Recommended Gear for Home Recording For Beginners

Now let’s start with Audio Interfaces

1.Interfaces

Recommended Audio Interfaces Around $100 Info/Price
1. PreSonus AudioBox USB 96 Opens in a new tab.This little box has two microphone inputs
connects via USB to your Mac or PC
and is built like a tank. Great for beginners.
2. Focusrite Scarlett Solo Opens in a new tab. If you only need one microphone input,
this box is a great option as it allows you
to record at even higher sample rates
than most budget interfaces.
3. Moukey  MSc1 USB 3.0Opens in a new tab.MSc1 is an entry-level audio processing interface launched by Moukey. Although small in size, it has all the basic functions required.
PreSonus AudioBox 96 25th Anniversary USB Audio Interface with Studio One Artist DAW Recording Software Opens in a new tab.
  • Value-packed 2-channel USB 2.0 interface for personal and portable recording.
  • 2 high-quality Class-A mic preamps make it easy to get a great sound.
  • 2 high-headroom instrument inputs to record guitar, bass, and your favorite line-level devices, plus...

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Moukey USB 3.0 Audio Interface, Microphone Preamps with 48V Phantom Power, 24 Bit, Support Smartphone, Tablet, Computer and Other Equipment Recording - MSc1 Opens in a new tab.
  • 48kHz/24-bit: As an entry-level audio processor, the 48kHz/24-bit recording format ensures lower...
  • Smart phone/tablet computer live broadcast: Equipped 3.5mm audio output interface (please bring your...
  • USB3.0: The USB3.0 interface is new and adopted, which greatly improves the transmission speed with...

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


Recommended Audio Interfaces Around $250 Info/Price
1. Apogee OneOpens in a new tab.Probably the smallest interface I’ve
ever used, this little 2-channel USB box
gives you great sound, portability, as well
as a built in microphone!
2. Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 Opens in a new tab.While only having two built-in mic pres,
at this price point, you have a total
of 8 available inputs so you can hook up additional preamps to it and record
up to six tracks at once.

Check out how this Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 compares with Komplete Audio 6 MK2 here!Opens in a new tab.
Apogee One - Audio Interface for Vocals and Instruments with Built In Studio Quality Condenser Microphone for iOS, Mac & Windows PC, Headphone DAC for audiophiles, Made in USA (Silver)
  • 2 in x 2 Out audio interface with built-in microphone
  • Usb 2.0 connection for Mac or PC with 24-bit/96kHz AD/DA conversion
  • Direct monitoring, complete input/output control with apogee’s Maestro software

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Sale
Focusrite Scarlett 8i6 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface Opens in a new tab.
  • with 2 Mic/Instrument Inputs
  • Bundled Software - Mac/Win
  • USB 2.0 Audio Interface

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


Recommended Audio Interfaces Under $500 Info/Price
1. PreSonus Studio 68cOpens in a new tab. Perfect for being able to track a full
drum kit with four mics, this box gives you lots of inputs for the space.
2. Focusrite Clarett 2Pre Opens in a new tab.This little USB interface comes with
amazing sounding pres that even
have a second circuit built in so
you get two pre sounds in one.
Plus it has near top of the line
converter specs and super low
latency recording so you can
track through plugins.
3. Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820 Opens in a new tab.If you can get over the brand snobbery
that comes with mentioning the word
Behringer in audio circles, this is the
best deal on the planet right now.
You get 8 mic pres built in + ADAT
expansion for up to another 8
pres all for less than $300.
And it records up to 96k. And in
case you’re wondering, yes
I’ve recorded with Behringer gear

Check out to see how the Behringer 1820 compares with the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 here!Opens in a new tab.

PreSonus Studio 68c 6x6, 192 kHz, USB Audio Interface with Studio One Artist and Ableton Live Lite DAW Recording Software Opens in a new tab.
  • Compact and feature-rich 6-in/6-out USB-C audio interface (USB-C to USB-C and USB-C to USB-A cables...
  • Loaded with 4 pristine XMAX Class A mic preamps to capture every detail.
  • Studio-grade converters allow for up to 24-bit/192 kHz recording and playback (limited to 4 tracks...

