hi, i went to the sweet water website and there's a mic + headphone + audio interface bundle that is $109, and i was wondering if that would be worth it, or if its better to save up and get all the stuff you recommended separately
I watched this video 7 months ago. Now I own a record label and have invested over 30,000$ into my dream studio. I remember researching for hours on how to make a perfect studio under 400$ and I was about to give up until this video. If it wasn’t for this video I probably wouldn’t have come to this level Of music production thank you
Man, that's cool that you've gotten so successful! Since you have a record label, I'm guessing you've released songs on different music apps. What name do you release stuff with?
This dude probably just made the most realistic and also motivating video for a rookie ass musician like me, showing our cheap asses where to step in. Great stuff man.
My brother passed away last month he was really gifted at making techno music... I want to make my own music preferably pop.. I want to make him proud.. this was very helpful I’m going to buy everything from this video.
@@GW1D one of my friends I met who has songs in Spotify.. sent me a bunch of links to get a studio setup I ended up spending around 800 dollars for everything works great!
I'm so sorry for your loss, may he rest peacefully ❤️ Your desire to want to honor him by making music yourself is so beautiful, I hope your music journey has been going well!
@@CaptainCocaine actually for that price you can get the Steinberg ur22. Heard tons of people having troubles with scarletts sounds interfaces. This guy seems sponsored or something thb. And the other stuff in the video can be replaced by higher tier at the same price... (And wtf 1:15 keyboard in mono Line IN? this guy really think recording keyboard in mono is a good idea? And.... he have his monitors on the desk wich is a big mistake, you can get a pair of monitor stands for 40 bucks XD)
@@AlexLassaMusic This is a bare bones "example" of how to get started. The idea, (if you follow the next video), is to make a "scratch track". It is true there are some issues with Focus rite and windows 10, and since he has a Mac, he may be unaware. I like Steinberg too and own a UR44. But it is not $100.00.
You know its funny because about 6 months ago I thought I would try out your $300 studio challenge but because I live in Australia I couldn't purchase everything you were recommending due to it only being available in America. So instead I had to compromise and surprisingly enough, every single product you recommended in this video I actually purchased, the Focusrite Scarlet innerface, the Samson c01 everything! Glad to know that what I bought was actually perfect for me. Everything works and sounds just as great as you said they did. Better listen to this guy guys, he know what he's on about... I would know ;-)
What Brayden said is true. Before I even discovered Graham's channel (which I did a few weeks ago), last month, I coinceidentally bought a scarlett interface and the samson c01, and they really are all you need for starting a home recording studio, along with a pop filter, a mic stand, and studio headphones (and of course instruments, unless you choose to use synthetic instruments). Although, I've been having problems with my audio having pops and crackles when I record and playback (no clipping, just unknown pops and crackles which worse over), but the problem may just be with my laptop (still don't know the root of the problem). Other than that annoyance, everything Graham recommended in the video is perfect, and his advice should definitely be followed.
If you have the cash, I say go. There is even a Scarlett Solo studio pack which already comes with a condenser mic and headphones aside from the audio interface (though I'm not sure about the quality of the mic or headphones, so you'll have to check vids or articles on them). But if you're interested in getting the scarlett solo, and then a separate samson c01, you won't be making a bad choice since I can say that I'm happy with the c01 so far in the past few weeks since I've had it. Definitely worth the upgrade if you're starting to get a little serious with recording.
okay sounds good!! and which headphones are you using, does it matter right now i have beats by dre? i think i'll stick with my snowball until i can save up but ill definitely keep it in mine thanks so much for the reply!
done that with a couple of "woolies" and it worked great. Another was a coat hanger bent into the shape of a filter frame, with pantyhose stretched over it, held on stand with pair of vice grips. Still have it actually. :)
xDGx they all have a feee version: Ableton, ProTools, LogicPro, Cubase... but I’d like to see a comparo of the free versions. Seems GarageBand is the best of the free, beginner DAWs. I’m also just getting started and trying to figure it out.
