How To Build A Home-Based Music Studio

IIn days gone by, it would have cost you thousands to make a basic music recording. You would spend ages writing music, only to hit a hurdle when you want people to hear it. For many, this was the stumbling block that meant your passion for music stayed only as a hobby.

Times have changed though. The music industry has changed.

With a new wave of musicians finding fame through social media, it is easier than ever to get your music heard. And with advances in technology, it’s now possible to produce a professional sound at a much more purse-friendly price.

DIY Studios For Amateur Musicians

Even in a relatively small home, it is possible to build your own music studio. Without missing out on any of the essentials. Whether you’re a solo artist, band, DJ, or producer, you can make high quality tracks in the comfort of your own home.

And the only thing you’ll need is a computer.

So how can you get started then? In this article we’ll look at everything you might need to build a great home-based music studio:

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1. Get Equipped

Your first port of call is to obviously ensure you have purchased all the equipment you may need. This includes investing in a powerful computer with all the capabilities you require. Depending on the age of your current PC, simply updating the software will be enough (see Point 2).

While you will already have all your instruments, you will need to invest in professional recording equipment. This will cover everything from microphones and amplifiers, to the cables that connect everything together.

Speak to your local music store who can advise you on the best soundcard and other pieces of equipment. Depending on the nature of your home studio, you will need different pieces of hardware.

2. Source Software

As well as this equipment, you also need to purchase the appropriate pieces of software. You can download a number of products that will help you record, cut, edit, and produce your music. All from your computer.

This software may come at a price, so download as many free trials as you can to see what works best for you. Alternatively, you can invest in a specialist computer that will come ready-programmed with many of these features.

Some software to consider includes: Cubase, Audacity, and DarkWave Studio.

Once you’ve purchased everything, take the time to play with everything. Get to know how it works, any shortcuts, and any short comings. By finding your way around everything now, you will be able to record in a quicker and more professional manner.

Image credit: Andez Flamenco on Flickr

3. Sound Proofing

Recording music in your home is fun for sure, but it can be a little rowdy. Before you get into the full swing of things, you should make sure your studio is adequately soundproofed. Not only for the sanity of the people you live with, but your neighbours too.

If proper soundproofing is a little out of your price range, there are some alternatives. Insulation and special carpets on the walls and floor can help muffle the sound.

When choosing the room for your studio, make sure you have considered soundproofing. If you have a basement, why not convert this? Keeping the sound levels to a minimum won’t be so much of an issue, and you can make music with minimal disruptions.

4. Get Mixing

With everything in place, it is time to start making music. As a musician, this is ultimately what you do best and need no instruction on.

The process in your home-based studio will be largely trial and error. Your first few tracks, mixes, and recordings may not be quite up to scratch. But the best thing about having your own studio is that this doesn’t matter.

You can take as many takes as you need until you’re happy with the track. What you do then is up to you.

Building a home-based music studio is an affordable alternative for artists on a budget. Making music – and making money from music – becomes a real possibility. And with so much freedom at your fingertips, is there any better alternative?

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