How to Build a Cheap Home Recording Studio

I'm reading more and more about people trying to setup a simple home studio in a budget around $300-$400.

Before starting to buy home studio equipment, you need to know what is the minimum requirement for a home recording studio:

* PC/Laptop
* Condenser Microphone
* Audio Interface / Preamp and Soundcard
* Monitors
* Headphones
* Mic stand, pop filter, acoustic foam
* Recording Software

One of the best condenser microphones out there is Rode NT1A Anniversary Vocal Condenser Microphone ($229). This 5/5 stars microphone comes with cables and a popfilter. The NT1A Anniversary Model is a fresh redesign of the legendary NT1 classic studio microphone.

This mic requires some sort of phantom power. I really recommend a good audio interface. M-Audio MobilePre USB Mobile Preamp and Audio Interface is pretty good, bears phantom power and it can be used with any laptop. That means more mobility for you. But if you want more, be sure to read The Best Audio Interface under $200.

Monitors are pretty important when mixing your songs. M-Audio Studiophile AV30 Professional Reference Speakers is a pretty good choice. The price is around $100. Headphones are not that important, so buy something that fits your budget. Don't forget to buy mic stand and some sort of acoustic foam. You can use a home made acoustic foam created from egg crates.

The cheapest recording software is Audacity. Check their website for more info.

The simplest and maybe the cheapest alternative to build a recording studio is to buy a good USB mic, and skip the audio interface/preamp equipment. If you want to go that road, I recommend AT2020 USB Version. AT2020 is a versatile mic and with the USB version you just need to plug it in your usb and start recording.





Learn how to mix your songs on Home Recording Studio Blog