How to Set Up a Music Recording Studio At Home Under Budget?

In the past, music recording was a costly affair. Artists had to rely on record companies for studio time, recording equipment, and audio engineers. However, with the advent of technology, the landscape has changed drastically. Now, you have the freedom to record anytime, anywhere, with a DIY music recording studio setup, unleashing your creativity.

Setting up a home music recording studio has become so simple than ever. If you are a newbie in the domain, you may feel exhausted by the task. Some may think that months of research, planning, and preparation go into it as it is a big and complex project. But things have changed a lot. You don’t have to buy loads of equipment; only about 8 to 9 would be enough to get started.

You can record anytime with a DIY recording studio and produce the best music. But how to get it started? What do you need? Here is a guide explaining how to build a professional recording studio at home. Keep reading to know more!

Home Recording Studio Equipment List

A typical music recording studio may have a vast range of equipment. For your DIY home recording studio, you may need the following:

A Desktop System

The most obvious necessity in a home recording studio is a desktop system or computer. Doing everything on a tablet or smartphone won't be possible. These devices cannot be your main interface for recording. So, you have to consider a functional desktop system.

Read More :- What Is An Interface In Music Recording? What Does It Do?

Microphones

Microphones are another vital piece of equipment you must invest in to set up your home recording studio. Consider three types of microphones: condenser, dynamic, and ribbon. A condenser microphone is designed with large and small diaphragms and can record almost any musical instrument. A dynamic microphone is often used for both vocals and mic-ing high-output instruments such as drums and guitar amps. A ribbon microphone gives details on acoustic guitars, vocals, brass instruments, electric guitar amps, etc.

Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)

A Digital Audio Workstation is the software that powers your computer-based recording. When searching for a DAW, you may come across various brands such as Pro Tools, Cubase, Reason, and Ableton Live. Most of them can work on Windows or Mac. For free versions, you can opt for Audacity, GarageBand, or Sonar Cakewalk.

Preamps

Preamps or preamplifiers are among the most important items on the list. They act as a bridge between your microphones and the audio interface. A preamp’s main function is to increase the low-level signals from mics or instruments to a usable line level. Although preamps are often underrated equipment, most studio engineers use them to record vocals and instruments. Certain mics may sound dull but come to life when plugged into a preamp. Getting a good-quality preamp impacts the overall sound of your recordings.

Distinct preamps are available, including solid-state, hybrid, and tube preamps. Each of them offers unique tonal qualities.

Microphone Accessories

Along with actual microphones, you would also need a microphone stand, pop filters, and balanced XLR cables. All these accessories can help lighten the burden of handling your microphones.

A mic stand provides steadiness and lets you operate the microphones more conveniently. A good stand will keep your mics at the perfect height and angle, helping you feel less fatigued during long recording sessions. Pop filters can enhance audio clarity by lessening plosive sounds, which may cause unwanted distortion.

Balanced XLR cables can connect your mics to mixers or interfaces. They help cut interference and ensure your audio signals are clear and noise-free.

Digital Audio Interface

The audio interface is your studio's next most essential item after your desktop system. A digital audio interface or converter is the main hub connecting your computers, microphones, and DI. This audio device turns analog signals into digital files that your desktop system can work with.

You will need an audio interface with many inputs if you want to record a live band. If you're going to record only vocals, you must consider an interface with many inputs and outputs.

Studio Headphones

You'll need to invest in quality headphones to monitor all your recording tasks effectively. When shopping for the right headphones for your recording studio, you can choose between closed-back and open-back headphones.

When using closed-back headphones, sound doesn’t escape like the open-back versions. Also, closed-back headphones lessen background noise, allowing for more sound isolation. With open-back headphones, you can hear more about what is happening around you when you are listening.

The Right Ways to Set Up Your Music Recording Studio

Beyond the essential equipment, you need many more things for your music recording studio. Follow the steps below to build your home recording studio setup:

Select The Perfect Room

Most homes do not have the high ceilings and various surfaces of a music recording studio design. Yet, some rooms are best suited for music recording. Choose a room with fewer windows, a solid wood door, and a carpeted floor. The aim is to have a space that does not give any unwanted echo.

