Home Recording On A Budget (2021)

[@GreatWhiteLionSnake]

So if i heard this right, you got 2 options. 1 buy all the equipment, get frustrsted and guve up OR go to Fluffs house, you play, he engineers.

[@ch3nz3n]

Bundle 1 = "I wish I had a studio" Bundle 2 = "I'll never need more than this right? It's not like I'm starting a studio..." Bundle 3 = "Welcome to my studio."

[@PooNinja]

Bundle 4 = “go to a pro studio” hourly prices may vary… ok maybe bundle 2 was more cost effective but they a rack full of (insert dream gear & knowledge of how to use it) in there!!!

[@rratmaster]

Yeah this guy is whacked out of his mind

[@andremamola810]

Shout out to those old reaper days

[@pedrosilvaproductions]

Still use it still love it. Its so costumizeable

[@czdot]

Well, it's still pretty great in 2021. :-)

[@jonharwood5107]

Hell yeah!

[@RobKingRC]

Love Reaper!!!!

[@lordlemmingman]

For those on a super tight budget, if you get the Focusrite Scarlett solo it also comes with a copy of Ableton Live Lite. (You're restricted to 8 tracks in the lite but that might be all you need, or there are work around) Although it's more expensive than the Behringer interface in the bundle, with the addition of a free DAW I think it's worth it. A free amp sim that Fluff didn't mention is the Emissary by Ignite amps, pretty great for a free plugin. But the second you can get a Neural DSP amp sim, do it. It makes a WORLD of difference

[@raimondskazuss5501]

Great point! My Focusrite came with Addictive drums license among other interesting products.

[@neckcheese1356]

I was totally disappointed with Ableton Live Lite. The DAW is actually really good, but not being able to import your own VSTs made it useless for me, since the included effects aren't the greatest for metal. But yeah, The Scarlet Solo is a great budget interface that I've been using for about a year and a half now. Really easy to use and haven't had any problems recording anything. I was using a combination of Ignite Emissary, ML Sound Lab Stevie T and Amped Roots. All free, and all great. But recently picked up the Neural DSP Gojira, and it is frickin' amazing. Worth every penny.

[@josephsantana3094]

The focusrite solo is a great interface but I think ableton sucks dookie balls. Just hate the way it operates. Tried it for a while and now just got logic and it's way more user friendly.

[@Dave-Rough-Diamond-Dunn]

The Behringer UMC 204HD comes with an OEM version of Waveform 11, which has unlimited tracks (as far as I can tell, I'm currently at 47!).

[@rhythmauthority5314]

@@neckcheese1356 You can't import your own VSTs in live lite? My alesis midi keyboard came with live lite and I've been making metal on it using kontakt and neural DSP amps (and drum samplers). Unless I misunderstood what you meant.

[@jxcn]

This is KZbin done right. Super clear cut, straight to the point, covers all the bases, timestamped, all the goods. Thanks Fluff!

[@richardsp2794]

As someone who started off firmly in the entry level bundle products and have upgraded various bits to the bundle 2 and 3, but stuck with bundle 1 items because they still work for me, I can say this is rock, ROCK solid advice. Great video Fluff. Appreciate the time and effort that has gone into this

[@ZackSeifMusic]

I personally use a setup between level 1 and 2 and get great results. Adam Audio T7V monitors are $500/pair, Focusrite 18i20 interface for $500, AT2020 condenser for voice over work at $99, Beyerdynamic DT770s for $159, Fractal FM3 for $999, and Superior Drummer 2 (was less than $200 back in the day). Works very well for what I do on KZbin and Instagram!

[@darrinsiberia]

Really good headphones. Good IMAC with 32gb RAM. Midi controller. Audio interface. Monitors. Mics / mic stands. Sound proofing. Cables. External HDS. Plug-ins for your DAW.

[@nervoussuffermaker]

I think an important addition to the amp sim section is that the majority of your tone is informed by your Impusle Response rather than the Amp. So if one has troubles to get the sound they want it's better to go through different IR packs first rather than different amp sims plugins (which also will probably be cheaper). Not as important, but more of a suggestion, on top of trying midi basses you try creating bass with synths, one might came across some interesting results.

[@MrCalicious]

It's easy to forget how blessed we are to live in a time with such incredible technology and such a low barrier to entry for music. You can record everything you want to a legitimately pro standard with around $500 investment all in. Cheap computer, interface, and used guitars, K240 headphones, SM57 mic, some cords, and then Reaper and free VSTs. The problem isn't that these budget tools can't do pro quality, but rather that more expensive tools get you to that pro quality level easier and more consistently. I use a bundle II/III style studio, and only went higher budget because I like playing with multiple people at once without latency. If I just record one or two inputs at a time there is virtually no noticeable difference between a recording produced on $500 equipment vs $15,000. The one and only thing I have ever felt the need to go record in a pro studio is drums. Digital drums are great, but just aren't to the level of everything else.