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I built a entire recording room in my garage. It's the size of a phone booth but i completely sound proofed it to around 28 decibels. It has all the recording devices you'll ever need, microphone, even put a black light in it to give the artist a vibe. I only charge 20 and hour to give guys a chance to maybe blow up or just have a little fun creating their own music. I enjoy doing it as a little side hustle and that's the thing i'm most proud of. Honestly all of the gear not including my recording software and PC was around $500 but that is because i bought a $1,200 mic so you can make things cheaper if you really try.
I have a focusrite 2i2 & I tell you it's the best piece of equipment I own ,i love listening to music and making music on that thing ,all I'm missing is a good mic
I'd recommend the 2i2 or 2i4 strongly over the Solo, because the Solo doesn't have a separate volume for speakers and headphones. I'm always able to turn my speakers down but leave my headphones on when I'm tracking, then turn them back up afterwards. With the Solo you can't do this.
Locutz M I've got that too! I'd try whatever mic he mentioned or the Samson CS series, it's like 40 bucks and apparently pretty good (though I've never used it so do your own research)
if your room is untreated, get a condenser mic and a reflection filter, or get a dynamic mic and you wont really need the filter unless your room has lots or echo
I would like to add that if you buy used on Kijiji, Ebay or Craigslist, you can cut that price in half or get better for the same price point. Also, getting Reaper as a DAW instead of the light DAWS included with the Scarlet would cost you 60$ and be more feature-packed and less limited. Just my two cents...
Reaper is a great DAW, especially for its price! I've listed it in one of my videos too. Not to mention the amount of free DAWs out there that can get you started.
As a recording engineer, this video was clear and concise, on the simple aspects of getting started with minimal cost. The real blessing is software, with plug in's. Compressors and Eq adjustments, along with the ability to bounce tracks also allows one to build up their projects and edit. After that, mastering your final mix into your finished music vision.
In photography this effect is called Moiré. It happens when a pattern's density exceeds sensor resolution. As the subject moves, the recorded pattern shifts, creating this effect.
I've done studio work between the 1960's and 2000, mostly with tape machines. I just turned 70, and want to get my 2 dozen original songs done again (All the former demos are lost, long story). So this video is perfect. It's like going to elementary school after graduating from college. Thanks. Oh, I also have some stand-up comedy routines which need recording.
Dude!! I'm sorry to just find this now. Thank You. I can't agree with this more. I've been recording 20+ years and it can be so hard to convince people of this. It's so important to remember art is all about the creative process and not the gear. I'll be citing this vid from now on!!!
I am going to be building a home studio and my biggest concern is getting the best recordings possible. This gentleman is correct in that you dont have to break the bank to do this?
Thank you sooo much, Graham! I am a 12-year-old w/ a good set of pipes, musical fingers, and a dream to make music. I have about $450-$500 dollars saved for a studio...this was extremely helpful to me, for I don't know a thing about making tracks. Keep up the good work!!
Thank you! This may be the first video I have ever watched that was a total beginner level and did not immediately talk 'over my head' ... really appreciate it!
If you're just starting out this is possible with a cheap laptop. Remember this is just starting out. I'd say all you really need is a Midi keyboard and software tbh. Remember you can add to it later. I'd recommend Cakewalk the cheapest one, a Midi and that's it. You can add monitors, external HD, mic, interface, etc. later.
Ceasar Haphazard They just released a new Sonar. They update their software with the same capabilities of everyone else's. They just had a holiday sale for Christmas. However, I might be moving to Logic....still undecided but my cousin who is a producer was showing me some things and he and I will be doing projects together so using the same program would help us out when sending music back and forth for overdubs and he is better at mixing and mastering than I am.
Cory Rimpson alright. I got an email from cakewalk saying they weren’t making any new products anymore. That’s where I got it from. I’ve been using sonar x2 for several years and am probably moving to pro tools soon for my music
Ceasar Haphazard I just looked into it. They just stopped releasing products in November, my bad, I thought you were saying they stopped years ago lol. Yeah I think their last release was in 2017. You can still purchase the past products on their website too. Their cheapest software is 50 dollars, I believe. I mean if you're just getting your feet wet, that's good to make some basic music without all the extra dressing lbs.