Soundproof Your Room

Your prime aim is to give your space an acoustic treatment that deadens echoing sound. Buy some acoustic foam sound absorbers, which can be easily mounted on the walls. These can help catch unwanted echoes. You can even prefer buying special sound absorbers (bass traps) that can be used in the corners.

Chair and Desk

Investing in the best desk and chair is good since you will spend most of your time inside the studio. Opt for a desk and chair that are ergonomically suitable for extended hours of recording. Select a chair with adjustable features such as backrest angle and lumbar support. For more comfort, you can opt for a chair with a headrest. Consider a chair made with a breathable material such as mesh. Mesh can be a great choice for longer hours of recording as it can help prevent overheating.

When choosing a desk, consider the size of your room and the other equipment you want to place on it. Get a desk that provides ample surface area without feeling restricted. The desk should have a sturdy base to prevent wobbly monitors and equipment from tipping over. Ensure that it has features like a monitor stand, keyboard slide-out tray, integrated cable management system, and more. 

Use a Walk-In Closet

A walk-in closet may be an amazing choice for a professional recording booth. This allows you to keep the remaining space as a control room or editing space. The clothing hanging inside the closet absorbs the sound, and the closet door keeps outdoor noises from coming inside. You can achieve a clean, professional sound without disturbance from the outside.

Having a walk-in closet can also let you make the most of your space. Since it is more accessible than a building's dedicated audio space, it allows for quick setup and teardown. Thus, you can ensure great convenience for spontaneous recording sessions.

Get The Right Cables

You will need various cables for your monitors, microphones, and instruments. Make sure that you choose the right ones. Go for durable wires and check that they have the proper connectors for your equipment. The length also matters, so you must select the ones with enough length, letting you organize your space according to your needs. Also, you must buy cable organizers as they can keep your home studio safe and clutter-free.

Building a Home Studio Under Budget

Creating your own home recording studio is not a financial burden. By investing only in essential equipment and software and sourcing them from online websites, you can keep your expenses in check and build a studio that fits your budget. 

Keep in mind the following factors that may impact the cost of setting up a home recording studio:

Space

While a sizable amount of space may seem like a necessity for a recording studio, it's not always the case. With a well-organized dedicated room, you can create a professional music recording studio even in a small space. 

When it comes to furnishing your studio, consider multipurpose furniture. For example; buy a desk that doubles as a mixing station and storage solution, and even provides seating. This can prove to be a cost-effective way to maximize your space without compromising on functionality.

Soundproofing

Soundproofing is essential for professional recordings. Based on the size and structure of your space, it can be costly. Don’t go for high-end acoustic panels. Instead, create your own using foam or thick blankets. Place them strategically near your recording area to ensure improved sound quality.

Equipment

Equipment is your initial investment in your home recording studio. The cost of microphones, interfaces, mixing consoles, monitors, and instruments can add up quickly. More professional equipment typically has a higher price tag. You must keep a balance between budget and quality. 

Most professionals suggest starting with basic items and gradually upgrading as your skills improve and needs evolve. 

Look for second-hand or refurbished items to save more. Many musicians sell equipment and furniture in fine condition at a fraction of the actual price, allowing you to grab quality items under budget.

Expected Cost to Set Up a Music Recording Studio

A professional music recording studio setup, with top soundproofing and recording equipment, may cost up to $30,000. However, spending such a large amount may be beyond budget, especially for beginners.

A basic setup with an audio interface, a DAW, microphones, cables, and headphones cost between $500 and $1,500. For beginners, it is best to start the recording journey under budget with a basic studio setup. 

To Conclude

Setting up a music recording studio from scratch seems simple but is still a demanding task. You should know your recording goals and how to use the space beforehand. Determining your budget while planning a music studio is also important. Moreover, you should know what equipment you'll need for your music recording studio setup. Invest in quality equipment, from an audio interface to preamps and headphones.

By the end, you can secure a fantastic recording studio where you can make the most of your talent and have fun. 

If you need a professional recording space that is affordable, too, GXYZ Radio is here for you. We provide you with the best music recording studio setup that can fulfill all your recording needs. Hire us and save big on your recording projects. 

Our experts know the latest trends and offer the ideal platform for you to perform. So, no looking further. Connect with GXYZ Radio and receive unmatched support for a brighter future!