How to Build a Recording Studio in Your Home

Music has always been a big part of our lives. Ever since ancient times, and even before, music was a way of communication, an outlet for our emotions, a powerful stimulant to get us going, and so much more. If you’re a big music lover and you’ve decided that you want to try making your own music, welcome, because in this article I’m going to explain to you step by step how to build your very own recording studio at home.

Now, before we begin, it’s important to note that building a recording studio will not be a cheap ordeal. Of course, you don’t have to actually build a separate structure to install your equipment in, but even if you do have some free space that can be used in this way, it’s still going to take quite a bit of money and quite a bit of work to make it all as it should.

It’s also important to note that building a recording studio should come after you’ve already tried making music in a simple way, like in your bedroom, for example, and you’ve noticed you have a passion for it and would like to dive deeper into the waters. Once you’re really sure that this is something that you want and need, it’s time to get to work. 

Here’s how you do it. 

Find the Right Space for It 

As I said before, you’re not going to need to actually build a whole separate structure within your backyard or something, but you’re definitely going to need a free space that’s big enough to hold all the pro audio equipment you’ll need. What I’m trying to say here is that if you want to go all professional about this, your bedroom won’t work.

Take a look at the garage, a garden shed, or your basement and see if these can be used to house your brand new recording studio. Mind you, you’re going to have a bunch of professional audio equipment lying around so the space needs to be both isolated and well-secured, both from outer invasions but also things like the weather, water leaks, or structural damages. 

Once you’ve located your space, it’s time to go ahead and plan everything out. As you are going to need quite a bit of equipment it’s preferable to know exactly what will go before you start the actual work. 

Next up, you’re going to need to soundproof it. If you’re using a basement this will be much easier, but if you’re going for a stand-alone outdoor structure it will take a bit more work. You can pick up proper soundproofing supplies like wall padding, for example, at most stores that deal with construction. 

It would be helpful if you can add a thicker wall and also change any doors and windows with more soundproof versions. 

Get the Right Equipment 

As I said before if you’re planning on going a bit more pro you’re going to need pro audio equipment. Just your laptop won’t do anymore. 

To start off, you’re going to need a powerful computer that will be able to handle and process everything you input. Apple is known to have laptops that are good for such purposes, but you can look into other brands as well and focus on the processor as well as the audio card and storage. 

Then, you’re going to need some quality professional audio software that you’ll use to mix your tracks and put everything in order. There is a variety of software available on the Internet for either a one-time payment or a monthly subscription. 

I’d recommend skipping free or cheap versions as they will most definitely lack in the library department as well as limit what you can do with your audio. This is especially important if you’re planning on recording and producing electronic music. 

Depending on the genre you’re going to need different pro audio gear, so once you decide on a way to go, you’ll get a clearer picture.

Things you’ll most definitely need, no matter what kind of music you’re making are a computer, a couple of microphones, studio monitors, a pair of quality headphones, your digital audio station or software, and any instruments you might end up using. Cables, mic stands, and other miscellaneous items are also necessary. 

Final Touches 

Once you have everything ready and set up it’s time to give your studio a bit of life. After all, nothing will be possible without your creativity and love for music and it’s a known fact that the creative juices flow best when you’re in a space you feel good in. 

You’re going to need a bunch of seats around the place since I’m sure you’re not going to be alone in there all the time and comfort plays quite a huge part in the whole process. 

If the space you picked has windows it might be a good idea to remove them or darken them with foil as outside light may interfere with what’s going on inside. Windows pose a safety risk, too, so it’s really not recommended to have them around your sound equipment.

Finally, adding a few posters and CDs or vinyls of the artists that influence you most is a great idea to keep you reminded of where you’ve started and where you want to go.

These were the very essentials, everything else is up to you.