Cory Rimpson that’s exactly what I was doing. Learned a lot about recording on it but I need something more extensive and hands on. You’re right though sir
I've been a home musician all my life but never had the courage to build my own home studio. I've been invited to be a co-host on a very large call in you tube channel and can have a very basic studio set up. But I'm going to buil a dual purpose set up with this as the base. Thank you so much for making it simple. My purchases start today.
fantastic advice. If someone is looking for a high end mic I recommend the DIY build kit of the S-87 mic from the website microphone-parts. Its costs 350$. Usually the high end mics cost over 3000$. The S-87 is a clone of the legendary Neumann U-87Ai. You have to know your way around a soldering iron to assemble it but what you get for the price is so incredibly worth it. Sounds so buttery smooth. I also own an Apex 460 and an Mk-4 but now I only foresee myself using the S-87
For headphones I'd recommend the legendary Sony MDR V6. They have been in studios across the globe for the last 25+ years! Not only that, you can get a pair for only $59-79 depending on where you purchase them and the flat response on them is amazing! What you HEAR in your mix with these headphones is what you'll get when you hear the end result. If it sounds like you have too much bass when mixing, you'll have too much bass! If the highs sound to quiet with the headphones, that's how it'll sound on every other setup. It's actually at the point where I prefer mixing these days with my Sony MDR V6s despite the fact that I have Yamaha HS 50s and the HS80's and I STILL prefer mixing with only my headphones.
i've got beyerdynamics dt 990 pro, very good headphones for around 100€. they are very well balanced and i've seen them in a lot of recording videos (so even at this low price widely used still)
@@Damian-rk9do I'm definitely not sponsored. Wish I was because lord knows I could use the money. But no. It's also not copied and pasted as someone else said. But as someone who wears headphones more often than NOT wearing headphones. I felt like I'd wake you guys up before you go out and spend 200-300 on some "BEATS BY DRE" which are fucking trash! I've been using MDR 6's for literally 30 years. My grand father got me into music and he owned a pair of SONY MDR V6's and he was very big into professional audio. By the time I was in my teens I bought my own pair and despite owning dozens of pairs of headphones I always go back to the Sony's because they're simply better than every other pair.
My setup is: Monitors: Tascam Vl5s 240 $ Headphones: Sony Mdr 7506 100 $ Audiointerface: Lexicon Alpha 60 $ No micrphone yet because i dont need it right now , Overall 400 $ i think its a good starter setup
Just another recommendation for people that are watching videos trying to make the right desicion on what to buy: Check out the Focusrite Scarlett studio one It includes a mic, headphones, the audio interface he recommended and a XLR cable. It's an all in one package if you want to start making music and I am so happy with mine.
I recently set up a "studio" with the focusrite solo, an Akai mpk mini midi keyboard, a clone sm57 and clone Neumann condensor, mic stands and made some decent van damme cables all from Ebay for just over £150. Focusrite still let you setup an account and provide the software on used items and even list Ebay as one of the purchase place options. Flipping awesome!
Thanks man. I really appreciate you putting this out there. Just starting out so I did not want to spend a lot of money on equipment. You've done your good deed for RU-vid. Keep on rocking.
Azrael Almighty I'm from the hood. hung with killers and drug dealers. as I said, that's just stupid. most ghetto people are very ignorant. Rich, autistic, dueche bags create most of these slang words and trends.
have finally decided it's time to have my own at-home studio, will buy everything I need now (: and I will be back to update how it goes. Thanks for this video!
Got all the equipment a while back already! I think pro tools 1st, the free version that comes with the audio interface is not very good, doesn’t let me record with my voice template or anything. So I plan to soon upgrade to pro tools standard, and start actually recording. But I’m happy I did this, and at the studio I record at Im learning a lot about engineering. So :) will be back to update at some point.
M3 pro digital interface, $30 on eBay. Pre amp DI box $35 on eBay Set of headphones I had already, $10 at either Walmart or Target I can't remember now. I had to bring my laptop back to windows 7 but the advantage was that I don't have all the useless updates that come with windows 10. Audacity or an older version of waveform, free. A large diaphragm mic and pop filter for $20I'm recording broadcast quality for about $150. I'm also being told by recording engineer friends they wish they could get the quality I have at the price I paid for my studio.