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Focusrite Clarett 2Pre USB 10x4 Audio Interface Opens in a new tab.
  • 10-in/4-out USB 2.0 Audio Interface with 2 Mic Preamps
  • Included Software Bundle - Mac/PC
  • 24-bit/192kHz Conversion

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820 Opens in a new tab.
Opens in a new tab.
21,306 Reviews
Behringer U-PHORIA UMC1820 Opens in a new tab.
  • Dual Headphone Outputs - 24-bit/96kHz Resolution - Mac/PC
  • with 8 Microphone Preamps
  • USB 2.0 Audio Interface

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


2.Microphones

All the microphones I’ve listed below are great all around mics that can take you far, whether you use them for vocals, drums, or acoustic guitars. In an ideal situation, you will one day have lots of microphones to choose from so you can match the perfect microphone to the voice/instrument in that situation. But in the typical home studio, most of us start out with one mic and use it for everything.

I’ve built this list of mics to accommodate the one all-around microphone choice. That being said, here are my top picks for your “go-to” mic if you can have only one.

Recommended Microphones Under $100 Info/Price
1. Samson C01 Opens in a new tab. This little guy sounds amazing on drum overheads
and vocals. I know because I’ve used it on
both with great success. One of the
best buys out there, in my opinion.
2. Behringer B1 The first condenser microphone I ever
bought! I still own it and use it today.
It’s bright, clear, and up front – perfect
for vocals. It even has a high pass filter and 10db pad.
3. Audio-Technica AT2020 Opens in a new tab. A classic in the home studio world.
Countless students of mine use this mic day in and day out with great success.
4. Shure SM57 Opens in a new tab. This little dynamic microphone is a beast.
Great for loud or aggressive vocals,
drums, guitar amps, or even the occasional
acoustic guitar (I’ve done it) – it is a staple in home and pro studios alike
Samson C01 Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Condenser Microphone Opens in a new tab.
  • VERSATILE: Samson's C01 has all the performance features that you demand from a large-diaphragm...
  • FEATURES: Featuring a large, dual-layer 19mm diaphragm with a cardioid pickup pattern, the C01...
  • HIGH-QUALITY: Its two ultra-thin sensor membranes pick up far more detailed sound. The result is a...

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Sale
Audio Technica AT2020 Condenser Studio Microphone Bundle with Pop Filter and XLR Cable Opens in a new tab.
Opens in a new tab.
427 Reviews
Audio Technica AT2020 Condenser Studio Microphone Bundle with Pop Filter and XLR Cable Opens in a new tab.
  • Audio-Technica AT2020 Side-Address Cardioid Condenser Microphone - Stand Mount for 5/8 "-27 Threaded...
  • Comprehensive studio recording bundle: Includes Audio-Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone,...
  • Professional-grade microphone: AT2020 features a 16mm low-mass, side-address diaphragm with a...

Last update on 2024-03-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Instrument Dynamic Mircophone, SM57-LC (SM57-LCE) Opens in a new tab.
  • Contoured frequency response for clean, instrumental reproduction and rich vocal pickup
  • Professional-quality reproduction for drum, percussion, and instrument amplifier miking
  • Uniform cardioid pickup pattern isolates the main sound source while reducing background noise

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


Recommended Microphones Under $250Info/Price
1. Blue Microphones Spark Opens in a new tab. One of the coolest looking mics I own, it
sounds as good as it looks. Vocals sound
focused, up front, and amazing. It has an
interesting “Focus” button on it that changes
the EQ curve of the mic for a different sound.
2. Rode NT1-A (or NT1) Opens in a new tab. I own three of these mics. They are one
of my all time favorite mics for quality,
dependability, and low noise. Nothing fancy – just great sound from a great company.
Sale
Blue Microphone Blackout Spark SL XLR Condenser Microphone Recording, Streaming, Podcasting, Gaming, Large-Diaphragm Cardioid Capsule, Shockmount and Protective Case Opens in a new tab.
  • Custom Blue condenser capsule: The Blackout Spark SL professional condenser microphone delivers...
  • Detailed, transparent sound: This broadcast microphone excels in focused, transparent sound with...
  • XLR connection: Easy integration with computer USB audio interfaces and mixers

