Blog 1 | What do I need to start a high-end home recording studio?

A high-end home recording studio would require a range of equipment to ensure the best possible audio quality and expandable workflow. We here at Pro Audio LA specialize in all things production and recording, including high end home recording studios. Individual workflow preferences, available space and budget are key factors that affect what equipment can be incorporated into a high end home studio setup.

While this is by no means an exhaustive list, Here are some of the key pieces of equipment you would need:

1. Microphones: High-quality microphones are essential for capturing clear, detailed audio. For voice recording, a large diaphragm condenser microphone is generally the best choice, although a dynamic microphone can also work well in some situations. Some popular options include the AEA, Neumann, Soyuz, Manley, Chandler, Mojave and of course, Shure. Everybody needs at least one Shure mic.

2. Audio Interface: An audio interface is used to connect your microphones and other audio sources to your computer. It converts analog audio signals to digital signals that can be recorded and processed by your computer. Some interface brands that make the best high end interfaces, include Universal Audio, RME, Prism, Apogee, Lynx and of course, Avid. Some interface choices are limited to the operating system on your computer but most high end brands generally support Mac, Windows and Linux in some cases.

3. Digital Audio Workstation (DAW): A DAW is software that is used to record, edit, and mix audio. Some popular DAWs include Pro Tools, Logic Pro X, and Ableton Live. If you prefer to do things a little differently, Cubase, Nuendo, Harrison Console, Audacity and Reaper are all great options.

4. Studio Monitors: Studio monitors are high-quality speakers designed for accurate audio playback. They are essential for mixing and mastering audio. Some of the best studio monitor brands are made by Amphion, Genelec, Ex Machina, Focal, PSI, Grimm Audio, Dutch & Dutch, Adam etc.

5. Headphones: Headphones are also important for monitoring audio during recording and mixing. Closed-back headphones are generally the best choice for recording to avoid audio bleed, while open-back headphones are better for mixing. Some of the best closed-back options include the Beyerdynamic DT 1770 Pro, Sennheiser HD 650, Neumann NDH-20, Focal Stellia and of course the venerable Audeze LCD-XC

6. Acoustic Treatment: Acoustic treatment is used to reduce unwanted reflections and echoes in your recording space. This can include sound-absorbing panels, bass traps, and diffusers. Vicoustic, Mikodam, and Primacoustic are popular acoustic treatment brands. The shape and size of your room are the primary factors that will determine what type of acoustic treatment will be needed. Acoustic treatment also plays a big part in the aesthetics of your space, finding the right solution that provides the best acoustic performance as well as the right aesthetic is something that requires a bit of legwork. Thats where the acoustic treatment experts at Pro Audio LA come in! Contact us for acoustic treatment consultations and solutions.

7. Cables and Stands: You will also need various cables to connect your equipment. Literally half of our business is making custom cables! We have you more than covered on this! We can build custom tailored cabling solutions for your specific high end home studio needs. You will also need some mic stands for those excellent mics you have decided to include in your high end studio build. Yellowtec, Latchlake make the best stands out there.

8. This is an optional one - if your workflow includes a lot of guitar oriented work, then you might want to consider excellent modeling amplifiers like a Kemper, AxeFX, Quad Cortex or Positive Grid Bias. If you use traditional amps, then something like a Universal Audio Ox would make tracking your monster tube amps a breeze!

These are just some of the essential pieces of equipment for a high-end home recording studio. Talk to us about getting started on this journey, or if you are already on your way, let us know how we can help you get the home studio setup of your dreams!