Pro studio monitors differ from consumer speakers by having a flat response and can begin at 10 grand for a decent pair.
Once your racks are packed full of equipment, cables will become an essential necessity. Snake cables make your workspace look tidy while saving time by eliminating tangled mess for good!
Audio Interfaces
Audio interfaces are essential studio equipment that convert analog input from microphones or instruments into digital information that your computer and software can read. Many models also include preamps to increase low-impedance mics to line or mic-level, and stereo outputs for monitoring your work on monitor speakers and headphones.
Audio interfaces may seem intimidating or complicated for new producers, but investing in one should be your top priority if you want to produce professional music. Without such devices you cannot make high-quality recordings and produce professional songs.
Beginner producers typically require an audio interface that is straightforward to setup and use; such devices typically feature various inputs and outputs and can easily expand as their production needs expand. Some units feature built-in effects processing; others can connect via MIDI connections with external processors; entry level units typically come equipped with their own built-in mixer software to help control levels and routing; more advanced options like the Native Instruments KOMPLETE AUDIO provide dedicated apps specifically for these purposes.
Most audio interfaces connect to your computer through either USB, Thunderbolt, or FireWire connections. Each type offers differing levels of data transfer speed. Although you could get away with most connections for home studio use, it’s generally best to opt for those of the latest generation as this will enable you to take full advantage of any future technology releases.
Many audio interfaces feature balanced inputs and outputs compatible with higher-grade cables such as XLR or TRS to ensure more stable signal path with reduced interference potential. Some will even come equipped with DB-25 input ports capable of routing patch bays with either XLR or TRS cables to accommodate up to eight channels simultaneously.
More sophisticated audio interfaces often include onboard DSP and come bundled with effects plug-ins and guitar amp simulators, like the Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 which features 2 mic and 4 additional inputs to connect microphones as well as an onboard mixer with cue mix, talkback, headphone outputs, speaker outputs and also supports MIDI connections.
Mics
Recording vocals and other instruments requires several high-quality microphones. A high-quality dynamic mic should cost around $70 in your home studio; one popular choice is the Shure SM57 which is both inexpensive and durable – ideal for close miking drum kits as well as guitar or bass cabs.
Condenser microphones represent the next step up in cost and quality, typically starting around $1500. You will most often find these large, stylish and serious-looking mics used by professionals recording environments. Their operation relies on capacitors which convert acoustic vibrations into electrical signals for recording onto computers – they also need 48V phantom power in order to operate effectively.
One type of microphone to consider is a ribbon microphone, although these delicate devices may be fragile, sensitive and expensive – yet many people appreciate their sound. Ribbon mics tend to work best when placed in an acoustically-treated environment for optimal results.
At a minimum, essential studio equipment includes a mixing board, digital audio workstation and monitors. Professional-grade mixers cost $500 while DAW (digital audio workstation) will run into several hundred dollars. MIDI keyboards may also prove helpful for producing beats and melodies but aren’t essential in all home studios.
Acoustics of your recording space will also play a factor in costs. While a bedroom studio might cost as little as $2 per square foot to set up for professional-level recordings, upgrading it could run up to $40 a square foot!
An expense associated with running your studio should include the costs for purchasing and installing a rack system to house all your gear, as well as power conditioning devices to unify all the power coming into the rack and conditioner it. Instead of having several cables protrude out the back, these devices will consolidate all the power into one source, prolonging equipment lifespan while improving performance. Finally, an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is an invaluable addition that provides several minutes of backup power during power outages to safely shut down computers safely.
Monitors
Since recording is increasingly digital, one of the first pieces of equipment every studio needs is a computer monitor or LCD display. These consists of a flat screen with associated circuitry housed within its casing; older computers used cathode ray tubes which made them large and heavy; modern flat-screen monitors are typically smaller, lighter, and consume less energy than CRT models.
Computer manufacturers haven’t just focused on improving graphics capabilities when designing displays; many also aim to enhance audio quality as well. Many monitors feature built-in speakers for listening to music or watching videos or having Skype calls with friends; for those seeking something with serious audio credentials, look for monitors that feature separate rear passive radiators which deliver deep bass kick.
Professional studios that use multiple monitors for mixing often employ several monitors at various positions around the room to listen to a mix from all possible perspectives, helping ensure it will sound great when played back on consumer speakers as well. This saves both time and money by eliminating trips to mastering houses or friends’ houses for final mixing sessions.
If you plan on using multiple monitors, consider investing in monitor stands. These will act as an acoustic buffer between your monitors and desk surfaces, helping reduce vibrations that might interfere with speaker accuracy. They can also give you greater options for positioning monitors as the stands allow you to raise and lower them and set them at various angles.
Most modern monitors feature HDMI ports, making it possible to connect them directly to your computer using just a single cable. HDMI carries audio and video data simultaneously and has become the industry standard. If you’re uncertain which type of connections your new monitor offers, don’t worry as adapters for most common types are usually readily available for purchase.
VESA mounts provide an economical solution for fitting multiple monitors on your desk by attaching to their back with four screws in an industry standard configuration. Wall or desk-mounted, these versatile mounts range from simple desk clamps to freestanding units secured on bases.