Great video - basically, in 10 mintes you learn what took me a year or more to find out on my own! The headphones really do sound great and are afordable, the scarlett gives you a really nice and clear sound, I just haven't tried the mic. The POP filter... never again without it! :D For a DAW - Reaper is free basically and it's amazing and there is also a ton of free plugins that are great as well.
OMG...it's SO-O-O-O-O refreshing to hear an *intelligent adult* present this information!!! I have just suffered though watching a half dozen braindead out kids attempting to post their wacky tutorials on YT, and just seeing your instructional video was like getting out of an insane asylum early. THANK YOU for posting this my friend, it is truly appreciated:)
Yes a lot of those kids are annoying and they often have music playing at excessive volume too. But don't dismiss them all. Some have a way of presenting info that some adults over-complicate.
I just started my home recording studio. My songs are already on ITunes as (THE SOUND PAINTER B.K.N.Y.)and I want to thank you for all the wisdom and knowledge you have given me. You have help me so much. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You! If I ever make any money it was because of unselfish, wonderful people like you! Love you Brother. May God Bless you!
These nylon pop filters are really popular but if you have clever mic placement you don't really need them. Pop filters (even the expensive ones) tend to diffuse the high frequencies and although the effect is minimal, it is present and perceptible. Metal pop filters are actually better for preserving high frequency response.
I think I just found my favorite RU-vid channel. I'm trying to get into making my own music both for my band and for myself (and my RU-vid channel). I came to this video looking for things to add to my Christmas list, and I already had most of this stuff, so I'm pretty excited to learn how to use Pro tools first and get my studio going
Thank you Gram. This is literally a time saver. So much noise out there in retail. Great tip with that Focusrite scarlet coming with great software. One reviewer said he went from the solo to the bigger one because the Solo does not have headphone valume.
Thanks for the advice, bro. I've always worked in somebody else's studio, but now I'm getting my own for the first time. My budget has gone beyond the $350 already, but your guide will help me choose other stuff I still need. May The Force be with you.
EpicZEVEN I hope you understand that the daws you are getting are insanely limited and you really cant get away with using them if you want to sound half decent. Save up and buy the full version if your preffered daw.
well, you can always use Ardour or LMMS. even now you can DJ with Mixxx ^ all are open source and free (with exception of Ardour, which you need to find a legal copy not in their site for yourself, compile it yourself, or buy one-time download for like $1?) or get REAPER, which is always in trial like WinRAR.
I just ordered everything you suggested from Sweetwater. I'm super excited. I hope it's all awesome. Can't wait to get it! Thanks for the recommendations
It's 2020, so roughly three years after you did this video. Have there been substantial changes in the industry that would cause you to change any of your recommendations? I'm getting ready to build a little studio for my kids. Fantastic video, by the way. Audio quality is spot on. Super super clean.
I would not recommend the Focusrite Solo if you are a keyboard player, as the instrument input is mono, and you need stereo unless you are going to rely totally on virtual instruments (but it has no MIDI interface). Also, if you play acoustic guitar and want to sing and record your instrument at the same time, you need TWO microphone preamps. The Focusrite 2i2 or 2i4 (with MIDI) is worth paying the extra for.
Remember, though, that virtual instruments (if you're going to rely solely on them) don't require a MIDI interface. Many keyboard controllers today are connected via USB, which is kind of handy.
I personally love the AKG K240 headphones! They run like $60.00 at the most...They used to cost over 120.00...These newer ones are made in China, but...they are every bit as good as the originals! These have been a studio standard for years and years...Best sound I've heard!
Almost all Venues to perform live gigs, have p/a gear already, my whole song sets come off my computers, including all my vst hosting...except for the few live instruments is use, but they are mic. Used to be that bands would have to bring truck loads of p/a , Now you just need your computer . I take a few midi controllers , a few things, to look like a band but mainly for show. Bands now just plug and play basically, I can take a whole gig in my lexus car., because with my computers , i just set up a table a few keyboard stands, plug all in and plug into the rat tail of the venue. My Controllers are USB powered, so only have one electric plug really if off my laptop. Gigs can be a dream not a chore.
