In the ever-evolving landscape of home recording studios, having the right gear is essential for capturing high-quality audio. Whether you're a seasoned music producer, a budding podcaster, or a voice-over artist, the recording equipment you choose can make a significant impact on the final product. As we step into 2024, the options for recording gear have expanded, offering a plethora of features and advancements to enhance the recording experience.
From audio interfaces to studio monitors, microphones, headphones, and digital audio workstations (DAWs), each component plays a crucial role in shaping the sound and overall production quality. Understanding the quantifiable indicators for each piece of equipment, such as sample rate and bit depth for audio interfaces, frequency response for studio monitors, polar pattern for microphones, impedance for headphones, and features of the DAW, is key to making informed decisions. In this guide, we'll explore the best recording gear for home studios in 2024, shedding light on the importance of each component and providing valuable insights to help you navigate the ever-expanding market of recording equipment.
Universal Audio Apollo Twin X: Best Audio Interface for Professional Use
Summer discount of 50%Universal Audio Apollo Twin X Duo Heritage Edition... -- $370.62(AliExpress.com)
Apollo Twin X DUO Heritage Edition -- $999(Amazon)
Authentic Universal Audio APLTWXD Apollo Twin X Duo Thunderbolt -- $292.78(AliExpress.com)
Universal Audio Apollo Twin x Duo Heritage Edition Thunderbolt Audio Int... -- $999(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Universal Audio Apollo Twin X stands out for its elite-class A/D and D/A conversion, making it a top choice for professional audio production. It also offers the added benefit of UAD plugins for real-time tracking, mixing, and mastering, which can significantly enhance the quality of your audio projects. Despite its higher price point, the current summer discount makes it a more accessible option for those looking to invest in high-quality audio equipment.
Who It's For
This product is best suited for professional musicians, audio engineers, and serious hobbyists who require top-notch audio conversion and real-time processing capabilities. However, it might not be the best fit for beginners or those on a tight budget, even with the current discount.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Elite-class A/D and D/A conversion | ❌ High price point, even with discounts |
| ✅ Includes a premium suite of 5 award-winning UAD plugins | ❌ Mac-only LUNA Recording System integration |
| ✅ UAD DUO Core Processing for near-zero latency | ❌ Might be overkill for beginners or casual users |
Shure SM7B: Best Versatile Dynamic Microphone
Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Vocal Microphone for Live Broadcast Recording -- $287.99(Walmart - Shure Store)
SM7B Dynamic Vocal Microphone -- $359(Amazon)
Shure SM7B Cardioid Dynamic Microphone -- $99(The Baby Cubby)
Professional SM7B Studio Selectable Frequency Response Microphone Cardio... -- $110.93(AliExpress.com)
Why We Picked It
The Shure SM7B is a versatile dynamic microphone renowned for its smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response, making it ideal for a variety of professional audio applications. Its ability to produce exceptionally clean and natural reproduction of both music and speech, combined with excellent shielding against electromagnetic hum, makes it a top choice for vocalists, podcasters, and streamers.
Who It's For
The Shure SM7B is best suited for professional vocalists, podcasters, and streamers who require high-quality audio capture. It is also ideal for studio recording and close-miking instruments. However, it may not be the best fit for those on a tight budget due to the additional cost of a good preamp or an inline preamp like Cloudlifter for optimal performance.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Smooth, flat, wide-range frequency response for clean and natural sound reproduction | ❌ Requires a good preamp or an inline preamp like Cloudlifter for optimal performance, which is an additional cost |
| ✅ Excellent shielding against electromagnetic hum from computer monitors and other studio equipment | ❌ Heavier and bulkier compared to some other microphones |
| ✅ Versatile use for studio recording, podcasting, streaming, and close-miking instruments | ❌ Higher price point compared to entry-level microphones |
KRK Rokit 5 G4: Best Studio Monitors for Accurate Sound
KRK Rokit 5 G4 5 Inches Powered Studio Monitor (Renewed) -- $180.32(Amazon)
KRK Rokit 5 G4 5" Studio Monitor White Noise -- $189(Guitar Center)
Why We Picked It
The KRK Rokit 5 G4 studio monitors are a top choice for those seeking professional sound quality and accuracy in their audio projects. With DSP-driven room tuning, these monitors ensure optimal sound performance in any environment. The Kevlar-made woofer and tweeter provide durability and consistent sound quality, making them a reliable option for mixing and mastering.