[@BadHorsie2]

For package number 3 you will also need a computer that has thunderbolt for connecting the interface, which would be an added expense either upgrading existing if the specs will support it if not it is new computer time.

[@ESPonMe]

Literally just did this today (my work laptop died anyways so it was a win win) 😂

[@imraanakollo-arenz1449]

Great vid fluff! What also helps is Cakewalk and Tracktion Waveform are free DAWs too. If you get a Behringer UM2 or one of their other interfaces you get Waveform OEM free too which is like an inbetween for the free version and their standard version and works pretty well for an intermediary. Behringer is also working on a free DAW apparently. For Amp Sims there's the Ignite Emissary which comes with an IR loader if you want to help shape your Tones. IRs I don't know much on sadly. Audio Assault also makes pretty inexpensive amp sims such as their Sigma and their stuff regularly goes on sale. MT Power Kit is also a free drum kit you can use until you can move to something else. Bass Midi I don't know much on as I have a bass of my own. Melda production has a free plugin suite to help with your production. So if you're even more strapped for cash, you can look at the above for help.

[@djcook]

such a good video. delivered all i needed to know

[@cpfs936]

AKG K-240's! Cheap, sound great, used by RUSH during Permanent Waves. (Pics in the tour program) I'm on my 2nd pair in 30 years! Can't beat 'em for the price.

[@needsLITHIUM]

For multi-amp sims like BiAS or Helix Native, there is also ToneLib GFX. An older version is available for free, and the new version with a whole bunch of new features is $49. AmpLex from NaLex is another good one. Both of them also work on Windows, Mac, and Linux. You can pull them up in a live VST host like PedalBoard or Carla and just go to town with whatever interface you have.

[@theprowler31]

I'm on Linux Mint and I use Ardour as a DAW (you can use Reaper on Linux too) and Guitarix for effects.

[@jennoscura2381]

Reaper is fantastic. I am a Linux user. So my options are limited. I love that Reaper works on Linux. The stock plugins are great. I just recorded an EDM cover of Beethoven's Turkish March. I mixed on a board and recorded in Reaper. I used the stock compressor and EQ plugins. That Behringer interface is great. I mix on a board and run the output into the interface. I set the output level on the mixer to -6 DB and adjust the levels on the interface to -6 DB in Reaper. It works great. It runs flawlessly on Linux Mint.

[@agirotto1]

About amp sims, especially if you're into higher gain, I cannot suggest Vadim Taranov's amps enough. He has great free ones, lika a Mesa MkIII and an AFD, and great cheap amps, like Plexi and Soldano stuff. Very good. Also, always check out Plugin Alliance stuff. They're pretty cool and are often on sale for great prices.

[@themightymcb7310]

His 5150 is the best free 5150 i've ever heard. It's a one trick pony (set it to 666 and thats it), but man is that one trick really fucking good.

[@PrinceVinceJohn]

Just got here from Glenn's video. You guys synced this up well lol

[@matthewtayloryowieresearch1912]

Ugh, Glenn... the bloke is totally disgusting? F*$k that guy. :-P

[@PrinceVinceJohn]

@@matthewtayloryowieresearch1912 lol He thrives off those vibes

[@genuinefreewilly5706]

Love Glenns take on such issues, lots of wisdom and appropriate slang

[@enzojacobsen4349]

@@genuinefreewilly5706 Agreed

[@enzojacobsen4349]

@@matthewtayloryowieresearch1912 yo what's up bassist

[@winstonsmith8021]

Disagree about any old computer working. It may work to track the original sound, but it's going to start freezing up or glitching as soon as you throw a couple of plugins on it.

[@pedrosilvaproductions]

100% I used an old core i5 4460S and 8 gigs of ram and after putting 3/4 plugins he started freezing like crazy. After upgrading to a ryzen 3600 and 16gb of ram I never had any further issues However, a way to go around this is to render the track with the effects but its a pain to mix

[@Dave-Rough-Diamond-Dunn]

@@pedrosilvaproductions My laptop has 4 gig ram, so I know what you're talking about. I have been running the guitar tracks through an amp sim, a noise gate, and Nova for high and low pass filters and a bit of compression, then recording them on to another track. Doing this really just gives me what I'd get miking up an amp, so I'm not finding it hard to mix, just tedious because I have a lot of tracks. In some ways I'm glad to be forced into making decisions, it means that the mixing advances at a faster rate. I can still run quite a few plugins with 4 gigs of ram though, if I had only around ten tracks, I'd probably be alright without any messing around.

[@jasonmatthew8650]

Yep, just bought the machine head nail the mix session, my 3 year old quite decent pc couldn’t even play the session with no plug-ins lol . It’s like 180 tracks!

[@asherplatts6253]

Agreed. I would recommend building an Intel NUC with the fastest processer you can get for your budget, and you can get a single stick of 32gig RAM, or double up for 64GHz (which is crazy, but you will never freeze). You can buy a SSD 1TB for cheap these days too, so no moving parts to wear out.

