Many of today’s most acclaimed musicians are forgoing professional studios in favor of producing music in their garages or bedrooms, which has garnered critical acclaim as much as that produced by Foo Fighters or Owl City.
Home recording bundles typically include an audio interface, microphone and monitors as well as DAW software and special Focusrite-emulating software.
PreSonus Audiobox 96
The PreSonus Audiobox 96 is an affordable studio bundle featuring a USB-powered interface, microphone and headphones – ideal for beginners looking to record music at home or singer/songwriters who require portable solutions when performing live. Furthermore, YouTubers who seek high-quality sound recordings may find this bundle beneficial as well.
The AudioBox 96 features two combo mic/line XLR inputs, one hi-z 1/4″ TRS instrument input, two main outputs for connecting speakers or headphones and two USB bus-powered main outputs that connect directly to speakers or headphones. It can support MIDI and is extremely rugged and durable – its only shortcoming being limited input/output channels which could prove challenging when recording multiple people at the same time.
Though its capabilities may be limited, the AudioBox 96 still provides professional-grade 24-bit, 96kHz conversion in a compact bus-powered enclosure. Additionally, its XMAX-L mic preamps based on those found in PreSonus StudioLive mixers offer excellent mic preamp performance while its converters deliver wide dynamic range monitoring so your recordings are instantly audible after being captured.
AudioBox 96’s compact and rugged metal body is constructed of premium grade metal, available in either black or silver finishes for optimal use with Mac and PC computers running any DAW software – PreSonus Studio One Artist DAW is included so you can start multitrack recordings instantly!
The M7 professional-grade condenser microphone in this package is perfect for most vocal and instrumental recordings, thanks to its warm sound with slight top end boost and scooped midrange, as well as PreSonus HD7 headphones which offer outstanding comfort and sound reproduction. Furthermore, AudioBox 96 should work automatically with your computer; however, to ensure compatibility and updated drivers, install PreSonus Universal Control app (UCAP).
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB recording interface offers everything needed for home studio setup in one convenient package. Equipped with two combo inputs that can record both microphone and instrument recordings simultaneously and an output for monitoring recordings, this user-friendly unit makes an excellent choice for beginner users.
This device boasts an elegant, modern design in its red brushed steel casing that’s both sturdy and portable, weighing only one pound for easy travel. Compatible with Mac, Windows and Linux computers with USB-C ports available as well as newer devices, it features preamps designed to produce high-quality audio such as warm vocals with minimal background noise while being extremely energy efficient consuming less power than competing interfaces.
Scarlett 2i2 features two monitor outputs that can be connected directly to headphones or speakers, making this ideal for headphones or speakers. The monitor switch enables zero-latency monitoring – an invaluable feature when tracking vocals or acoustic instruments – and direct monitor mode which routes audio directly from input directly into headphones or speaker outputs for reduced latency when mixing.
Scarlett 2i2 comes equipped with an extensive software bundle, featuring starter versions of Pro Tools and Ableton Live as well as Softube and Avid plugins, a three-month subscription to Splice for royalty-free one-shots and loops, plus more.
The Scarlett 2i2 offers many features designed to assist novice producers. Its internal clock provides stability enough for use without external power sources; additionally, its headphone output lets you hear back your recordings immediately; plus its compact size makes it perfect for portable recording setups.
Mackie CR3-X
The Mackie CR3-X Studio Monitors offer high quality flat sound at an economical price, featuring a compact 3-inch woofer and various useful features that make them suitable for beginners as home studio monitors as well as casual music listening on desktop computers.
The CR3-X has an eye-catching appearance that will draw people’s attention in any room it enters. Featuring a classic black finish with an eye-catching brushed metal panel on its front face and a green LED that illuminates when power is on, this unique model stands out in any setting. While its eye-catching appearance may not suit minimalist studio environments as much, this unique piece may appeal to those seeking something a bit different.
The CR3-X offers an impressive variety of input options, such as headphone output on its front panel and RCA and stereo auxiliary input. This gives you plenty of versatility when choosing music sources – something rarely found at this price range.
The Mackie CR3-X employs a class AB amplifier, which helps keep distortion low. They can deliver up to 50 watts, divided equally among all four speakers for an impressive amount of bass energy and loudness that is perfect for small studio environments.
Another exciting feature is its built-in headphone amplifier. This means you can plug headphones in and listen to music without disturbing anyone else. Furthermore, Bluetooth compatibility gives even more connectivity options; though its quality may not match that of cables. Unfortunately, however, the CR3-X doesn’t offer any tuning options; many software programs exist which help adjust speakers.
Tascam Trackpack 2×2
The Trackpack contains everything needed to start recording straight out of the box, from an entry-level USB 2 audio interface from the same product line as the US20x20 to a studio condenser microphone perfect for vocals and guitar, a compact desktop stand, closed back headphones and Cakewalk SONAR X3 LE/Ableton Live Lite DAW software.
Tascam’s inaugural all-in-one bundle offers everything you need for recording at an attractive price point.
Tascam US products follow in their footsteps with this interface, featuring two inputs for instruments and microphones as well as phantom power on one input to accommodate higher-powered mics. Its build is solid and robust with end plates providing extra height when sitting on your desk for easier access to its controls.
Apart from its microphone inputs, the US-2×2 features a pair of stereo outputs for monitor speakers as well as two standard TRS line outputs that can connect external mics or instruments. Furthermore, its MIDI in/out ports may prove valuable to users looking to integrate it with synths or drum machines.
Installation is straightforward with drivers available for Mac and Windows that comply with class-compliant plug-and-play operation, including ASIO compatibility on Windows platforms and DAW software with full feature set on Macs.
The US-2×2 offers impressive sonic quality for an extremely budget-friendly price point, featuring two Ultra-HDDA mic preamps which deliver impressive clarity while remaining non-coloristic in your source recordings. Furthermore, its interface handles hot guitar pickups without issue so even your most demanding tracks will play out loud and clear when played back through home speakers.
As an added feature, the US-2×2 comes equipped with latency-free monitoring to make hearing your work while recording easier than ever before. This makes recording vocals and guitar much more accurate; and adds significantly to sound quality of recordings overall. A great feature that distinguishes this model.