11 answers
Alexander
Student
Delavan, Wisconsin
3
Questions
Asked
1120 views
Do you need expensive and good equipment to make music?
I don't have any microphones or anything to start recording.
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11 answers
Salonda Ezell
Consultant
6
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Salonda’s Answer
Hi, Alexander. The answer is yes, eventually. However, do not let that stop you though. Get started now with what you have. As you continue and money comes in you can start making the investment in better quality equipment.
Thomas O'Shea
Music Producer, Composer, Live Sound Engineer, Musician
119
Answers
Madison, Wisconsin
Updated
Thomas’s Answer
Absolutely not. There are people (including me when I was starting out) who make music using only their phones and free apps. Quality comes from the artist and producer working on the music, NOT the equipment. Equipment is really nice to have and use, but you can totally get away with just a computer and headphones and add in an audio interface and a mic when you can. I'm working on 3 different project right now- one jazz recording, one folk recording and one alternative rock/ alternative pop song. All of these were recorded using affordable equipment (minus the Jazz recording) and all I'm simply using plugins that are already on Logic Pro (stock plugins) or free plugins I have found online. Create with what you have and slowly build up what you want.
I am really grateful you took the time to answer this question.
Alexander
John Graham
Music Producer
57
Answers
Bremerton, Washington
Updated
John’s Answer
Hi Alexander!
Basic production gear is needed, but it doesn't have to be expensive. Most people starting a home studio should consider the following:
1. Space: Bedroom OK - but don't record in the closet, it dampens your voice.
2. Computer / Laptop: You can record on your phone, but won't sound as good. If you have a laptop with 16GB or more of RAM you'll be good to get started. If you don't already have access to something, you can get a Dell Latitude at Walmart for $225.
3. Audio Interface: You need this to connect your mics / headphones, and other gear. You can get a Nuosiya on Amazon for $40, but I'd recommend at least a Focusrite Scarlett solo for $85 if you can afford it.
4. Studio Monitors: good to have, but optional just starting out and using headphones.
5. DAW: Garageband is free if you're an Apple person, so is Audacity for Windows; Reaper is very powerful and only $60 after a free 60-day trial.
6. Microphones: You can spend thousands of dollars on mics, but to get started - for performing (in public) you need a dynamic mic like Shure SM58 ($89 on Amazon), for studio recording you need a condenser mic, something like the MXL-770 would do the job for about $100.
7. Headphones + Headphone Amp: Again you can spend big bucks, and almost nothing too - but for a decent starter set there's the Shure 440A's for about $100.
8. MIDI Keyboard: If you want to be playing your own virtual instruments (as opposed to acoustic guitars, horns, piano, etc.) you'll need a MIDI keyboard / controller to connect to your computer. There are lots of these on Amazon from $40 or more. You might consider the Nektar Impact series which runs from $95 - $140 and is pretty full-functional.
9. Cables, Stands, and Hardware: Less than $150 total as you can afford it. Try to prioritize a mic isolation shield and pop filter (about $35) as soon as possible.
10. Room Treatment: Again nice to have, but optional starting out. Just make sure your recording space has rugs on the floor and blankets or cloth wall hangings on the walls. You can get creative with cloth furniture and ceiling treatments until you can afford something more formal.
So bottom line is you can get started from scratch for $600-700, less if you already have a computer.
When it comes time to distribute your music on the streaming services - it doesn't cost much to get it out there. For example Soundrop will get it out to all the major streaming services (and some social media) for you for 99 cents a song (even with free licensing if it's a cover song), and their cut is only 15% - so if your song makes a dollar, they get 15 cents and you get 85 cents.
Good luck and we look forward to hearing what you can do!
Basic production gear is needed, but it doesn't have to be expensive. Most people starting a home studio should consider the following:
1. Space: Bedroom OK - but don't record in the closet, it dampens your voice.
2. Computer / Laptop: You can record on your phone, but won't sound as good. If you have a laptop with 16GB or more of RAM you'll be good to get started. If you don't already have access to something, you can get a Dell Latitude at Walmart for $225.
3. Audio Interface: You need this to connect your mics / headphones, and other gear. You can get a Nuosiya on Amazon for $40, but I'd recommend at least a Focusrite Scarlett solo for $85 if you can afford it.
4. Studio Monitors: good to have, but optional just starting out and using headphones.
5. DAW: Garageband is free if you're an Apple person, so is Audacity for Windows; Reaper is very powerful and only $60 after a free 60-day trial.
