AKARSH SHEKHAR
10
STUDIO ESSENTIALS
1
2
3
4
5
FOR YOU TO RECORD LIKE A PRO
Audio Interface
While an FX processor software is a viable option,
a hardware effects processor's tactile response is
unmatched. Go for a portable device with full-fledged
effects within a compact body which you can use
whenever and wherever you want.
Score pick: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Score Pick: Korg KAOSS PAD
Handheld Digital Recorder
Synthesizer
The handheld digital recorder is one of the most
versatile and handy tools of any studio. It usually has
high quality, adjustable stereo microphones. It's ideal
for voice, orchestras, choirs, acoustic instruments
etc. You can even plug your keyboard/digital piano/
electric guitar into it. Similar to the FX processor, there are quite a few
synthesizer softwares available in the market.
However, the ‘tactile feel’ argument applies here as
well. Choose one which is great for playing live on its
own, while also great for integrating with your Digital
Audio Workstation (DAW) software.
Score Pick: Zoom H4N Pro Score Pick: Korg Volca Keys Portable Synth
Microphone
Electronic Drum Kit
Making the correct microphone choice is a critical
decision for your home studio. Ask home studio
veterans and they will point you in the direction of
a large diaphragm condenser microphone. If you
choose one of those, ensure that your audio interface
has a phantom power switch. The ease of an electronic drum kit, where you can sit on
the drum throne, put on a set of headphones and blast
away without disturbing anyone else, is unmatched.
What's more, it can also be connected to your computer
directly via your audio interface so you don't have to spend
time putting mics on every piece of the kit. It's also a great
stress buster at the end of a long studio day.
Score Pick: AKG C1000S Multi Purpose Condenser Mic Score Pick: Roland V-Drums TD-4KP
USB MIDI Keyboard Controller USB Mixer
Even if you are not a dedicated keyboard player,
you will need a USB MIDI Keyboard Controller for
inputting drum beats, bass lines and regulating
virtual instruments' faders. You can also learn how
to read and write sheet music with the score writing
software. This is a good starter option for people who don't
already own an analog mixer that they like. If you
have your beloved analog mixer, just connect it to
the audio interface discussed above. If you don't,
you can get started with a USB Mixer which is a
complete mixing desk with a built-in audio interface.
Score Pick: Samson Graphite 49 Score Pick: Behringer Q1202USB 12-Channel Mixer
Headphones
40
6
7
8
9
10
FX Processor
As far as a top notch home recording studio is
concerned, an audio interface is its core element.
Connect your microphones and instruments to this
box so that it can convert your wonderful music into
digital signals for your computer.
The
USB Microphone
Aside from not disturbing your neighbours while
listening to your mix, you will also need a good
set of headphones to directly monitor your vocal
tracks during recording. Go for closed-back
headphones for great, leakage-free sound. If you want to avoid the hassle of buying new audio
interface, microphones and all the cables that come
with it, a USB Microphone is a good place to start.
These plug and play devices are very versatile and
produce high quality recordings with minimal
noise.
Score Pick: Sennheiser HD 280 Pro Headphones Score Pick: Audio Technica AT2020USB Plus
Score Magazine
highonscore.com