Who It's For
These studio monitors are ideal for music producers, audio engineers, and home studio enthusiasts who require precise sound reproduction for mixing and mastering. However, they might not be the best fit for users who prefer a bass-heavy sound, as they may need to add a subwoofer for a fuller audio experience.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Professional-grade sound quality | ❌ Might not have enough bass for some users |
| ✅ DSP-driven room tuning for optimal performance | ❌ Requires a subwoofer for a fuller sound |
| ✅ Durable Kevlar woofer and tweeter | ❌ Higher price point compared to some competitors |
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen): Best USB Audio Interface for Beginners and Intermediate Users
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio 3rd Gen - USB Audio Interface -- $199.99(eBay)
Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface for Recording, Songwriting, Str... -- $164.14(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) is a highly popular USB audio interface that offers an excellent balance of affordability, sound quality, and ease of use. It's perfect for beginners and intermediate users looking to achieve studio-quality recordings without breaking the bank. The device features high-performing mic preamps, low-noise balanced outputs, and high-performance converters, making it a versatile tool for recording, songwriting, streaming, and podcasting.
Who It's For
The Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) is ideal for musicians, podcasters, and content creators who are just starting out or have intermediate experience. It's perfect for those who need a reliable, high-quality audio interface with two inputs and outputs. However, users who require more inputs and outputs for larger recording setups might find its capabilities limiting and may need to consider more advanced options.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ High-performing mic preamps with switchable Air mode for extra clarity | ❌ Limited to two inputs and outputs, which may not be sufficient for advanced users |
| ✅ Low-noise balanced outputs for crystal clear audio playback | ❌ Some users might outgrow its capabilities as their recording needs expand |
| ✅ High-performance converters for studio-quality recordings up to 24-bit/192kHz | ❌ Requires a USB connection, which might not be ideal for all setups |
AKG K371: Best for Detailed, Balanced Sound and Comfort
AKG Pro Audio K371 Over-Ear, Closed-Back, Foldable Studio Headphones (Re... -- $139.99(Amazon)
AKG Podcaster Essentials | Lyra USB Microphone & K371 Headphones -- $285(AKG)
Why We Picked It
The AKG K371 closed-back studio headphones are designed to deliver detailed, balanced sound with superior comfort, making them ideal for long mixing sessions. They feature titanium-coated 50mm transducers and pure OFC voice coils, ensuring accurate and neutral sound reproduction. The ergonomic design and superior isolation make them a great choice for professional audio work.
Who It's For
These headphones are best suited for audio professionals, musicians, and podcasters who require accurate sound reproduction and comfort for extended use. They may not be the best choice for those seeking extremely robust build quality, as they might not be as durable as some other high-end studio headphones.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Accurate, neutral sound with a wide frequency response (5 Hz to 40 kHz) | ❌ Build quality might not be as robust as some other high-end studio headphones |
| ✅ Ergonomic fit with calibrated headbands and slow-retention oval foam pads | ❌ Renewed product status may concern some buyers |
| ✅ Superior isolation with closed-back, oval over-ear design | ❌ Limited to 32-ohm impedance, which may not suit all audio sources |
Audio-Technica AT2020: Best Affordable Condenser Microphone for Vocals and Instruments
Audio Technica AT2020 Condenser Studio Microphone Bundle with Pop Filter... -- $108.9(Amazon)
Audio-Technica At2020 Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone -- $99(Reverb)
Why We Picked It
The Audio-Technica AT2020 is an affordable condenser microphone that offers a wide dynamic range and high SPL handling, making it an excellent choice for capturing vocals and instruments with exceptional clarity. Its comprehensive bundle includes essential accessories like a pop filter and XLR cable, providing a complete solution for both project and professional studio environments.
