Equipment Checklist
So, you’ve decided that you want to invest in some better equipment to begin creating your own projects… Well you’ve come to the right place.
it’s important to note that these recommendations have been made with the efforts of combining budget friendly options with long-lasting reliable options.
What You Need;
DAW (Digital Audio Workstation)
Audio Interface
XLR Microphone
Headphones
Midi Keyboard
DAW
The DAW you use will depend on the computer you have at hand. If you have an iMac or Macbook, then you will have access to Garageband and Logic Pro X. Both of these are fantastic options for beginners, and they are also used in the wider industry.
Garageband is a FREE option however, in future, I would reccomened investing in Logic Pro X (£199.99).
For those who do not have an apple computer, there are also many great DAWs you can use.
The best beginner-friends softwares are FL Studio and Ableton Live.
Audio Interface
An Audio Interface is used to connect microphones and instruments to your computer by converting the analogue signal to digital data.
I’d recommend the beginner-friendly staple: the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (£129.99).
This audio interface has 2 inputs, and 2 outputs.
This will allow you to record two microphones/ instruments at once, and having two outputs also allows you to connect two speakers if you wish to.
XLR Microphone
An XLR microphone can only be used if you have an Audio Interface - it’s important that if you buy one of these, you also purchase an Audio Interface.
The Rode NT1-A is a classic staple whuch is available for £149.99.
While there are cheaper alternatives, this is a long-lasting and effective microphone - I still use mine!
Headphones
Headphones are important when creating or mixing music - after all, if you can’t hear the audio to a high quality, then you will not know if it sounds good.
Considering this is a beginner checklist, budget is important. With this in mind, I’d recommend the Audio Technica ATH-M20x (£50.00) - however, if you do have the extra space in your budget, I’d upgrade to the Audio Technica ATH-M50x for £145.00.
Midi Keyboard
A Midi keyboard is useful for all sorts of things - not only can you play digital instruments, but you can also control audio effects with the knobs which is a fun way to get hands on in music technology.
The standard Midi keyboard is an Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3, £79.00.
Goodluck in the beginning of your music journey - if you need any help setting up this equipment, be sure to email us at contact@compressher.com and we will be happy to help!
