The democratization of the recording studio business has been taking place since the late 70s, with many professional engineers, artists, and enthusiasts setting up home studios. This has been made possible due to the decrease in cost and size of home studio technology. The benefits of having studios in their homes include more affordable costs to record their music. In fact, the home studio has become so popular that it has put a number of commercial recording studios out of business.
The Accessible Home Studio
Home studios are more accessible than ever and can cost as little as around $2,000 to set up. People can now easily set up a home studio in a limited amount of space. Recording equipment has become so compact that it is now possible to accommodate all the equipment needed on a regular-sized desk. Apart from being much cheaper than commercial studios, artists can be much more spontaneous, having the studio in their own homes. All it takes are seven pieces of equipment and, don’t forget, a couch for artists to relax on in between recordings.
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Necessary Equipment; a Computer
Apart from a couch for your artists, you will also need a chair for the person making or mixing the music. As far as technology is concerned, a good computer will be required as it is at the heart of the studio. The computer will need to be fast with adequate storage for all the soundtracks that will be created.
Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) and Audio Interface
A DAW such as Logic or Cubase is necessary to allow recording on the computer. These programs enable the engineer to select from thousands of virtual instruments and experiment with their sounds and sound effects. The audio interface facilitates voice recordings and any real instruments that may be wanted on the soundtrack.
MIDI Keyboard and Studio Monitors
A MIDI keyboard is another essential piece of equipment in home studios. Similar to a mini electronic keyboard, it allows artists to add virtual instruments and sound effects to the soundtracks. Studio monitors are essential for hearing what the soundtrack sounds like.
Headphones and Microphones
It is vital to get a good pair of headphones that give a realistic sound replication. They will also need to be noise-canceling so the engineer is not distracted by outside sounds. Good-quality microphones will also be needed for top-quality recordings to capture both live instruments and vocals.
Technology has been the driving force for disrupting many industries, and music recording is no exception. Artists are reaping the benefits of home studios in terms of costs and increased artistic spontaneity.