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Rode NT1-A Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone Opens in a new tab.
  • Large diaphragm 1” gold-sputtered capsule
  • Cardioid polar pattern
  • Ultra-low noise, self-noise of only 5dB (A)

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


Recommended Microphones Under $500Info/Price
1. AKG C214 Using the same capsule as its bigger brother
the classic 414, this is a great all around
microphone. I’ve used 414s for vocals and
drum overheads with great success so the 214
would work just as well.
2. Rode NT2-A Opens in a new tab. With that same amazing Rode sound and
build quality as the NT1-A, the NT2-A adds
multiple polar patterns, a high pass filter,
and a pad. This gives you a lot of flexibility
in the studio.
3. Shure SM7B Opens in a new tab. So many rock singers have used this dynamic
mic in both stage and studio applications.
It has a way of focusing the sound of aggressive vocals while also sounding amazing
on melodic singing.
Rode NT2-A Studio Solution Microphone, Silver, Wired, Singing Opens in a new tab.
  • Large 1 inch HF1 gold sputtered capsule
  • Three position variable polar pattern: Omni, Cardioid & Figure 8; all controlled on the mic
  • Three position variable high-pass filter: Flat, 40 Hz or 80 Hz

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Shure SM7B Dynamic Vocal Microphone Opens in a new tab.
  • ONE MICROPHONE FOR EVERYTHING - Studio Recording, Home Recording, Podcasting & Streaming. The SM7B...
  • STUDIO VOCAL RECORDING - The SM7B’s Dynamic Cartridge With Smooth, Flat, Wide-range Frequency...
  • PODCAST & BROADCAST - Found In The Top Podcasting Studios Around The World, The SM7B Air Suspension...

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3.Monitors

Recommended Monitors Under $300 (pair) Info/Price
1. KRK Rokit 5 Opens in a new tab. One of my favorite pairs of monitors, the
Rokit 5s are a great home studio choice.
While no 5-inch speaker will give you a ton
of low end, you can get a great mix with
these bad boys.
2. PreSonus Eris E5Opens in a new tab. I’ve mixed quit a few projects on PreSonus Eris speakers and they sound great. Silky smooth
and clear. Exactly what you need a studio
monitor to be.
3. Behringer Truth B1030A Another pair of great speakers that I’ve
mixed some projects on – these versions
of the Behringer Truth line of speakers
are FAR better than their older stuff.
Very easy to mix on.
KRK 5" Classic Studio Monitor
  • High/Low-frequency controls contour your sound for environment, preference, and music style, and the...
  • Soft-dome tweeter with optimized waveguide provides smooth, pristine and articulate highs up to...
  • The low-resonance enclosure minimizes distortion and color, and the lightweight, glass-aramid...

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Sale
PreSonus Eris E5 XT 5.25" Near Field Studio Monitor with EBM Waveguide (Single)
  • 5-inch woven composite low-frequency transducer offers deep lows.
  • 1-inch ultra-low-mass, silk-dome, high-frequency transducer boasts smooth highs.
  • Now comes included with Studio One Prime and Studio Magic plug-in suite, over $1000 USD worth of...

