Recording Sound on a Budget? Which Equipments should be Used?

Image Source: Pixabay.com/ Why you can’t do without quality sound? Whether you are recording music for your indie film, a podcast or a music album video, you can’t ignore the sound. Even when working on low-to-no budget productions, you will have to incorporate the best sound possible for the budget, if you want real impact on the audience. Sound captures the soul and essence of a video production and without it, the dish will taste bland and unpalatable. Fortunately, there are some amazing equipment that will fit into your low budget and allow you to create a “complete” recording studio. If you can shell out $400-$500, you will have a more than impressive setup to record a soundtrack. It may or may not be world class but will muster enough attention and fandom to get you plaudits and recognition. Which equipments are your best bets?
  1. Computer- A recording studio would be paralyzed without a computer. Most recordings are controlled using audio interfaces and DAW software that operate on good quality computer operating systems. Although iOS setup is the most recommended (a MacBook Pro is a dream for sound artists!), if you want to keep your budget in check, you could alternatively give Chromebooks from Acer, HP or Samsung a try. However, if you can afford iOS devices like iPads, iPods or iPhones instead, you would get ready access to a suite of apps that help you to record better music and sound.
  2. Digital Audio Workstation tools: DAW tools come in different price range and for professionals with different skillsets and needs. You can use Audacity which works for Windows and iOS operating systems or look at Ableton Live 9 Intro for beginners of Image Line’s FL Studio for more advanced applications.
  3. Audio Interface for Recording: Audio interface software could be a little expensive but will prove to be a necessary addition to your studio. When you are using your computer as a recording center, you will need to connect microphones and other devices which you are using to connect your devices. When transferring the sound, it has to be made compatible with the software you are using for sound mixing and processing and an audio interface can do just that.
  4. Microphone: A Zoom H4n is a great microphone option as it can be setup on a boom extension for recording dialogues. Apart from your in-camera microphones which only help when taking close-ups, a condenser mic and a dynamic mic are necessary. Condenser mics have a better sensitivity and frequency response range. But if budget is a constraint and you aren’t recording dialogues live, you could do away with the more expensive condenser mics and use dynamic mics like USB mics instead. A Rode Podcaster is a great option.
  5. Studio monitors: You will need a good quality headphone and if you can afford, get hold of near field speakers that can be placed close to the speaker (ideal for small studios) and other speakers that you can place close to the origin of the sound. But, the headphone is the bare minimum.
    2 Image Source : Pixabay.com With these basic equipment and your own skills, you can still produce amazing sound that would touch the inner cords of your listener’s heart. Get ready to produce some euphonious music!
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