It's not ideal, but with almost all reputable DAW's costing well in excess of $200*, a beginner producer isn't really left with that much choice. Either way, you're not gonna get sued for pirating a DAW lmao
well, Ardour and REAPER is great. Live Lite comes with almost every controller and audio interfaces sold. get Presonus stuff, you'll end up with Studio One, but without VST support. But if you're recording external instruments, that's fine. so yeah, I don't think you have reason to pirate.
Very helpful guide! I have some questions that maybe someone with more experience than myself might be able to answer.. I am on the market for pretty much everything except a computer.. ! What I am going to need the equipment for is: 1. Record my guitar (both electric and acoustic - without the need of recording vocals. 2. I am making videos that will require voice over and narration (documentaries and stuff..) and 3.Videos that will capture the sound of my vinyl record player whilst the camera is at a still frame on the record that will be spinning. So.. with all that in mind, and considering the fact that I have heard many different views and recommendations on the matter.., I am a bit confused as to what the best budget products for my RU-vid channel are going to be.. For instance, I have heard that instead of the Scarlett solo , one should wait and invest into a Scarlett 2i4 because the latter will not 'clip' the sound of the instrument.. (is that true?). I was also thinking that the best recording outcome will be achieved if I was to get a dedicated mic to record my guitar (the one I have in mind is the Sennheiser e609 or any Dynamic mic for that matter) , and not an ''all-arounder'' mic.. and also, on the matter of monitoring my sound .. I ve heard that using headphones instead of monitor speakers will result into a very bass-focused sound and hence it will affect the final outcome of the recording.. I would really appreciate any views and suggestions on the stuff that I am mentioning, and any recommendations from the people who are experienced in the whole home recording field will be great help!! Thanks in advance. (PS. I am obviously on a very tight budget... so the more affordable the stuff , the better... :P )
I have a Scarlett 2i2 bundle pack. Comes with interface, mic, lead, headphones. The bundle packs save you time and hassle buying components separately. You can always upgrade later. The Mic is great. Defintely need a Mic stand and consider 2 - traditional boom stand essential and desktop. Pop filter is a must. I use garage band that comes on my Mac pro. Simple set up with great results. If you're into creating own stuff with vocals seriously consider upgrade with 2 inputs. You will not regret decision. Allows you to work guitar and Mic at same time. I wouldn't record like that for final takes but great for ideas and tinkering that gets recorded so you don't forget and can build on. Best thing is you don't have to keep plugging leads in and out to switch and work on different tracks. Can also get a second Mic and record acoustic through 2 mics. Yeah it will cost bit extra but great investment and will keep you going for a while.
Thank you!!! This is extremely straight forward and explains a lot for a beginner like myself. Now I've been singing my whole life, and if I would have known this is all it would have taken for me to start recording I would have done it eons ago. But alas, I am about to turn thirty next month so seems like it's time to take the plunge into my artistry. Thanks again for all the info 🥰
Good advice, but I would go for the scarlett 2i2 if you can afford it ($160 vs $99). You can record stereo sources like keyboards that way. Mixing on headphones is a great way to save money but be sure to take breaks and reference your mix at some point on another system because it will shock you how different things sound in a live space.
Ari get a part time job at local barbershop and you should have the money for all the things in 2 checks unless you get paid out of pocket you may make $50 per day so you will take a little less maybe somedays you get paid more 🧾💰
Six years later and this video is still super-helpful, thank you! Just ordered a Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen), a Samson CO1 mic and some KRK KNS8400 (updated from the 6400) headphones.
this is great we had someone build my son up and said he was gonna help put in a studio and left him high and dry so as a momma I had to find out what's needed and do it my own self. Thank you sir this is very helpful
After watching this guy I've just paid £102 for the Focusrite Scarlett Solo. This young man seems to know what he's talking about & does not beat around the bush. I can't wait to get recording.
