Setting Up a Complete Home Studio for Under $1,000

Setting up a home studio on a budget doesn't mean you have to compromise on quality. With careful selection, you can get professional-grade equipment that fits your needs and stays within your budget. Here's a comprehensive guide to setting up a home studio with top brands and types of equipment, all for under $1,000.

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1. Microphone

Audio-Technica AT2020 - $99

The AT2020 is ideal for all types of content creators, from musicians and podcasters to streamers. This side-address condenser mic handles high SPLs effortlessly. With a cardioid polar pattern, this quality mic delivers unmatched sound and reliable performance without any unwanted background noise.

Perfect Mic for Creators

Sound source isolation

2. Audio Interface

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen) - $159.99

The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is one of the most popular audio interfaces for home studios. It offers high-quality preamps, a clean signal path, and easy connectivity for your microphones and instruments.

• Pro performance with great pre-amps - Achieve a brighter recording thanks to the high performing mic pre-amps of the Scarlett 3rd Gen. A switchable Air mode will add extra clarity to your acoustic instruments when recording with your 2i2 3rd Gen.
• Get the perfect guitar and vocal take with - With two high-headroom instrument inputs to plug in your guitar or bass so that they shine through. Capture your voice and instruments without any unwanted clipping or distortion thanks to our Gain Halos.

3. Studio Monitors

PreSonus Eris E3.5 - $99.95

PreSonus Eris E3.5 studio monitors deliver clear and accurate sound, which is crucial for mixing and mastering your tracks. They are compact and perfect for smaller studio spaces.

• HONEST. Eris 3.5 near field studio monitors deliver studio-quality, accurate sound perfect for music production, hi-fi audio listening, or multimedia reference.
• EXPRESSIVE. Clear, accurate audio with a big low end - Eris 3.5's woven-composite woofers' weave and nature result in tight bass that you can feel, as well as cleaner overall sound.
• POWERFUL. Compact speakers that pack a punch - 50 Watts of Class AB dual amplification (25W per side) provide all the volume and loudness you want without sacrificing tonal balance or audio clarity.

4. Headphones

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x - $149

The ATH-M50x provides an unmatched experience for those looking for studio quality headphones at an affordable cost. The ATH-M50x delivers accurate audio and deep bass response, making the portable closed-back headphones perfect for long sessions in the recording studio and on the go.

• Critically acclaimed sonic performance praised by top audio engineers and pro audio reviewers
• Proprietary 45 millimeter large aperture drivers with rare earth magnets and copper clad aluminum wire voice coils
• Exceptional clarity throughout an extended frequency range with deep accurate bass response
• Circumaural design contours around the ears for excellent sound isolation in loud environments

• 90 degree swiveling earcups for easy one ear monitoring and professional grade earpad and headband material delivers more durability and comfort

5. MIDI Keyboard

Akai Professional MPK Mini MK3 - $119

The Akai MPK Mini MK3 is a compact MIDI keyboard controller with 25 keys, eight backlit pads, and endless knobs, providing a versatile tool for creating music and controlling your DAW.

• Music Production and Beat Maker Essential - USB powered MIDI controller with 25 mini MIDI keyboard velocity-sensitive keys for studio production, virtual synthesizer control and beat production
• Total Control of Your Production - Innovative 4-way thumbstick for dynamic pitch and modulation control, plus a built-in arpeggiator with adjustable resolution, range and modes
• The MPC Experience - 8 backlit velocity-sensitive MPC-Style MIDI beat pads with Note Repeat and Full Level for programming drums, triggering samples and controlling virtual synthesizer/DAW controls
• Complete Command of your Virtual Instruments and FX - 8 360-degree knobs assign to all your music studio plugins for mixing, tweaking synth controls and more
• 1500 plus Sounds and Everything You Need for Pro Production - Complete Music Production Starter Kit including MPC Beats, 6 Virtual Instruments and 2GB of sound content

6. Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) Software

FL Studio Producer Edition - $99

FL Studio Producer Edition is a complete software music production environment or Digital Audio Workstation (DAW). It's known for its user-friendly interface and extensive features, making it suitable for all levels of music producers. It offers everything you need for composing, arranging, recording, editing, mixing, and mastering professional-quality music.

7. Microphone Stand

On-Stage MS7701B - $25.95

A sturdy and adjustable microphone stand is essential for any studio setup. The On-Stage MS7701B is durable and versatile, making it an excellent choice for various recording situations.

8. Pop Filter

Aokeo Professional Microphone Pop Filter - $14.99

A pop filter helps to reduce plosive sounds and improve the clarity of your recordings. The Aokeo pop filter is an affordable and effective solution.

9. Acoustic Treatment

Auralex Acoustics Studiofoam Panels (12-pack) - $79.99

Proper acoustic treatment is vital for achieving accurate sound in your studio. The Auralex Studiofoam Panels are easy to install and significantly improve your room's acoustics.

10. Cables

Hosa XLR-110 XLR Cable (10 feet) - $10.45 each (x2 = $20.90)

High-quality cables ensure a clean signal path and reliable connections. Hosa XLR cables are durable and provide excellent audio fidelity.