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Recommended Monitors Under $600 (pair) Info/Price
1. Yamaha HS8 If you have a bigger room (like a basement
studio, or larger garage space) and want
to step up to an 8 inch speaker then
I’d recommend the Yamaha HS8s.  When
I think of studio monitors, Yamaha
always comes to mind. Mostly because
every studio I’ve ever been in has a pair
of NS-10s. These HS8s are a home studio
version and are quite popular.  I own
and mix on these guys as my main monitors.
2. Focal Alpha 50 Opens in a new tab. Focal makes amazing speakers, and to get
a pair at this price is stunning. Many mixers I know swear by Focal, and that’s for a reason.
3. KRK Rokit 8s.Opens in a new tab. Lots of speaker for the price and you’ll get
more accuracy in the low end than a 5 or
6 inch monitor.
FOCAL Alpha 50 Studio Monitor (Single) Opens in a new tab.
  • General Size: Near-field System type: Active Configuration: 2-way Drivers Low-frequency driver: 5"...
  • The Focal Alpha 50 is a versatile studio monitor with quality components and design
  • It serves beautifully in a variety of capacities, performing just as well with instrumental music as...

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

KRK 8S2 V2 8" 100 Watt Powered Studio Subwoofer
  • 8" glass aramid composite woofer
  • Bass extension to 30Hz with a max SPL of 112 dB
  • Footswitch control enables/disables sub and crossover filter (footswitch not included)

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API


4. Recommended Headphones

I personally don’t recommend investing in any headphones under $100 if you will be doing the majority of your mixing work on them. That being said, you don’t need to spend much to get quality. Here is my top choice:

KRK KNS8400Opens in a new tab. – My absolute favorite headphones, I use these for tracking and mixing day in and day out. They are clear, powerful, and balanced – and under $150.

KRK KNS 8400 On-Ear Closed Back Circumaural Studio Monitor Headphones with Volume Control Opens in a new tab.
  • Detachable in-line volume control
  • Voiced to remain true to the character of KRK’s class leading studio monitors, developed with 25...
  • The latest reference quality frequency response for closed-back, circum-aural dynamic headphones.

Last update on 2024-03-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Turn-Key Startup Studios

Now if you don’t like to pick and choose what you need for your studio, allow me to recommend some complete home studio setups that would pair nicely in different budgets. These setups will get you up and running right away and still leave room for some expansion (via more mics, upgraded software, etc) in the future.

Basically if I were to start over today owning nothing, here is what I would buy depending on my budget.

Complete Home Studio For Under $350 Setup
This home studio setupOpens in a new tab. would be
perfect for the singer/songwriter
who can play everything him/herself.
For the mic cable, stand, and pop
filter feel free to go with any brand
you like.
Focusrite Scarlett Solo  – Comes with
Pro Tools First and Ableton
Live Lite software. So no
need to buy an additional
DAW to get started.
● Samson C01 
● KRK KNS 6400 
● Pro Co XLR Cable 
● On-Stage Mic Stand 
● Gator Pop Filter 

Complete Home Studio For Under $750 Setup
This home studio setup would be
perfect for the band or artist that
wants to record more than two
inputs at a time and still have
some room for expansion up to
4 inputs. You also get two very
different sounding and versatile
microphones. For the mic cable,
stand, and pop filter feel free to
go with any brand you like.
PreSonus Studio 6|8  – Comes
with Studio One Artist software,
so no need to buy an additional
DAW to get started.
Blue Spark 
● Shure SM57
● KRK KNS 8400 
● Pro Co XLR Cable 
● On-Stage Mic Stand 
● Gator Pop Filter

Complete Home Studio For Under $1500 Setup
This home studio setup would be
perfect for the band or studio
wanting the flexibility to record 8
channels of drum mics or a full
band live. You also get three very
different sounding and versatile
microphones plus we’re adding
a pair of monitor speakers. For
the mic cable, stand, and pop filter
feel free to go with any brand you like.
Focusrite Scarlett 18i20  – Comes with
Pro Tools First and Ableton Live Lite
software, so no need to buy an
additional DAW to get started.
Rode NT1-A 
Blue Spark 
Shure SM57 
KRK KNS 6400
KRK Rokit 5
Pro Co XLR Cable
On-Stage Mic Stand 
Gator Pop Filter 

And there you have it!

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Vinnie

I'm Vinnie, and I'm here to support you to create your own studio at home, whether it’s for photography, recording audio, podcasts, or videos!

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