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NAI G2 Commercial Real Estate
Evelyn Forston, NAI G2 Commercial Real EstatePhone: (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, I'm Evelyn Forston and I'd love to assist you! Life is full of transitions… it changes, and we change with it. Whether it’s coming together with another person to spend your life together, loved ones moving on or moving in, I’m here to help you! I understand it. From picking out my favorite items to keep, to filling a home with furniture, I know what it’s like. I’ve done it and I understand it. I know what it’s like to buy your first home by yourself, to sell your home, to move to a bigger home and build a life with someone. If you’re ready to downsize and move to an apartment or smaller home, I’m here to help! I've done that as well! If you want a home that is your sanctuary or a lively home teaming with activity, my goal is to help you satisfy your functional, financial and aesthetic needs in a home. I’m here for you, from your first home to forever home!

Additionally, I love aiding my clients in buying/selling/leasing commercial property. Reach out to me if you need a professional to assist you!

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!