Purchasing the right studio recording equipment can be a daunting task. This is especially true for those just getting into the industry. Most often someone has a friend or relative who has a home studio who can assists with the setup. Unfortunately, although their attempts to help are good, they are often mis-informed. Phrases like, "I only record on a MAC because it sounds better," are heard all too often. There’s a reason top recording engineers and producers get paid so well. They know their recording equipment and software. You don’t have to spend a fortune for quality recordings, but you do need to know what to look for and how to use it. The following list should help you get started in your research. Our lead contributors have over 20 years experience in professional recording and are here to ensure you get the most out of your musical endeavors.
Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)
One of the most important pieces of equipment in today’s recording studio will be the computer that you use. Digital is here to stay and we’re here to help you get most of today’s music recording needs. The first decision that needs to be made is whether you want to record on a MAC or PC. This decision is based on personal preference. Both MAC’s and PC’s are used in professional studios around the world. [Information on the pros and cons of MAC's and PC's] If you’re using a PC you also have the option to build a computer for recording. Regardless of which platform you choose you will want to make sure your computer is fast enough for audio production. If you already have a digital interface or recording suite that you plan on using make sure it’s compatible with your computer. Read more about DAW Performance and Compatibility.
Recording Software
Most professional audio engineers use a professional software package such as [Digidesign Pro Tools], [Steinberg Neuendo], [Cubase], [Apple Logic] or a similar well respected software package. These are just a few of the popular recording packages used for both professional and home recordings. However there are a number of other recording suites such as Wavosaur, Sonic, Audacity, among others some of which be downloaded for free. Choosing a recording software package is largely based on personal preference, however if you’re just starting you may be interested in reading about the differences between the top 5 audio recording suites. Bottom line: Professional audio engineers use Digidesign Pro Tools, Stienberg, or Apple Logic or a comparable professional software package 99% of the time. More about Recording Studio Software.
Digital Interface
The Digital Audio Interface connects your microphone and/or DI (Direct Inject) along with MIDI signal if it an available option. In most home studios it’s also what converts the analog signal from a microphone or instrument to digital signal which your DAW interprets. Many interfaces have ports for MIDI devices such as a keyboard or drum pad. This decision depends on a of the manufacture of the interface so be sure to check the spec’s of the interface. Pro Tools users will need to use a digidesign certified interface. (Popular models are Mbox2, or the Mbox Mini) For Cubase, Logic and other software a commonly used audio interface is the Apogee Duet or Rosetta. There is a enormous number of digital interfaces ranging from $50 to $15,000. Researching for the correct interface can be tedious, but choose the right one for you’re application pays the price of the time spent. [Top 5 digital interfaces for the studio] Read more about Digital Interface Types.
Microphones
There are endless amounts of studio microphones available ranging in price from $50 to well over $10,000. Choosing a quality studio microphone is an important step to gaining the best recording results. There are various types and flavors when choosing microphones including dynamic, ribbon, and condenser. Vocals traditionally will sound cleanest when using a condenser microphone, while dynamic and ribbons microphones give a large degree of color to recordings. The microphone that sounds best for you may not sound best for someone else, so it’s important to choose the right one for your application. We’ve done a review of the best 5 home studio microphones under $300 which is a good starting point for someone looking to buy their first studio microphone. Read more about Studio Microphones types.
Monitors
Studio Speakers are know as monitors in the recording industry. These are not your standard speakers. They are an important equipment investment for any studio. After all, the end result of your recording is playback. It’s crucial that your studio monitors give an accurate representation of how the music will sound to your listeners. We’ve reviewed some of the best studio monitors in the low, mid, and high price categories. Read more about Studio Monitors (Speakers) and how to choose the best for your studio.
Headphones
Headphones are a necessity for every studio. They are used by the musicians and recording engineers for tracking and playback. A good pair will be comfortable, and give an accurate representation of your music. Often the music type you are working with will determine how much use your headphones get. Headphone reviews and recommendations are available here. Read more about how to choose the right set of Studio Headphones.
Cables
One of the most overlooked piece of studio recording equipment are studio cables. Quality cables are extremely important for a clean signal chain. Inferior and improperly terminated cables can ruin an otherwise great recording. Bad cables can cause static, popping noises, and cut-outs, along with RFI (Radio Frequency Interference) and EMI (Electromagnetic Interference). In short the extra cost for good cables is important. Many small studios do not spend enough time choosing the correct cables for their application. Choosing the right studio cables.
MIDI Devices (Music Instrument Digital Interface)
Midi Keyboards, and other devices are found in many recording studios. These devices can replace keyboard strokes with millions of sounds. They are used extensively when creating hip-hop beats and have thousands of other sound applications. We’ve reviewed the top 5 most popular midi keyboards to give you a starting point in your research.