Establishing a home studio can be intimidating. This list covers most basic gear found in beginner studio setups.
XLR cables are typically used to connect microphones with an audio interface and deliver balanced signals, while TRS (also known as TS, 1/4″ phono or guitar) cables provide unbalanced connections for connecting instruments and equipment.
Computer
Computers are essential in any home studio as they serve as the hub of everything. From desktops and laptops running either Mac OS or Windows to the latest models – as long as they provide sufficient processing power and RAM to run DAW (digital audio workstation) software as well as music production programs like Ableton Live.
DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) are like modern-day tape recorders and there are various models to choose from. Most professional studios use Pro Tools but it may be overkill for home recording setups – there are lots of affordable alternatives that will do exactly what Pro Tools does!
Your next essential for tracking and mixing is a high quality set of headphones for tracking and mixing. While studio monitors offer greater sound clarity, headphones may still allow for effective mixing if used effectively and can be more portable. A pair of good quality headphones will make listening back easy!
MIDI controllers are essential pieces of studio equipment for home recording. Connected to your computer, these allow you to play virtual instruments and effects in your DAW. They may come in the form of simple keyboard pads you can tap or complex instruments resembling guitars.
Your recordings require an excellent library of samples to add depth and texture, so be sure to obtain one that’s legally cleared for music use – using unauthorised material can lead to rejection by digital distribution services, or worse yet infringement lawsuits from them.
Monitors
Studio monitors are essential when creating, mixing and listening back to music. Studio monitors differ from Hi-Fi speakers in that they’re specially designed to accurately represent songs while having flat response so you can hear what the final mix will sound like in different rooms and locations.
First step to selecting studio monitors is deciding if you want passive or active monitors, with passive models requiring an external power amp for driving the speakers, while powered ones come equipped with built-in amplifiers for each speaker within their cabinet. Furthermore, near or far-field models are often ideal in small rooms while far field ones provide better performance in larger spaces as they help reduce reflections which could alter sound balance.
Once you know which monitors are right for your studio, it’s time to begin shopping around. Be sure to set a budget; studio monitors can become quite pricey over time. Most experts advise starting off with $200-$400 pair for home studio use as this gives an adequate starting point in terms of quality and features.
PreSonus Eris E5 studio monitors are an outstanding option for entry-level studio monitoring systems, featuring stunning looks and multiple adjustments that enable quick room tuning and offer a flat sound signature. KRK Rokit series 4 speakers also make an outstanding choice, boasting great low end response while boasting neutral tonality.
Speaker Stands
Speaker stands provide your speakers with the ideal height to ensure optimal audio playback. In addition, they serve as a sturdy foundation that prevents them from moving around when playing music – plus come in various sizes and designs that accommodate specific speaker models!
Consider both weight and material when selecting a stand. A heavier stand will do a better job at dampening vibrations to ensure your speakers sound their best; however, this could make it bulky and costly.
If your budget is limited, consider acquiring a lightweight yet sturdy stand that can support your speakers. Look out for models featuring built-in vibration pads to reduce reverberation and enhance studio audio quality.
Make sure that the opening for your speaker wires fits within your stand’s pillar opening; many speaker stands have cable entry openings that let cords pass through and exit at the base, keeping them out of sight and organized – preventing unsightly cords from hanging off your stand!
If you don’t mind spending more on speakers, invest in stylish speaker stands that blend metal and wood into an appealing design. Or consider creating your own speaker stands for less by upcycling an old lamp or piece of furniture; these DIY speaker stands are beautiful additions that would look fantastic in any modern studio space!
Headphones
Headphones are essential when it comes to monitoring mixes. A high-quality pair of studio headphones will enable you to hear all the subtle nuances in your audio tracks – especially at lower frequencies. Studio headphones may not look flashy or cheap but are constructed for professional use so that they provide quality sound while remaining comfortable to wear for prolonged listening sessions.
Your chosen headphones should feature an accurate frequency response that mimics how sound is reproduced by human ears. Frequency responses are displayed on headphone packaging and demonstrate how much of each range of sounds they can reproduce with ease.
Typically, headphones with higher frequency response are better at reproducing lower tones like bass and treble. Home recording producers usually opt for headphones that have neutral frequency responses in order to make accurate mixing decisions.
Most studio headphones are closed-back, meaning that they’re designed to block out external noise and keep audio from bleeding into microphones during recordings. Although this feature can be particularly helpful in home studio environments, some people may find closed-back headphones fatiguing after extended wear time.
Apart from headphones, it’s wise to keep a variety of adapters – like an XLR to TRS cable, an AUX cord (3.5mm to 3.5mm wire) and a MIDI cable – on hand for connecting headphones, mic, mixers and other studio equipment.
Studio Desk
Studio desks are essential pieces of furniture that help keep you organized and focused in the studio, whether you are an established recording artist or just beginning. A good home studio desk will ensure enough room for equipment while offering comfortable working conditions – take some time researching all your options before making your selection!
Home studio desks should be constructed from sturdy materials like wood or metal and should have plenty of storage space to organize all of your gear and accessories in an easily accessible location. Make sure the desk you select matches well with your studio decor while providing ample room for monitors and keyboards – or look into music production desks with features designed to facilitate workflow, such as built-in racks or second tier for keyboard placement.
On-Stage offers the WS7500 workstation as an attractive studio desk option that will blend in perfectly with any home studio’s decor. Featuring a large main surface area, second shelf for monitors/computers/keyboard tray support and heavy duty steel frames to support all your equipment, this stylish studio desk will be an invaluable part of your studio setup.
Output’s Platform home studio desk is another top choice when it comes to studio desks. Crafted of 100% birch wood for its natural finish and boasting many features – 9U rack space, keyboard tray, cable management – this stunning desk is an excellent way for music professionals looking for comfort, functionality and style all-in-one package.