[@thomasstankiewicz9730]

I think he meant any computer that came out in 2021…

[@parkerhatcher224]

I have had SOOOOO many clients, ask me what they’re going to need for some light home recording. I did my best, in regards to suggestions. But I think I’m going to pass this video along from now on. It covers just about everything. I had a client end up buying a bunch of the same equipment as me, which set him back quite a bit. But not everyone can work with that price point. This video is great! Thanks!

[@PrinceVinceJohn]

I have had some bad experiences with some laptops running a Daw. I had to spend some money to get a decent one to run it. The extra space will always help.

[@Dave-Rough-Diamond-Dunn]

I'm having some trouble with running Waveform 11 on my daughter's laptop, mainly because I have so many tracks that I can't run 3 or 4 plugins on each without having poor quality playback or the plugins crashing. So basically I'm making decisions, and recording the tracks again individually with the plugins added, the output of one track being recorded on to a fresh track. So now I'm working with what I'd have had I miked amps up the old-school way, a track with an amp sound, noise gate, high and low filters, and slight compression. I can work from there easily enough, mostly it'll be EQ, and perhaps more compression or an effect or two. You could group the tracks in a bus or submix of course, but you'd lose the ability to treat them individually, you can always group them later if required. Anyway, that's my tip for working with an old laptop that's not really up to the job. :)

[@gatoenfuego8734]

For amp sim I have to highly recommend the TH-U rig libraries. I use them on iOS but they are just as good on PC. The Choptones captures of the 6505, dual rec and friedman BE are INSANELY good. React with amazing dynamics almost like having a physical amp in the room. Just my 2cents.

[@robzilla69]

Great update. I bought my cali audio LP6 monitors because of your previous recommendation. They are everything you say they are. Best monitor for the money!

[@EasyHeat]

Agreed! I went with the LP8s, but then later moved into an apartment. Overkill to say the least. My cousin however, just built a top of the line live drum studio studio with a huge control room to outfit, so he's going to buy the LP6s, let me use those, and use my LP8s in exchange for helping him design his new setup. Regardless? I call it a win!

[@BH-fi1sb]

@@EasyHeat been seeing these monitors alot, is there much of a low end difference between 6 and 8?

[@EasyHeat]

@@BH-fi1sb I have no real hands on... er... ears on time with the 6's. My prior oldly moldy passive Alesis Monitor One MkIIs w/ matching power amp I believe had 6" woofers, and with the separate 150 watt power amp (75 per side)? Were definitely much louder, but they weren't transparent at all, and also rear ported. So I was constantly loosing bass in my mixes because it was building up in nodes behind my desk. The LP8's definitely fixed all that, and being front ported? Absolutely thump. I couldn't imagine needing a sub unless I was mixing Neurofunk, Dub, or some other EDM. They are honestly a tad overkill, and I probably should of went with the LP6s, but I got a killer deal on them that I couldn't pass up. I hope all that helped? LMAO!

[@BH-fi1sb]

@@EasyHeat thanks for the info.👍

[@SomberShroud]

I believe KPH40's as a Reference headphone beats anything under $500 including studio monitors, as I have 2 top of the line audio sources and high end studio monitor (TH900 and TRI Starlight V4 and DT1990) as reference and they are equal in quality to those. I passionately recommend the KPH40's

[@neilomac]

If you're on Windows, the absolute best value in DAWs is Cakewalk by Bandlab. Fully featured and absolutely 100% free. Doesn't come with a ton of plugins or additional sounds, but considering the power on tap with CWBL, it's tough to beat for the price tag of zero.

[@kekkonenhiihti]

Just throwing this out here, as many reviwers/youtubers completely disregard Cakewalk as a DAW. Cakewalk (formerly known also as Sonar) is a free full featured DAW. If you are buiding a demo studio on a budget, I would totally recommend Cakewalk. I feel it's often a missed opportunity to not mention this DAW in these kind of vids. I'm not paid to say this. I just use it and can vouch for it. Though my word doesn't count for anything in this wild world of web.

[@kitten-whisperer]

I just posted a similar comment right before I saw yours. Hardly anyone recommends cakewalk. I use it and love it. It's fully functional and just all around great.

[@Khaotickingdom]

Cakewalk is awesome

[@shaununger8092]

do you have a link? can seem to find the free download version

[@musicmore5169]

Love this one bro ,you have grown so much over the years. You have a SOLID DELIVERY.

[@micahthompson3762]

Thanks. Appreciate you going over the various options.

[@jasonmatthew8650]

If anyone hasn’t tried the Fortin Nameless from neural dsp , download the demo now! That one, their slo 100 sim for leads and dark glass for bass, changed my life!

[@InGovWeMistrust]

Mac user, highly recommend logic. It’s basically just garage band with more detail and features. Use garage band first and get used to it and by the time you’re good enough at using garage band you can save up the $199 to get full Logic.

