Recording studios are a great place to record music no matter what type you love. While you are getting your recording studio set up, you may think that you have thought of everything before you started, but did you really? Use our top 10 list to make sure that you have everything you need in your recording studio.
The Space
You will need to make sure that you have plenty of space to work in your recording studio. You need space in the actual booth, but you will need more space where the computer is for you to do the majority of the mixing for the music that you make. At the beginning, consider having space for only one or two people. As you get better, your studio can accommodate more people.
A Computer
If you plan on mixing your own music, a computer is a necessity. Make sure that the computer is in good working order and has enough space to store your files. You should consider a newer model computer to make sure that it will work with all of your software.
A Microphone Stand
No booth would be complete without a mic stand. You can’t be expected to hold the microphone and sing or play your instrument. These are one of the least expensive pieces of equipment for your studio, but they are a necessity. Without one, you will not be able to create the music that you are trying to record.
Something To Go In The Stand
While a stand is a necessity, an actual microphone for the stand is essential. You need to make sure that the microphone that you choose is compatible with your computer and your software. Splurge for something more expensive to make sure that you get the best sound possible.
Speakers for Mixing
Sometimes referred to as monitors in the pro world, speakers are essential to your recording studio. While you are doing your mixing, you will likely listen to the first few copies with headphones. You can catch more things with the in-ear sound. Toward the finished project, it is a good idea to playback on the speakers to ensure that it sounds right on all levels.
Cables for Speakers
You need cables in your studio. The only cables that you need when you first start out are the speaker ones, the microphone ones and the headphone ones. There are different levels of cables, ones that claim to be higher quality. As long as you have the right cable and the right connection to the computer, the lower-priced options are fine to get started with. The difference is rarely recognizable in the sound.
 Soundproofing
This should go without saying, but you need to make sure that your studio is completely soundproof. Even if there is a small amount of space in the booth, it can be picked up on the feedback. It is a good idea to start out by making the actual studio relatively soundproof. Take it one more level and be sure that the booth is completely soundproof.
Digital Audio Workstation
The DAW is where you will do all of the mixing for the tracks that you record. You will want to start with something simple, but that provides you with all of the tools that you need.
Audio Interface
This can be purchased in combination with the DAW to save money and effort, but it is an essential. This allows you to actually connect all of your recording equipment to your computer. The DAW is the software while this is the hardware.
Something To Record
What good will your recording studio do if you don’t have anything to say, sing, or play? Be sure to have something that you love to record and make sure that you do it right. It will likely take more than a few tries to get it where you love it, especially on your first try, but you will be pleased with the finished product once you have all of the proper equipment.
We hope that your recording studio is coming along great and that you have everything you need. Tell us, was there anything on this list that you may have forgotten?
If you’re in the beginning phases of opening your record label and would like more information on the industry and what to expect, check out how to start a record label business.Â