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Keller Williams Realty River Cities
Evelyn Forston, Keller Williams Realty River CitiesPhone: (205) 901-6756
Email: [email protected]

Recording for beginners: How to get started

by Evelyn Forston 07/08/2024

person sitting at laptop with headphones picture in picture black background featured image text recording at home a beginner's guide

Are you interested in learning the ins and outs of sound recording? For beginners, the concept might seem intimidating - after all, there is quite a bit of equipment and cost to consider. 

However, by following some basic guidelines, you can get started creating your own home recording studio for your music recording and digital audio needs.

Here is a quick guide to help you get started:

Create a budget & stick to it

As with all major household projects, creating a budget is a smart first step. For music production, it's especially important to plan financially for your equipment choices, so you don't accidentally break the bank.

Depending on the type and amount of equipment you use, a home studio can cost $300 to more than $10,000. However, when comparing the cost to using professional recording studios, many experts argue that home studio recording is a sound investment - pun intended!

Cables & stands

You will need two audio cable types: a mic cable to hook your microphone into your audio interface (unless you have chosen to use a USB microphone) and cables to connect to your audio interface with your monitor.

A microphone stand can also be absolutely crucial, especially if you don't have a handheld mic or a mic built into your computer. It's easiest to have a sturdy desktop stand, but you can go with floor stands or even ceiling-mounted stands.

A music production computer (laptop or desktop)

From composing to arranging to recording – you'll be doing most of your music production and recording work on a computer. A desktop computer with at least 16 GB RAM is usually a suitable starting point. Laptops are also a great option as long as they have a powerful processor for running your digital audio workstation.

External hard drives & mics

As you begin to work with audio recording, you will need to handle a large amount of data. Your computer storage capacity is important, but audio files are huge - you'll find yourself running out of space quickly.

Luckily, external storage is a beloved friend for music production. Solid-state drives are recommended for speed and safety, and are becoming more affordable every day. Have one or more available for creating backups or transporting files between computers.

recording at home article summary infographic

While these are only some basics of a home recording studio setup, keep these tips in mind, and you'll be heading in the right direction. 

About the Author
Author

Evelyn Forston

Hi! We are David and Evelyn - The Hickox Team!

With a shared passion for helping people find where you truly belong—whether it’s a dream home or a strategic commercial space—we’ve combined our experience, heart, and hustle to better serve you, as our client across the Chattahoochee Valley. 

David brings sharp negotiation skills and market insight, and I bring creative strategy, relationship-driven service, and a love for both Residential and Commercial real estate. Together, we bring a perfect blend of strategy, service, and savvy, to elevate every step of your Real Estate journey.

We believe that real estate is not just about property—it’s about people, purpose, and possibility.

 If you’re buying, selling, investing, or just want advice—we’re here for you.

-TheHickoxTeam 

Every Home Begins with 'H"

Keller Williams Realty River Cities

Meet David

"When I think of dedication and drive in Real Estate, I think of David Hickox. Not only is David my professional partner, he’s also my fiancé — which means I get a front-row seat to the determination and care he puts into every property detail and client interaction."

-Evelyn Forston

I’m David Hickox—a dedicated real estate advisor serving the Chattahoochee Valley with a focus on results, relationships, and real value. My approach is grounded in strategy, honesty, and a deep respect for the goals and dreams of every client I work with.

With experience in both residential and commercial real estate, I bring sharp market insight, strong negotiation skills, and a calm, solutions-focused mindset to every transaction. Whether you’re buying your first home, selling an investment property, or expanding your commercial portfolio, I’m here to make the process smooth, strategic, and successful.

As co-lead of The Hickox Team with my fiancé Evelyn—an incredible Realtor and partner in every sense—we combine our strengths to deliver a real estate experience that’s both heart-led and results-driven. Together, we bring creativity, clarity, and commitment to the table every step of the way.

Outside of real estate, I enjoy staying active, volunteering, spending time with family, and being part of a community I truly care about.

Let’s connect—I’d be honored to help you take the next step with confidence.

Call me at 912-596-4261

Meet Evelyn

Hi, I’m Evelyn Forston —a people-oriented, house-obsessed, dog-loving soul!💛🏡🐾

I'm a Realtor, Advisor and Associate Broker serving both Residential and Commercial Real Estate clients across Georgia and Alabama. I believe Real Estate is more than closings and contracts—it’s about connection, service, and walking with people through some of life’s biggest milestones.

I don't just sell properties—I shepherd people through meaningful life transitions with my professional partner, who is also my fiancé- David Hickox.

Whether I’m helping a family buy their first home, assisting an investor with a new commercial venture, or supporting someone in a major life transition, I treat every client with care, strategy, and heart. My experience spans residential and commercial sales, multi-family, single-family, and property management—which means I can offer smart advice, creative solutions, and real results.

I grew up in the Chattahoochee Valley and proudly graduated from both Brookstone School and Columbus State University. I love this community deeply and it shows in how I live and serve. I’m a 2022 East Alabama Leadership graduate, a member of the East Alabama Board of Realtors, a 2025 “star” for the Alzheimer’s Association Dancing Stars of Columbus, and I serve as the 2025 Entertainment Committee Chair for the Columbus Board of Realtors.

I live, work, and thrive in the Columbus, GA / Phenix City, AL area with my fiancé and real estate partner, David Hickox. We love helping people turn dreams into keys and investments into income.

My Mission

To create a Real Estate experience that’s not just successful—but supportive, empowering, and even a little bit fun. I want every client to feel heard, cared for, and confident from day one to closing day (and beyond!). I'll be your advisor and friend!

How I Can Help

Buying or selling Residential or Commercial Real Estate. Relocating with ease. Downsizing or upsizing strategically. Leasing or listing commercial properties. Supporting first-time buyers and seasoned investors alike. Navigating transitions with compassion and clarity.

I find deep joy in helping others. Whether I’m matching clients with their dream space or sneaking a treat to a four-legged friend, I lead with heart, faith, and a whole lot of enthusiasm.

If you’re looking for a Realtor who is experienced, loves people, and leads with heart—I’m your girl. Let’s make your next move your best one yet.

Call me at 205-901-6756

I'd be honored to put my over 15 years of multiple aspects of Real Estate experience to work for you!

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