[@nisterror]

Fluff, I opened my daw the other day and played with your free amp sim, and I got to tell you, its my favorite plug-in. Sounds killer and easy to set up! You da man

[@grizz6505]

My setup: Dell PC with 8 gigs of ram and 250 gig hard-drive. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2nd Gen Cubase SX trial version from 2003 I think. Looking into Reaper. EZDrummer 2 with metal machine pack. Logitech computer speakers. Looking into Presonus Eris E3.5.

[@davidsix8907]

I just got the GGD One Kit Wonder (Fusion Drums) For like $60? Great sounding kit.

[@SomberShroud]

The HD 280 Pro's are more for more neutral analytical sound but I'd also recommend the AKG 361 for a more balanced and energetic sound, also HD800S are NOT Studio Monitor Headphones, they don't measure flat, color the music with exaggerated soundstage and can only be used as a Reference headphone however you don't need to spend $1000 anymore to get a endgame sound signature. KPH40 (which I passionately recommend) are THE reference Headphones I use in my setup that could legitimately be your last headphone. (I've spent $7000+ on audio gear and use KPH40's as my daily driver)

[@blendernoob64]

I started recording with FL studio, and a multi effects vox pedal into my Presonus Audiobox iTwo, the interface I still use today. You don’t need to spend a boat load of cash to begin recording! Also Fluff omitted the Lepou amp sims which in my opinion rival the premium stuff like STL tones and Bias Fx, and they are all free! I especially love their Marshall clone Hybrit and the Lecto, a rectifier clone.

[@EasyHeat]

The Lepou sims are freaking amazing, although their official site seems to have vanished from what I've gathered? I've currently been messing around with the freeware NaLex sims. Their "PowerBox" power amp sim seems to be inspired by the old TubeWorks MossVale solid state power amps of yore (one of my all time favs), and using it seems to seriously beef up every amp sim I've signal chained it with! They also have killer Recto, Marshall, and other pre amps sims to boot! I'd also HIGHLY recommend Audiority. Their free L12X sim of the Marshall Lead 12 solid state mini head is freaking brilliant! I've gotten soo many Badmotorfinger style tones out of that thing, by using other pedal sims with it, that it's literally been recently blowing my mind! Pairs exceptionally great with my Squier baritone and "G" style down tuned guitars. I'd seriously go check them out if you haven't already! Cheers!

[@mattsyp]

I've gotten most of my plugins on sale. Neural dsp and ggd do like 50% off a few times a year. Black Friday sales are awesome for this kind of thing.

[@reverendg5937]

Always there when I need you. Thank You Mighty Beard of Tone!!!

[@dylanpaterson7612]

MT Power Drum Kit is free and sounds pretty good

[@neckcheese1356]

Yeah, I've been using it for a while now and have been pleased with the sound. Wish it had some nice double bass grooves in there, but hey, it's free.

[@uktmaxx]

i had Glenn at MSG convinced that Bias Amp 2 was a mic'd amp and cab, asking what was my signal path when he did a merciless mix thing a while back...

[@lordberly]

Are you record it straight thru audio interface? Im curious

[@darkphotographer]

yep ther is also a 8chanel berhiger than cost 200 , will like to se a comparison bitween that one the focusite and the apolo , to see realy what you get at the end if you pay 200 1000 or 3000 on audio interface , ihave the 404 from berhiger sound grate and has 4 chanels

[@brostoevsky22]

The DAW Ardour wasn't mentioned. It's totally free. Also if you're a Linux user, you'll need either Ardour or Reaper and a Behringer interface with any combination of the other gear listed. You really only need to carefully choose your DAW and interface due to compatibility. Surprisingly, recording can be done on the Penguin and fairly easily. There are really only a couple of limiting factors, that aren't a deal breaker for your average garage band member/bedroom guitarist.

[@BLOOBADGA69]

Helpful video, I am that budget studio guy, and I’ve got so used to Reaper, don’t think I’d want to change now, I also have all the toontrack stuff for drums and bass, neural dsp, ml sound lab, best plugs in I have are the isotope and fab filter stuff

[@parkerhatcher224]

I wanted to quickly suggest the Audio Technica 40/50 as an awesome alternative to the 103. Fantastic mic. I tend to use my Neumann TLM 103 on softer female vocals, over the years I noticed it really shines there. But the AT 40/50 is just a PINCH cheaper than the 103, and it has all of the bells and whistles you don’t get with the 103. I’ve also found that it’s versatility is unmatched at that price point. Both mic’s are incredible. But I really dig that 40/50 on all applications. Even the more budget friendly AT Mic’s are great 👍.

[@lightafluident.9950]

That TLM 103 is overrated and sounds thin. The Rode NT1A is much better than the overpriced TLM.

[@lightafluident.9950]

Audio Technica makes great mics.