Thanks! I don't need all the features you talked about, but sounds good! I plan to create an audio book and my logitec headset boom mic, just does cut it! Carl
You have encouraged and inspired me as a singer songwriter to build my very own budget recording studio in my living room. 4 years ago I became seriously ill and disabled I’m now wheelchair reliant. You could say things are a little tricky! However I like a challenge. I’m using Pro Tools 2020 and really enjoying discovering what I can do with it. I’m not used to setting up my own condenser mic 🎙 have you any tips on positioning the Condenser mic?
i took the course under graham recording revolution, and in less than a year period i was able to produced this song ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-LtSSuPYcQI0.html
@@ijanmarcus5087 my man, thats cool. i mean you still got a long way to go with the mixing stuff but this is enough to prove that we just need to START rather than keep searching for the best method. i am totally inspired 🤩
Great video. Yeah, it's two years old, but I learned a lot form it. Today I ordered everything on this list. If I hadn't found this video, I wouldn't have been bitten by the bug. There are plenty of videos out there for someone on a $2K budget, but that isn't me.
This ad had the audacity to tell me that this video won't help me with music production. Pssh! I skipped them and am staying subscribed sir! Thanks for your intuitive and helpful direction man!
Great video that honors its title without getting lost in technicalities that, at this point (the very beginning), are not needed. Granted that sky is the limit when it comes to recording audio equipment, but this video is intended for the inexperienced and the newcomer to start recording audio without breaking the bank and take their first steps within this field. Thank you very much Mr. Cochrane for your common sense, knowledge and generosity for uploading this video. DELRELES
You seem really down to earth, really humble, really understanding of the fact that not everybody has got thousands and thousands of dollars that they can afford to spend on gear (but that doesn't mean that they are not serious/passionate about recording music), seem really approachable and earnest, and also knowledgeable too! Thanks for putting together this material. It helps a lot! P.S. you don't talk like those pretentious, super up-their-arse elitist sound engineers that look like they have been admitted into to the holy dogmatic church of sound engineering.
Lee W I've never used a Mac, so I can't really speak to that. It's my understanding that Macs are easier to get up and running, and artists seem to love them. PCs are more flexible in terms of hardware because you're not locked into Apple products. PCs may be easier to maintain in the long run, but it would be interesting to hear from someone who has experience with both.
With the tech that we have at our disposal for free is amazing. I’m starting my podcast journey and so far I have bought a lav mic for recording on free DAW app’s for android. So less then $6 I paid on the mic from amazon. Free podcasting host and all that. 100% mobile the power that you hold in your hand every day is truly amazing!
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i have studio monitors and a sub i use for most of my production process but my ath-m50x's are my final mastering and mixing tool and they are increeedible. i have used them for years prior to getting any decent equipment and ive never been let down.
I just use them flat out use them for everything. You really can't go wrong with them. I always wondered, what is the benefits of using studio monitors when you can just you headphones?
That's not entirely true, bass is slightly boosted and I have a suspicion that the highs are slightly scooped. The bass is definitely boosted. Good headphones regardless, but they are not perfectly or nearly perfectly flat.
I own the ATH as well. But try Yamaha MT-7 - they are definitely a lot clearer than the ATH and very "microscopic" kind of sounding! Meanwhile i use them all of the time.
Thank you! I am very new to this and have spent many hours trying to find a place to start. I just found your channel. I have absolutely no business singing into a microphone, but want to record my progress as I learn and tweak music I record. You cut through all the other crap I was confused about and got right to the needs for getting started I am going through a good number of your very instructive videos and greatly appreciate what you are doing, so thank you for helping me start. I have some equipment arriving today. I am more excited and much less apprehensive than I would have been without your explanations of how it all fits together. Thank you!
Thank you for this video. The next step for me is to get into recording and this is very helpful. Does the software you mentioned have capabilities to make drum beats? Unfortunately I have to little kids and no room for a drum set. I’d like to be able to add that to my sound as well. If not which software would you recommend for making drum beats? I am playing rock/metal music and would prefer a platform that is easy to manipulate
