggest the AKG C414 in the condenser microphone and Shure SM7B in the case of a dynamic microphone.
MIDI Controller
Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) comes in the form of traditional keyboards. In simple terms, it helps in communication between the physical hardware and the digital systems.
It is a unique and invaluable tool in your home studio.
We suggest the Novation Launchpad, which is an excellent tool at lower price points.
Sample Service
Samples are existing sound recordings that are cut up into audio clips.
This helps avoid the confusion associated with selecting pieces, and for a rate, you can access a specific or unlimited number of audio clips.
You can listen to unlimited samples, download one you like, drag it to your DAW, and begin editing. No audio is off-limits to you.
You can select ones like Noizz, Splice and Loopmasters. Each contains its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Compare them to find a sample service that best suits your needs.
Conclusion
Setting up a home studio is only the first step in your music-making journey.
We know you face dilemmas and question how to promote your music for free or at a minimum expense.
Remember that free music platforms for artists have risen in the last few decades. People can listen to your songs and become fans with the right amount of promotion on your side.
So buckle up and get ready for the journey. There will be ups and downs on your journey, but it will be one hell of a ride. We can assure you of it.