[@Airtrooper719]

My all time best ampsims ive ever tried (to the point I sold my axe FX 2): 1. STL Tonehub 2. STL AmpHub 3. Neural DSP Nolly

[@omikl]

Extreme budget: 13 year old Dell PC with 4GB RAM and a 1TB HDD Ubuntu Studio 20:04 Reaper for Ubuntu Behringer UMC22 JBL Monitors for US$100

[@aaronmp1705]

Let's not forget that Reaper has a 60 day fully featured free trial and will still let you use the software after that 60 days

[@darrinsiberia]

Is reaper similar to GarageBand.

[@ESPonMe]

@@darrinsiberiano, one of the best. Pro tools though is fire

[@peterwillis4376]

I have started my journey with installing Music computing Naru station and still learning bur grateful ! #blessed

[@fraserlundie9468]

Kurt Ballou roomsound is awesome and it's also somewhat cheap at $89

[@ThePhantomnaut]

Room Sound’s drum kits are a solid middle ground. The kits have a great sound and perfect for those who don’t look to have multiple kits that EZDrummer provides. Oh yeah there apparently is an upcoming update to Kurt’s kit in the works according to his interview with the Recording Studio Rockstars podcast.

[@nobirdsnomasters]

Came to talk about room sound as an option. The Kurt, Blasting Room and Jay bundles are all great and under $100 each!

[@fraserlundie9468]

Plus they run great on the free version of Kontact

[@buaidhnobas1ify]

This video was very helpful and informative. Having Sweetwater involved was the icing on the cake...or amp, however, you like your icing. Great work. Thanks.

[@RobKingRC]

I use Reaper for tracking and mixing and Studio one 5 pro for mastering. Love them both!!!!

[@nickemacio9794]

I’ve been using STLTones for awhile now and, to a trained ear it’s “digital”, but honestly it’s fantastic for guitar sims. I’d love to have lots of wonderful hardware amps such as yourself, but I’m not playing live so much anymore. Lord of great options these days to make quality recordings. Great video.

[@robzilla69]

I agree, Neural DSP sounds more organic to my ears.

[@lowlanderband]

@@robzilla69 I’ve been wondering about those as well. The Nolly seems “in my lane”, but I tend to play higher gain, so I’m wondering if the Tobin Abasi amp would be more suited for me.

[@lowlanderband]

@@robzilla69 also, this is the same guy from the original comment. For some reason it switched to my bands account🤷

[@robzilla69]

@@lowlanderband I have Nolly and the 4 apps it comes with does almost everything I want. I have done the Tosin demo and it's good too. For me the Gojira is the next one I'm buying.

[@robzilla69]

@@lowlanderband I have Nolly and the 4 apps it comes with does almost everything I want. I have don't the Tosin demo and it's good too. For me the Gojira is the next one I'm buying.

[@EasyHeat]

Dude! $1,400 on Headphones?! You ballin' bruh! LMOA! $99 Sony Pro MDR-7506's or even $50 Audio Technica ATH-M20x's are more than optimal for even pro level referencing/tracking needs IMPO. No diss, just my humble 2 cents. You da man Fluff! Luv ya bro! Peace out!

[@Flatnate]

Those are exactly the entry level headphones I was thinking (and have). Fluffs got some bawler monitors too, can’t go wrong with JBL LSR series if you are on a budget.

[@SomberShroud]

well maybe for live recording but I can tell you from my experience down the audiophile rabbit hole that it makes a huge difference from being able to hear hissing in the background and eliminating it but mainly for the out of this world detail you get from hi end audio gear. also you no longer need to spend $1000+ to get an end game sound signature. I passionately recommend the KPH40. KPH40 are the best Headphone you can get under $50 for not only reference Headphones (Neutral Sound Signature) but enjoyment equivalent to endgame audio gear that could legitimately be your last headphone. (I've spent $7000+ on audio gear and I use KPH40's as my daily driver)

[@EasyHeat]

@@SomberShroud Thanks, I'll definitely give the KPH40's a look although closed back over ear designs suit me the best for my needs. To be honest? I've permanently damaged my hearing slightly due to years of playing live with no protection. Below around 60Hz or 6k and above sometimes give me issues, and since one ear seems to have taken more hits that the other? I tend to mostly lean on closed back phones to zoom in on those ranges if and when I can't get on with near field cans. Naturally occurring doppler shifts outdoors for example, tend to mess with my directional perception occasionally. I make the best of it, but yeah. It's a drag sometimes. All I can say is protect your ears kids! ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

[@SomberShroud]

lucky for you there are headphones for people who have lost their hearing including military veterans from the war, to them LCD4's are worth WAY more than the MSRP

[@WolfWired]

That TopoChico fridge resontes with my mexican soul.

[@PaulEubanks]

One of the best kept secrets is the MegaGreen cab IR by ML Sound lab. It's cheap and it's one of the best sounding cab IRs I've ever used, based on one of the best sounding real life cabs I've ever played through. It's based on a Mesa tall cab with greenbacks instead of those awful V30s they come stock with.

