Today, recording one's voice or music is no longer relegated to the professional studio. Whether a podcast or an independent music project, individuals and groups are creating recordings in their home studios. How professional these recordings sound depends on the equipment they use.
The Equipment Matters
Whether it’s purchased on an online outlet like UndergroundAudio.com.au or from a local dealer, it must fit the type of recording they do. For instance, if recording acoustic music, then a condenser microphone works better to handle high-frequency instruments like the acoustic guitar. If recording voices only for something like a podcast, then items like a bass amplifier won't be needed.
The Most Important Pieces
In the end, there are ten important pieces of audio equipment needed to establish a quality recording. Leave these items out and the resulting mix may possibly sound off in some way.
These items do not have to be top of the line or highly priced. In fact, many of the items on this list can be found at online sights for a percentage of what they cost directly from the dealer. What's needed to find the right equipment is research and a bit of patience.
With that said, here are ten important pieces of audio equipment needed for recording.
1. Microphones
There are two main ones to consider -- dynamic and condenser. As mentioned above, condenser microphones are used to record non-electric instruments. Plugged-in guitars and drums are best recorded with a dynamic mic.
When recording spoken-word or musical vocals, use a large-diaphragm condenser mic. This type grabs the entire spectrum of sound waves so the voice doesn't sound too tinny or soft.
2. Pop Filters
These important pieces of material come in two forms. One is in a large circle comprised of mesh. The other is a soft cover that goes over the microphone itself.
In either case, the goal of the filter is to minimize the "popping" sound of hard letters like 'b' and 'p'. In turn, it makes for a smoother recording.
3. Mic Stands
Hand-held mics don't cut in when recording. Those unsure of this should look at photos of The Beatles or another famous band. Not one hand-held microphone among them.
Mic stands are used to stabilize vocals and ensure the maximum range of sound is captured. The type of stand used depends on what's being recorded and how it’s being done. Smaller desktop stands are used in podcasts where everyone sits around a table. Stand-up versions are used for musical performances.
4. Headphones
Let's get this out of the way ... earbuds are not considered headphones. To properly hear music, listen to other voices, or properly edit raw recordings, a high-quality pair of headphones are a necessity. They should be properly vetted to determine the level of sound that can be heard.
5. Monitors
Monitors look like speakers, but they're not. Stereo speakers accentuate certain frequency bands to improve the overall listening experience. Studio monitors provide a flat frequency response to hear a recording as it truly is. In turn, it allows for proper editing during the mixing process.
6. Computer
Most recordings in today's world are digital, so a computer is a critical piece of equipment. However, a basic laptop or tower won't cut it. Due to the processing power of audio recording/editing programs, a higher-end model is required.
This has the advantage of providing enough memory (RAM) and CPU (processor) time to perform a number of tasks. For example, the process-eating task of mixing and rendering several different audio tracks into one.
7. Digital Audio Workstation
The Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) is the virtual version of the pre-digital mixing boards. Thus, it gives the user the ability to record, edit, and mix soundtracks on their computer without splicing tape together. This results in cleaner and more precise recordings.
There are two types of DAWs -- free and paid. Open source software like Audacity does a fairly good job recording and mixing podcasts and other voice-only productions. However, if recording music, then consider going with a paid DAW to get the full spectrum of tools.
8. Audio Interface
In professional studios, audio interfaces can be stand-alone units organized on a rack. In home studios, all those components are merged into an all-in-one audio interface.
The main purpose is to provide input and output connections for recording and playback. As these interfaces have evolved, some also contain items like mic preamps and digital conversion. Again, what's needed depends on the type of recording being done.
9. Cables
The mics are on their stands, the playback monitors are hooked up, and the DAW is ready to record. However, nothing will work because one thing is missing -- cables. In a basic or home studio there are a few cables needed.
XLR cables are required to hook the microphones to the audio interface. You also need cables to connect the interface to the monitors. Cables are also required to hook electric instruments to their amps. If it starts to get messy, then snake cables can be used to hook up many items to the audio interface.
10. Acoustic Panels
Whether the studio is in a bedroom or a dedicated space, acoustic panels are a must. These soft pads go on the walls to do two things. One, minimize the bounce of standing sound waves across the room. Two, block outside sounds from coming in.
It may sound complicated and expensive, but these 10 important pieces of audio equipment don't need to be purchased all at once. A one-person music performance or podcast requires the computer, DAW, microphone, stand, and headphones. As income increases the other pieces can be added.
Overall, start slow and practice. Soon enough, the one-person operation may turn into something greater. And that means your equipment will change as well. So, be ready for quite the audio adventure.