6. Microphones: You can spend thousands of dollars on mics, but to get started - for performing (in public) you need a dynamic mic like Shure SM58 ($89 on Amazon), for studio recording you need a condenser mic, something like the MXL-770 would do the job for about $100.
7. Headphones + Headphone Amp: Again you can spend big bucks, and almost nothing too - but for a decent starter set there's the Shure 440A's for about $100.
8. MIDI Keyboard: If you want to be playing your own virtual instruments (as opposed to acoustic guitars, horns, piano, etc.) you'll need a MIDI keyboard / controller to connect to your computer. There are lots of these on Amazon from $40 or more. You might consider the Nektar Impact series which runs from $95 - $140 and is pretty full-functional.
9. Cables, Stands, and Hardware: Less than $150 total as you can afford it. Try to prioritize a mic isolation shield and pop filter (about $35) as soon as possible.
10. Room Treatment: Again nice to have, but optional starting out. Just make sure your recording space has rugs on the floor and blankets or cloth wall hangings on the walls. You can get creative with cloth furniture and ceiling treatments until you can afford something more formal.
So bottom line is you can get started from scratch for $600-700, less if you already have a computer.
When it comes time to distribute your music on the streaming services - it doesn't cost much to get it out there. For example Soundrop will get it out to all the major streaming services (and some social media) for you for 99 cents a song (even with free licensing if it's a cover song), and their cut is only 15% - so if your song makes a dollar, they get 15 cents and you get 85 cents.
Good luck and we look forward to hearing what you can do!
Thank you for sharing your perspective.
Alexander
Sami Souidani
Sound Design
2
Answers
Souk Ahras, Souk Ahras Province, Algeria
Updated
Sami’s Answer
"Hi Alexander,
I believe minimalism would increase your productivity, but we all know that you'll need some pieces of equipment when you start, so the answer to your question is yes and no.
1- Computer: You don't need an overclocked i9 14900K with 128GB of RAM, RTX 4090, and a 4TB M.2 Gen 5. Instead, you can opt for an i5 12600 or Ryzen 5 5600 (or 5600G if you can't get an external GPU). You can even consider using an older CPU since they are all good options. For RAM, 16GB would suffice for startup. It doesn't matter if you have a GPU. For storage, you'll need at least a 256GB SSD for the system and your DAW; make sure it has a DRAM. Additionally, you can use a 1TB HDD for libraries.
2- The DAW: You can use Cakewalk by BandLab, which is completely free. Alternatively, you can opt for Pro Tools, but you'll encounter some limitations. There's also GarageBand and FL Studio, which offer free trials. Find what suits you because it doesn't matter; they all perform the same job. However, it's advisable to learn Pro Tools and Cubase since most studios use these DAWs.
There are a bunch of Free Plugins there that you can get like Surge, Ozone Equalizer 11, Vital, and more.
3- The Audio Interface: You'll need at least two XLR inputs. You can choose the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen or any other compatible option. Avoid purchasing their headphones and mics; just ensure it's compatible with your DAW.
4- Studio Monitors: They are beneficial for mastering and are a much healthier choice than headphones. However, considering you may have roommates or neighbors, they are optional.
5- Headphones: This is a tough choice. You might need two headphones: one for recording (closed-back) and the other for mixing (open-back). If you plan to use both, start with one until you can afford the other. Options include the M30X, Sennheiser HD 280 Pro, or DT 770 Pro for closed-back and Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro for open-back.
6- The Microphone: You'll need to choose between a condenser mic or a dynamic mic. It's advisable to go with a dynamic microphone like the Shure SM57, SM58, or even Beta 57A. They have slight differences but will suffice for your needs.
7- MIDI Keyboard: This is an optional choice, but it would be much better if you have one. Ensure it's compatible with your DAW.
8- Room Treatment: This is optional when you have a dynamic mic.
Wish you good luck.
Computer: I5 10th Gen or equivelant, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, 1TB HDD
The DAW: GarageBand, Cakewalk by BandLab, Pro Tools
Microphone: Shure mics
Monitors: Headphones
Room Treatment: You can use mattresses for this purpose.
I believe minimalism would increase your productivity, but we all know that you'll need some pieces of equipment when you start, so the answer to your question is yes and no.
1- Computer: You don't need an overclocked i9 14900K with 128GB of RAM, RTX 4090, and a 4TB M.2 Gen 5. Instead, you can opt for an i5 12600 or Ryzen 5 5600 (or 5600G if you can't get an external GPU). You can even consider using an older CPU since they are all good options. For RAM, 16GB would suffice for startup. It doesn't matter if you have a GPU. For storage, you'll need at least a 256GB SSD for the system and your DAW; make sure it has a DRAM. Additionally, you can use a 1TB HDD for libraries.
