4) Preamp
The what?? A microphone signal is very low. It requires an amplification stage before it goes through your interface.
A good preamp is imperative to a good sound. Even if you have enough cash to get a high-end mic, I would recommend getting a less expensive mic with a decent preamp.
The average computer interface will have preamps built into them. Depending on your interface those preamps might not be so good.
You’re better with a dedicated external one. Some good choices are the GAP73, UA Solo 610, or Focusrite ISA 1. None of these preamps will blow you away, and I might even say that the 610 and ISA 1 are a bit overpriced — but they get the job done.
5) Interface or Converters
Converters turn your continuous electric signal into a discreet signal that a computer can understand. “Interfaces” are devices that include preamps, converters, monitoring routing – several steps in one. Though there are cheap stand alone converters as well that skip this stuff.
For an interface, I recommend the Apogee Duet or the Mbox 3. These have the best sound overall to my ears. Stand-alone converters tend to be very expensive — however — the Behringer converters are very inexpensive and actually fairly decent (one of the better makes for their general product line).
6) DAW
There are a million DAWs out there. Pro Tools, Logic, Ableton Live, Digital Performer, Nuendo, Cubase, Garage Band, Reaper, Acid, and the list goes on.
All of these things will do the most basic function of getting your voice recorded. The one you choose to work with depends a lot on what you are trying to accomplish and is somewhat outside the scope of this article. Good workflow is important.
7) Monitors
You’re going to need to hear your recording. While recording you will need headphones. Again there’s a lot to choose from, but my pick on the inexpensive side is Sennheiser HD280s. There are many options though.
For loudspeakers, again, lots of options. If you plan to do a significant amount of mixing, your best bet is a pair of Yamaha NS-10s and an Adcom amplifier (like the GFA series). This may be a bit pricey and might not be appropriate for your needs.
A cheaper but decent alternative would be a pair of active loudspeakers like Event 20/20 series. TR-5 through TR-8 all make for a good choice. Yamaha HS series is also fairly good. KRK Rockits are pretty popular, but I personally don’t care for these monitors. I find that while they sound fairly neutral in terms of frequency balance, they don’t provide much detail to the sound.
Assuming you already have a computer – a complete, decent recording setup can be had for under $2,000. If set up properly, this will provide a set up that could allow for perfectly usable vocal recordings on an album or for voice over performance.
The other factor, of course, is your know-how in terms of using your equipment.
Matthew Weiss is the head engineer for Studio E, located in Philadelphia. Recent credits include Ronnie Spector, Uri Caine, Royce Da 5’9” and Philadelphia Slick.
Be sure to visit the Pro Audio Files for more great recording content. To comment or ask questions about this article go here.