What Do I Need to Record Music at Home?
To record music at home you need six things: a computer, a DAW (recording software), an audio interface, a microphone, closed-back headphones, and a mic stand with an XLR cable. That's the whole starter kit. Everything else can wait.
The 6 essentials
| Item | Why you need it | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Computer | Runs the recording software | The one you own, if it runs a DAW |
| DAW | Records, edits, and mixes | Audacity is free; REAPER has a 60-day trial, then $60 |
| Audio interface | Mic preamp and converter to USB | Scarlett Solo 4th Gen: one mic preamp, $169.99 |
| Microphone | Captures vocals and acoustic instruments | AT2020 condenser, needs 48V phantom power |
| Closed-back headphones | Hear the track without it bleeding into the mic | Any closed-back studio pair |
| Mic stand and XLR cable | Holds the mic at a fixed distance | A tripod boom under $100 |
The full shopping list with picks is on the home recording equipment page, and the spend at each level is on how much a home studio costs.
What to skip at first
Skip a mixer, a separate preamp, and foam until you hit a real limit. Your interface already has a preamp, so a standalone preamp isn't needed, and monitors can wait until you mix. Before buying treatment, read do I need acoustic treatment.
Related questions
What equipment do I need to record a song at home?
The same six items: a computer, a DAW, an audio interface, a microphone, closed-back headphones, and a mic stand with an XLR cable. Guitar and bass can plug straight into the interface's instrument input.
Do I need studio monitors to start recording?
No. Closed-back headphones are enough to record and do a first mix. Add monitors when you start mixing seriously.
Can I record music at home for free?
The software can be free: Audacity costs nothing on Windows, Mac, and Linux. You still need a mic and, for an XLR mic, an interface.
Setup steps are in the home recording studio guide.
More answers: Home recording FAQ