2- The DAW: You can use Cakewalk by BandLab, which is completely free. Alternatively, you can opt for Pro Tools, but you'll encounter some limitations. There's also GarageBand and FL Studio, which offer free trials. Find what suits you because it doesn't matter; they all perform the same job. However, it's advisable to learn Pro Tools and Cubase since most studios use these DAWs.
There are a bunch of Free Plugins there that you can get like Surge, Ozone Equalizer 11, Vital, and more.
3- The Audio Interface: You'll need at least two XLR inputs. You can choose the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen or any other compatible option. Avoid purchasing their headphones and mics; just ensure it's compatible with your DAW.
4- Studio Monitors: They are beneficial for mastering and are a much healthier choice than headphones. However, considering you may have roommates or neighbors, they are optional.
5- Headphones: This is a tough choice. You might need two headphones: one for recording (closed-back) and the other for mixing (open-back). If you plan to use both, start with one until you can afford the other. Options include the M30X, Sennheiser HD 280 Pro, or DT 770 Pro for closed-back and Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro for open-back.
6- The Microphone: You'll need to choose between a condenser mic or a dynamic mic. It's advisable to go with a dynamic microphone like the Shure SM57, SM58, or even Beta 57A. They have slight differences but will suffice for your needs.
7- MIDI Keyboard: This is an optional choice, but it would be much better if you have one. Ensure it's compatible with your DAW.
8- Room Treatment: This is optional when you have a dynamic mic.
Wish you good luck.
Sami recommends the following next steps:
Thanks for the advice.
Alexander
Sami Souidani
Sound Design
2
Answers
Souk Ahras, Souk Ahras Province, Algeria
Updated
Sami’s Answer
"Hi Alexander,
I believe minimalism would increase your productivity, but we all know that you'll need some pieces of equipment when you start, so the answer to your question is yes and no.
1- Computer: You don't need an overclocked i9 14900K with 128GB of RAM, RTX 4090, and a 4TB M.2 Gen 5. Instead, you can opt for an i5 12600 or Ryzen 5 5600 (or 5600G if you can't get an external GPU). You can even consider using an older CPU since they are all good options. For RAM, 16GB would suffice for startup. It doesn't matter if you have a GPU. For storage, you'll need at least a 256GB SSD for the system and your DAW; make sure it has a DRAM. Additionally, you can use a 1TB HDD for libraries.
2- The DAW: You can use Cakewalk by BandLab, which is completely free. Alternatively, you can opt for Pro Tools, but you'll encounter some limitations. There's also GarageBand and FL Studio, which offer free trials. Find what suits you because it doesn't matter; they all perform the same job. However, it's advisable to learn Pro Tools and Cubase since most studios use these DAWs.
3- The Audio Interface: You'll need at least two XLR inputs. You can choose the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen or any other compatible option. Avoid purchasing their headphones and mics; just ensure it's compatible with your DAW.
4- Studio Monitors: They are beneficial for mastering and are a much healthier choice than headphones. However, considering you may have roommates or neighbors, they are optional.
5- Headphones: This is a tough choice. You might need two headphones: one for recording (closed-back) and the other for mixing (open-back). If you plan to use both, start with one until you can afford the other. Options include the M30X, Sennheiser HD 280 Pro, or DT 770 Pro for closed-back and Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro for open-back.
6- The Microphone: You'll need to choose between a condenser mic or a dynamic mic. It's advisable to go with a dynamic microphone like the Shure SM57, SM58, or even Beta 57A. They have slight differences but will suffice for your needs.
7- MIDI Keyboard: This is an optional choice, but it would be much better if you have one. Ensure it's compatible with your DAW.
8- Room Treatment: This is optional when you have a dynamic mic.
Computer: I5 10th Gen or equivelant, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD, 1TB HDD
The DAW: GarageBand, Cakewalk by BandLab, Pro Tools
Microphone: Shure mics
Monitors: Headphones
Room Treatment: You can use mattresses for this purpose.
I believe minimalism would increase your productivity, but we all know that you'll need some pieces of equipment when you start, so the answer to your question is yes and no.
1- Computer: You don't need an overclocked i9 14900K with 128GB of RAM, RTX 4090, and a 4TB M.2 Gen 5. Instead, you can opt for an i5 12600 or Ryzen 5 5600 (or 5600G if you can't get an external GPU). You can even consider using an older CPU since they are all good options. For RAM, 16GB would suffice for startup. It doesn't matter if you have a GPU. For storage, you'll need at least a 256GB SSD for the system and your DAW; make sure it has a DRAM. Additionally, you can use a 1TB HDD for libraries.