[@JoseMartinez-tt1ky]

As always, great info Fluff!

[@Sandman60077]

I definitely recommend the Presonus Audiobox bundle. You get the interface, Studio One DAW, Headphones, and a condenser mic for $200! Really can't beat that!

[@papipanda3884]

a pretty good free midi bass plugin that I use is MT-PowerDrumKit it sounds really great with grooves already packed in with it

[@MusicHyde]

Hi Fluff, I feel you should mention acoustic treatment of the room people work on, cause you could have 4k$ worth of monitors, if the room is not treated it will still sound bad ^^

[@duranjerome]

Presonus all the way, StudioOne Artist is an amazing DAW. The Professional version is even better. I highly recommend the newer C series stuff!

[@Brintofly]

For those who really are in a tight budget, I think this is quite not that friendly. You can easily get an Evo 4 with just 30 bucks more and it is gonna last longer if I'm not wrong. You can also start with Cakewalk as it is completely free. Shure SM58 or Audio technica AT 2020 would be a better mic choice for the long run. As for headphones Audio Technica ATH M20/30/40 or beyerdynamic dt770 pro is also better choice in the long run. For monitors, if you have a small space you can go for the Eris 3.5 too! Now you may say that this is more money than he suggested. Well, no! The hardwares are the thing you need to cling to for a long time. And when you are starting your own set-up, there are quite a few free amp sims which are more than good enough! So if you spend wisely on hardware thinking about the long run, he didn't thought this through. Specially, what he thinks about the "mid-range budget"! I mean he What!!! Anyway, cheers to all!

[@SomberShroud]

I wouldn't recommend any cheap Audio Technica products, HD280 pro's for analytical flat sound and AKG 361's for balanced and energetic sound under $100 and DT770 would be an upgrade to AKG 361, But most of all I passionately recommend the KPH40. KPH40 are the best Headphone you can get under $50 for not only reference Headphones (Neutral Sound Signature) but enjoyment equivalent to endgame audio gear that could legitimately be your last headphone. (I've spent $7000+ on audio gear and I use KPH40's as my daily driver)

[@taylorforester4213]

Thank you so much for this video. I have been trying to get started doing this and had no clue really what exactly to do. I appreciate it.

[@DiamondDuck]

You can basically use Reaper for free forever, as long you keep hitting "Still Evaluating" on the nag screen. But pay the creators anyway, because the longer you use it, you'll realise what an awesome program it is and unbeatable value. No restrictions, no arbitrary tracks limits BS. The low price hurts people's perception of it. Sort of like English as a 2nd language, eventually most people will at least of some sort of Reaper proficiency, as it costs nothing to try, and just about every beginner will start out with it, and you can share projects with anyone. Getting the Lite versions of other DAWs will just lead you into another expensive upgrade path, and what if your friends or bandmates don't use Studio One etc? Reaper stock plugins are great, but not pretty, but will fill in any gaps you have. You know you're going to end up buying much better third party plugins and VSTs as you go along, so what's the point in buying expensive DAWs with all that bundled prettier stock plugins that you're just going to replace?

[@zeusm11]

****Presonus Audiobox I just want to give my personal experience. I am very new to home recording. My local music store only has one interface, it happened to be the presonus. After setting everything up, I kept clipping. My guitar has BKP Aftermath pickups. No matter what I did I couldn’t get anything usable because of the clipping. The only thing that worked was lowering the volume on the guitar. I considered getting a DI box, ended up getting a Scarlett solo and have not had any clipping issues. Have been using it since. I hope this isn’t a normal thing with the audio box, just wanted to give my experience.

[@Ravenclawsc]

I was just starting to research home recording so this video came out at a convenient time. It was lots of help. Thanks 🤘

[@andrewtaylor9681]

What about Garage band for someone one starting out? It doesn't seem to have all the features logic has, but for free software, it seems pretty good.

[@DantesGrill]

Those bundles really escalated quickly. Pretty sure there's a significant level of quality/price between the good and better bundle.

[@orband4342]

I was thinking this too. I feel he skipped midrange. Immediately I'm seeing $400 mics and he didn't even mention a sm58 or a cheaper condenser mic

[@3star2nr]

The kali audio lp6 or jbl 306p monitors are all the monitors you need. Spend the money on high end preamps. Get a manley or Neve or API or Daking. Any of those will dramatically improved your music. Hell if u can have different monitors for different vibe that only helps

[@resington]

UMC202HD is rock solid. Highly recommended over here!

[@edwardsteward124]

Agreed. The UMC204HD is excellent value (an extra $20) considering it gives you MIDI in/out and inserts for outboard gear.

[@BH-fi1sb]

I was looking at the 404hd but ended up getting the Scarlett 8i6 for the two extra ins. and now I wish I went with the 8i8

[@andrewthompson1405]

You know why I like you? Cause you have a topo chico fridge. I can't find topo Chico anywhere lately. Thanks for the tips this is great!!

[@l.like.too.practice.]

