Creating an audio recording studio is a complex and expensive venture, but if you love the idea of recording your own music, the difficulties are worth it. Two items that sometimes are overlooked, but are still important, are microphones and headphones. Here are some tips to help you select the best possible equipment in these two categories.
Good headphones will allow you to record cleaner vocals, so these are important items. You wear these when recording vocal tracks so that you can listen to music and sing along without having to turn on speakers and add sound that your microphone will pick up. Using headphones translates to a more crisp and professional final production.
Good quality headphones typically start at around $50 and go up in price from there. You should be prepared to spend about $50 to $200 for headphones. You need to make sure that you buy headphones made specifically for audio recording. You don’t want the noise-canceling headphones you might use on an airplane; you just are trying to limit acoustic feedback.
Microphones are costlier than headphones, and their costs start at around the $100 mark and climb upwards. You should be prepared to spend at least the minimum amount. The final cost will vary depending on your needs and the complexity of what you wish to record.
There are two basic types of mics on the market: Condenser and Dynamic. Condenser microphones are quite sensitive to noise, which makes them better suited to recording studios than a dynamic mic. This is because in a recording studio, you have more control over outside noise than at a live venue or concert. In addition to sensitivity, condenser mics usually cost more, but the overall sound quality is usually much higher.
The Dynamic microphones are generally less expensive, however, they are more sensitive to sound, which makes them more suitable for situations when you are not recording. They also have their own power source and can handle more abuse, which makes them ideal for using for concerts and live venues.
If you are simply recording a few small instruments and vocals, a small-diaphragm condenser microphone is probably your best bet. If you do have a band and want to record drums, you will need a dynamic mic for the drums and possibly a mix of several other microphones.
When you are ready to start setting up your studio, be sure to spend some time talking with an expert. The audio recording equipment sales staff at AudioDawg.com can help you find the items you need that fit within the constraints of your budget and expertise. They also can suggest tutorials and classes that will help you hone your new recording skills.
Lance Bratten likes writing and talking about audio issues. For more information about Steinberg Cubase 6 suppliers in Dallas or to find a Waves Mercury bundle, please visit the AudioDAWg website today.