But at the very least you’ll need a single input to record a microphone or external instrument, and a pair of stereo outputs for speakers, as well as a headphone output. For a complete guide to audio interfaces, check here.Īudio interfaces come in a variety of input and output configurations. Audio interfaces can connect to your computer or smartphone in a number of ways, the most common being via USB. This device converts analogue audio signals from a microphone or musical instrument into digital for use inside the computer and then back into an audible analogue stream for playback via monitors or headphones. The most important thing is to get started any way you can then upgrade in the future, if you need to.Īside from your computer or smartphone, the first thing you’ll need is an audio interface. Many hit songs were even recorded using the built-in microphone on a laptop, such as Clairo’s Pretty Girl, currently sat at 80 million streams on YouTube. French electronic duo Justice made their first album, 2007’s Cross, using GarageBand, a free DAW, while The Internet guitarist Steve Lacy recorded his 2017 self-titled mixtape onto his iPhone. Higher prices don’t necessarily mean better music. If not, there are a number of affordable options available – just be sure to check the technical requirements of the DAW (digital audio workstation) you plan to use.

We’re setting our cap at $500, and assuming you already have a computer or smartphone. It’s helpful to set a budget when putting together a studio. READ MORE: Rupert Neve Designs 5254 Diode Bridge compressor review: VCAs and opto cells sit down, the diode bridge is back in town.Thankfully, the gear has never been more affordable, with plenty of low-cost high-quality products now on the market. There can be a lot to buy when setting up a home studio, from speakers and MIDI controllers to software and synthesizers.

But it can also be prohibitively expensive, especially for those just getting started. Music production is a fun and creatively rewarding endeavour.

Do it at home studio computer