2- The DAW: You can use Cakewalk by BandLab, which is completely free. Alternatively, you can opt for Pro Tools, but you'll encounter some limitations. There's also GarageBand and FL Studio, which offer free trials. Find what suits you because it doesn't matter; they all perform the same job. However, it's advisable to learn Pro Tools and Cubase since most studios use these DAWs.
3- The Audio Interface: You'll need at least two XLR inputs. You can choose the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen or any other compatible option. Avoid purchasing their headphones and mics; just ensure it's compatible with your DAW.
4- Studio Monitors: They are beneficial for mastering and are a much healthier choice than headphones. However, considering you may have roommates or neighbors, they are optional.
5- Headphones: This is a tough choice. You might need two headphones: one for recording (closed-back) and the other for mixing (open-back). If you plan to use both, start with one until you can afford the other. Options include the M30X, Sennheiser HD 280 Pro, or DT 770 Pro for closed-back and Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro for open-back.
6- The Microphone: You'll need to choose between a condenser mic or a dynamic mic. It's advisable to go with a dynamic microphone like the Shure SM57, SM58, or even Beta 57A. They have slight differences but will suffice for your needs.
7- MIDI Keyboard: This is an optional choice, but it would be much better if you have one. Ensure it's compatible with your DAW.
8- Room Treatment: This is optional when you have a dynamic mic.
Sami recommends the following next steps:
Thank you, Sami for the advice.
Alexander
Onaope Owolabi
Sales Manager
14
Answers
Ilorin, Kwara, Nigeria
Updated
Onaope’s Answer
Hi Alexander!
You do need good equipment to make good music but if you don't have a microphone to do your recordings.
You can consider using the tools you have if they're good gadgets.
I hope these helps you.
You do need good equipment to make good music but if you don't have a microphone to do your recordings.
You can consider using the tools you have if they're good gadgets.
I hope these helps you.
Thank you, Onaope!
Alexander
Éverton Backes
Saxophone teacher
78
Answers
Joinville, State of Santa Catarina, Brazil
Updated
Éverton’s Answer
Hello Alexander! I have some exciting news for you. Equipment in the US is more affordable compared to Latin America, which is where I'm from. As you begin your initial recordings, all you need is some basic gear. Try purchasing microphones and other equipment from used goods sales or similar events. In my opinion, creativity should be your main focus rather than the equipment. Give it some thought and take care.
Thank you so much!
Alexander
Edward Granados
8
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Edward’s Answer
May sound weird but check pawn shops, in the past I had found some great equipment. Peace In Music..
Jessica Griffith
Student
22
Answers
Canton, Ohio
Updated
Jessica’s Answer
You need a laptop, a digital audio work station (daw system),headphones ,and speakers. Do you know how to use the equipment? If not there should be tutorials online w, if you want voice re ored, you need a microphone. Depending on the microphine condenser mics need phantom power and you need to be able to check gain, which is less eling out the sound, making it even in headphones. There is a lot to learn Good luck !!
Thank you for the advice, Jessica.
Alexander
Jessica Griffith
Student
22
Answers
Canton, Ohio
Updated
Jessica’s Answer
Just start off small and build your way up. Get the main components so you are able to record and add in all the other additions later. It will really pay off in the end. Have a good day !!
Ryan Flores
Business Ops
15
Answers
Springville, Utah
Updated
Ryan’s Answer
No. The quality of the creation lies with the skill of the creator - not with the tools used by the creator.
I've heard musicians, whom I consider to be masters, perform on cheap gear - the kind of stuff that can be bought at Walmart. What those masters are able to do is amazing.
And as far as music production goes, there are entire genres and sub-genres of music that thrive on making recordings with low fidelity. If your goal is to make pro-quality high-fidelity recordings one day, and simply don't have the gear to do that now, don't let that stop you. Learn everything you can with what you have now. It will make you all the more capable when you are able to upgrade one day.
I've heard musicians, whom I consider to be masters, perform on cheap gear - the kind of stuff that can be bought at Walmart. What those masters are able to do is amazing.
And as far as music production goes, there are entire genres and sub-genres of music that thrive on making recordings with low fidelity. If your goal is to make pro-quality high-fidelity recordings one day, and simply don't have the gear to do that now, don't let that stop you. Learn everything you can with what you have now. It will make you all the more capable when you are able to upgrade one day.
Thanks for your encouragement!
Alexander