Thanks for all great content Great work

[@jus10_lee]

For a DAW, Cakewalk by Bandlab (what used to be Sonar by Cakewalk) is a great option because it’s fully featured and free. For drums, Getgood Drums One Kit Wonder kits are $60 each.

[@NiqScott]

I don't know why anyone would ever look at Reaper when Cakewalk is free. Even if it was the same price, it'd still be a much better option. I own Studio One, and still use Cakewalk.

[@jus10_lee]

@@NiqScott I love the workflow of Cakewalk and the step sequencer view is great for programming midi drums. The stock plugins aren't bad either.

[@joereyna614]

Started with the UMC22, got a Scarlett and hated it.... stuck with Behringer the upgraded to the UMC404HD. Budget sure.. but when local folks hear my mixes thye think I'm using higher end stuff lol

[@shadoecrossland5457]

I use the axe FX to record demos. But I needed an interface just to use a mic. The Behringer interface is a fucking champ. Fluff is the man. Dude just dropped a gold mine of info for people just starting out.

[@sqlb3rn]

No midi input on the behringer umc202hd, so you can forget about using a keyboard or drum machine or electronic drum kit or synthesiser or any other midi device

[@Crazyfistish]

Most modern MIDI devices run over USB, the 5-pin MIDI IN/OUT doesn’t matter that much. Especially if you are just starting out and are primarily a guitarist/bassist.

[@sqlb3rn]

@@Crazyfistish my modern Roland TD-17 drum brain doesn't have USB out. Neither did the drummer's kit in my old band. So yall better double check and make sure, if you get an audio interface without midi input, especially if it is older used gear. And also know your band mates gear if you're going to be recording their stuff.

[@sqlb3rn]

Presonus Audio Box USB 96 has midi and is a better option for 10-20 dollars more.

[@carloquibot]

akai mpk mini is a fairly cheap usb midi keyboard plus it has pads for finger drumming. either way if u can't afford that u can always program midi thru mouse hahaha it's tedious but rewarding in the end. i've been doing it for a long time since i still don't have enough funds to afford a midi keyboard, just wanna lay down some ideas

[@sqlb3rn]

@@carloquibot I guess. I just don't understand why you would get an audio interface without midi, when you could get one with midi instead for basically the same price. programming midi manually with a mouse is a last resort IMO.

[@kitten-whisperer]

Why does no one recommend Cakewalk? It's a huge price of free. It supports 3rd party plug ins. A fully functional daw.

[@whatskraken3886]

cakewalk is free, so use that if you're on a budget. it's actually pretty decent. for a fully featured daw, ableton is my choice (as it is for many other young musicians nowadays)

[@rodreyes8436]

Perfect! I’ve finally decided I wanted to learn how to do this. Great timing. Thank you!

[@dylanpaterson7612]

Home recording on a budget Fluff: Here are some 3 grand each monitors :) lol

[@robzilla69]

The term budget = fixed amount to spend. It is not synonymous with cheap. 3 grand monitors don't fit my budget either 🤣

[@NineInchFailz]

@@robzilla69 the phrase "on a budget" definitely implies cheaper.

[@BH-fi1sb]

same as the "let's try this cheap pedal" though a 5k rig😂

[@counterweight320]

@@robzilla69 Yes, it is synonymous with cheap.

[@robzilla69]

@@counterweight320 nope that's just your opinion, not the definition of the word.

[@DammitCartman]

needed this. thanks for all the great info Fluff!

[@hatman44tapman38]

I liked the budgets you made but the day I can afford 1500 headphones is the day hell freezes over I will have to wait to hear "the Lord" when I'm belly up.

[@LassetUnsSpielen]

thats quite some money, i think I'll stick to my rocksmith cable and fruity loops for now...

[@scb-z9u]

Me too bud

[@hffraser]

Logic on a Mac is kind of the smartest option. Tons of plug-ins out of the box, full features, samples and loops … for 200$ I paid 200$ 8 years ago never had to pay for an upgrade that’s so far 25$ a year and getting cheaper as time go by.

[@PaulEubanks]

I'd spring for Logic Pro and not even bother with Reaper. At $200 it's the best bang for the buck DAW and the built-ins (Logic Drummer, built in sound libraries, amp sims, bass sims, the top-notch plugins, etc....) make this a no-brainer. You buy Reaper and all those recommended plugins and you're at $500+.