Who It's For
This microphone is ideal for musicians, podcasters, and home studio enthusiasts who need a high-quality recording solution without breaking the bank. However, it may not be the best choice for those who do not have a treated room, as its sensitivity to background noise can affect recording quality.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Wide dynamic range and high SPL handling | ❌ Sensitive to background noise |
| ✅ Comprehensive bundle with pop filter and XLR cable | ❌ Requires a treated room for best results |
| ✅ Exceptional clarity for vocals and instruments | ❌ Not ideal for noisy environments |
PreSonus Eris E3.5: Best Budget Studio Monitors for Beginners
Eris E3.5-3.5" Near Field Studio Monitors (Pair) – Powered Desktop Speak... -- $99.99(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
The PreSonus Eris E3.5 studio monitors are an excellent choice for those seeking budget-friendly, high-quality sound. These monitors deliver clear and accurate audio, making them ideal for beginners in music production, gaming, or multimedia use. With features like acoustic tuning controls, a variety of input options, and included music production software worth over $1000, they offer exceptional value for their price.
Who It's For
The PreSonus Eris E3.5 is perfect for beginners in music production, gamers, and multimedia enthusiasts who need clear and accurate sound in a compact form. However, they might not be the best choice for users who require strong low-end frequencies or need speakers that can fill larger rooms with sound.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Clear and accurate sound quality | ❌ Low-end frequencies might be lacking for some users |
| ✅ Includes Studio One Prime and Studio Magic plug-in suite | ❌ May not be loud enough for larger rooms |
| ✅ Acoustic tuning controls for pristine sound in any room | ❌ Newer model available (Gen 2, 2024) |
Steinberg Cubase Pro: Best DAW for Professional Music Production
Steinberg Cubase Pro 12.0.70 Licensed for life for Windows -- $19.99(Alole)
Steinberg Cubase Pro Recording Pack EU / UR816 & Cubase Pro - USB Audio ... -- $664(Music Store US)
Steinberg Cubase Pro 10.5 -- $562.02(Amazon)
Why We Picked It
Steinberg Cubase Pro is a top-tier Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) that has been refined over decades to offer an advanced and intuitive audio production environment. It is renowned for its outstanding audio quality, flexible handling, and state-of-the-art audio and MIDI tools, making it a go-to choice for professional music producers and musicians.
Who It's For
Best suited for experienced music producers, sound engineers, and musicians who require a comprehensive and powerful DAW for composing, recording, mixing, and editing music. Beginners might find the learning curve steep, but those willing to invest the time will find it immensely rewarding.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Outstanding audio quality | ❌ Steeper learning curve for beginners |
| ✅ Flexible handling and intuitive workflows | ❌ Higher price point for full-featured versions |
| ✅ Comprehensive set of VST instruments and effects | ❌ Requires a powerful computer for optimal performance |
Arturia MiniLab MkII: Best Portable MIDI Controller for On-the-Go Producers
Arturia MiniLab MkII Mini Hybrid Keyboard Controller Deep Black -- $79(Guitar Center)
Why We Picked It
The Arturia MiniLab MkII is a versatile and portable MIDI controller that offers excellent software integration, making it an ideal choice for music producers who are always on the move. Its compact design and powerful features provide a great balance between functionality and portability, ensuring that you can create music wherever you go.
Who It's For
This MIDI controller is perfect for music producers, DJs, and musicians who need a portable and reliable tool for creating and performing music. However, it might not be the best fit for those who prefer full-sized keys for extended playing sessions.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| ✅ Compact and portable design | ❌ Mini keys may be too small for some users |
| ✅ Excellent software integration | ❌ Limited to 25 keys |
| ✅ Affordable price | ❌ No standalone operation (requires a computer) |
Excited to help you set up your dream home studio! Have more questions or need recommendations? I'm here to assist. Let's make your music production dreams a reality!