Everything You Need to Record From Home
The years are flying by, and yet again, we’ve just entered a new decade. Are you finally ready to live out your teenage dreams of being a renowned rock star? Or has this global pandemic gotten you bored enough to suddenly develop a fondness for making music? May it be the former or the latter, or even none of the above, we’re here to help you realize your passion even within the four walls of your bedroom with our first blog for the year—Everything You Need to Record from Home.
- Computer
On top of our list is arguably the most important requirement in recording and audio production. It’s also the first one that you need to tick off of this list because, without it, the next elements would be useless.
In order to mix and process your music, you have to have a reliable computer that is fast and has a good amount of extra storage space. Why? Because you’ll be needing to install some music-making software, and surely, you’d want it to run smoothly and without any lagging. That brings us to our second item.
- DAW (Digital Audio Workstation)
Now that you’ve got your computer set up, it’s time to load it with a digital audio workstation. This refers to the software and applications that do all the music magic once you’re done recording. Among some popular choices by professionals are Pro Tools, Studio One, Audacity, Ableton, and Reaper.
A common trap that producers fall into is thinking that a good DAW depends on the genre that they’re aiming for, but really, you could achieve the same result even with different DAWs. This is because your output still largely depends on your input and not the software that you used to edit it with. Therefore, a good way to find out which DAW works best for you is by making use of the free trials and demos that they offer.
- Microphone
Oftentimes shortened to “mic”, this is the device that converts sound to electrical signals. Most—if not all of us—have probably used or seen a microphone at least once. You see this used by your favourite artist in concert or when watching the news, and you probably use it yourself when you’re doing karaoke with friends. However, when buying a microphone for professional audio recording, you should take note that there are different types that cater to different purposes. Most commonly used in the field are dynamic and condenser microphones. What’s the difference?
- Dynamic- this type is heavy-duty and perfect for recording loud sounds, such as drums. Though extremely durable, the sound is a bit more rugged compared to condenser microphones.
- Condenser- on the other hand, condenser microphones are more sensitive and are not suited for harsh environments, like gigs. The clear, accurate, and balanced sound that it produces is worth the compromise anyway.
- Studio Monitor
Its misleading name often has amateurs confuse it for a monitor, as in with the display screen. However, these are actually speakers, and they are specially designed for audio production—whether you’re a professional or an aspirant who wants to make some noise in the music industry. You might notice that the sound quality might be inferior to hi-fi or stereo speakers, but this neutrality serves as its edge. It brings your attention to minimal errors that you might not notice
otherwise because typical speakers offer sound enhancement that could conceal such flaws. The cost of studio monitors is a relatively small price to pay for the benefits that it could offer.
- Audio Interface
This is the piece of hardware that acts as a link between your computer and microphone, or computer and studio monitor, etc. Basically, audio interfaces enable you to connect external audio devices and most even have MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) inputs and outputs—all while providing a variety of other features, such as being able to use multiple studio monitors at once.
- Patience and Willingness
Sure, you’ve already got every necessary equipment to get you ready for recording from home, but that’d be nothing if you’re not equipped with the right attitude to learn and progress. Achieving your goals can’t be done overnight, so it’s imperative that you remain patient and willing to go through every single up and down of the process. It’s also worth mentioning that mistakes allow you to further grow and develop, and that failure is not the opposite of success—but a fundamental part of it.
Need more help with anything and everything about music production? Reach out to us and book a session at (02) 9053 8766.