[@heyimjoshnicetomeetya]

Adding onto MIDI Drums, Perfect Drums Player is free and it absolutely rips

[@guitarplayer1434]

I feel the need to interject , whilst most computers will be enough, they will not be for the way most record these days and that is with midi drums, midi bass, and multiple midi/ plugin guitar channels. All these items will bring in popping/ clicking as they can become to big for USB ( thunderbolt connectivity will not pop) . Of course all you can afford is the factor, that being said the first upgrades I would want a computer to have . 1. 16 gigs of ram (32 would be better) 2. an SSD hard drive ( you don't need a large drive ,but you can move files off the SSD to a secondary drive ) 3. The quicker the processor the better ( I would not go below an I5 or equivalent 4. a dedicated video/graphics card . If yours is integrated it will steel necessary ram for your video 5. Thunderbolt connectivity All these are not necessary , but I believe if you can gets these things and if not all , these are my order of importance Thunderbolt is of the utmost importance should you get involved in the future with larger projects( especially video)

[@musicdude1540]

Don't listen to this dude. A lot of people run 32 bit daws, they cap out just below 4gb and you can easily do all of that on a 32 bit daw.

[@bop-g7602]

Before I even watch...THANK YOU!

[@Arfonfree]

Computing on a budget... I'm using a 7th gen Intel i3 laptop that I rebuilt for $150 running Linux and using Audacity for $0... Put together with a $50 audio interface and THAT's budget. It might not for everybody, but it's great to learn your way around.

[@wraith1117]

Just to add to the midi drums. The Steven Slate, SSD5.5 has a few free goodies as well.

[@jensli]

You really should get into cameras as well. Its a vital part of recording nowadays when most content producers use youtube, tiktok etc.

[@minisurfbanana]

I have UA twin and i still use my Focusrite Solo 🤷‍♂️

[@Dave-Rough-Diamond-Dunn]

The Behringer UMC 202 comes with a OEM version of Waveform 11, as does the 204. So buying the more expensive interface because it comes with a DAW is not relevant advice. The UMC 202 and the 204 are almost identical interfaces but for the extra $20 aud I thought it worth getting the UMC 204 because it has MIDI sends and returns and also has sends and returns for hardware like guitar pedals. I figured then that I wouldn't be wanting to upgrade to another interface very soon, I'd only want to upgrade to get more input ports. So far it's been great, and because my mixing background is using analogue desks, I don't have the problem of adapting to Waveform after being used to another DAW, which I hear can be a problem for some.

[@peevee605]

Thanks a LOT, dude! Excellent stuff.

[@lightafluident.9950]

Forget Sennheiser HD280s. I used them for 6 years and I got tired of spending 100 bucks a pair. I now mix and record using a 30 dollar pair of headphones from a company called Bopmen. They hold up to the Sennheiser HD280 Pro headphones, and they are solidly built.

[@davidpetersen8909]

Focusrite 2i2 Argon active monitors with subwoofer Ld system DI box Sm57 Mc80 record condenser I use an old office laptop lenovo L460 thinkpad with a dual Core I5 6200u 2,5 ghz CPU and 8 gigs of ram. All I need is a table stand and a buttload of cables and im good to go

[@genuinefreewilly5706]

As the world comes back to normal I hope to write some cirirculum on home recording as its all over the internet. I am an old dude and dont know everything, If guitarists and players want to know anything about recording, take a night school course, check out the multimedia facilities, book some space, ask a technician or librarian that is generally free. Reaper is a steep learning curve but it works for me. Its well written software, faster the lot of them If you put down a really clean track like know how to record, use good cables, no buzzing crap etc, no machine etc... 80 percent of the war is won. Most of the rest is takes, getting used to a click (no so cool, but you have to go there) Great ideas for bundles, if I knew nothing and had coin Id still go low budget, and keep looking for brilliant used kit. Its always out there, good headphones a must, even get some cheap ones consumers will be listening on. One needs to have consumer grade listening gear a few things to hear what the mob will actually hear. I have some ancient Harmon Karden speakers, they were free but almost anything sounds tolerable, some Bowers and Wilkins speakers and car stereos and friends who have all sorts home sound systems. Access to theatre monitors good in large spaces, more is best If one is a Reaper nut you should have the best computer mouse, for me a truly accurate gaming sort of mouse really helps. Of course designate machines for particular purposes Your most valuable machine is for design work. 2nd is your DAW on its exclusive machine. I figure a serious workspace for creation is a boxy computer, with all many of legacy spots you can pluck other machines into, not some super charged laptop that is likely to overheat. If its not expensive kit, its a lot of time if you are serious. As they say time is money but its more that that,

[@bodabodaguy3193]

Bless you man🙏🏽 past me neva would have know time to make music YALL LETS GO

[@collinklein830]

how come GGD didn’t get a mention for midi drums? just out of curiosity

[@josuastangl7140]

exactly, for starting out any GGD OKW pack for 30 bucks on sale is def the way to go

[@diegoambrosio9121]

Hey, Fluff! Will you make a video recording a song with the cheapest gear there is? Mics, amps, axes, cables, mixer, interface, etc.? I wonder if a good mix might compensate for terrible gear. Thanks.

[@castillete75]

Great video !!! Is there a Fluff’s studio Bundle 1,5 ???

[@_Snorri]

One info - with Behringer interfaces you also get quite good DAW, like with PreSonus.

[@ThePunkPatriot]

Your profile photo sucks. Swastikas blow, Nazis are garbage.