22 December 2023

As an artist, when it comes to choosing which license to purchase for a beat, there are three main things to consider together when making your decision…

1. A Computer/Laptop

This is an obvious one. If you aren’t looking to do all your production yourself and just want to record, the technical requirements will not be too much. If you don’t have one already, grab yourself a laptop/computer with 4 or 8GB of RAM and 2/2.4 Ghz processing power (but of course feel free to go higher). As you will not be using many, if any, VSTs/plugins, you will not require a whole lot when it comes to processing power and memory. The type of operating system you opt for is entirely down to personal preference as well as which DAW you will be using.

2. A Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)

You have no doubt heard the names “Logic’, “FL Studio”, “Pro Tools” etc. These are all examples of DAWs, which is what you’ll be using to record and export your audio. Choosing which one is, again, down to personal preference, but make sure to bear in mind what operating system your laptop/computer uses, as some DAWS will be available on one but not the other.

You can also make use of free DAWS such as Garage band (Mac only), but do make sure that these support audio recording.

4. A Microphone

Another obvious one. There are plenty of great options for budget-friendly vocal mics out there (around $100). One favourite of mine is the Audio Technica AT2020 which comes in at around $85. Be sure to read reviews for any mics that you might buy, but also bear in mind that this is a budget-friendly option, so don’t expect a perfect 10/10 (most mics around this price range will do just fine for what you need them for).

Also, don’t forget to grab yourself a mic stand as well as at least 1 XLR cable which will be used to connect your microphone to your audio interface.

5. An Audio Interface

A slightly less obvious one for some. In order for you to send audio from your microphone into your DAW, you will need an audio interface. The price ranges for these are CRAZY, but the expensive stuff is for large recording studios, so you don’t need to worry. You can find small and compact interfaces that are perfect for home/bedroom recording setups, ranging from around $100 - $300. A beloved favourite among most bedroom producers is the Focusrite Scarlett. You can get their newest and cheapest option, the Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen, for around $145. 

Again, do your research for yourself, but a reliable and affordable option would definitely be the Focusrite.

P.S. Ensure that your interface can be connected to your computer/laptop. Some use standard USB cables while some use the newer USB-C.

6. Headphones

While monitors/speakers are optional, you will need to have a pair of headphones. If you’re not doing any post-production or mixing, the quality of these headphones is not really that important; you’ll just need to be able to hear the backing music while you record. This would be problematic without headphones, as if you have the music playing out of speakers, your microphone will undoubtedly capture it and ruin your recording.

In Conclusion

Whether you plan to record music as a hobby or pursue it as a career, investing in a home recording set up is definitely worth doing. Not only will it save you money in the long-run; you’ll be able to work on your own schedule. All, if not most, of these pieces of equipment can be bought in home recording bundles if you’d prefer not to shop for them individually. But as always, be sure to do your research to confirm that they meet your own needs.

If you want tips on how to get a good recording from home, be sure to read this post here.