In terms of convenience, comfort, and flexibility, it can be very beneficial to set up your own home recording studio. If it’s not done well, though, it can waste your time and money. Here are several factors to consider before making an investment and setting up your own studio.

Budget

How much can you really afford to spend on your home studio, and is this enough to create a proper studio? Are your band mates chipping in (and who retains ownership?), are you fundraising, or are you funding it solely? If you’re just wanting to skip the cost of using a professional studio, you might not come out ahead by creating your own. Weigh the costs carefully.

Space

Find a dedicated space that is big enough for multiple people, their instruments, and the recording equipment. Make sure the space has good acoustics, that there is no echo in the microphone, and that there is as little external noise as possible.

Equipment and Software

Do some research and create a list of essential equipment. Are these items something you possess already, or will you buy them? And, if you buy them, are you buying them used or new? Top-of-the-line or budget-friendly? Don’t limit yourself to mics and cables; consider amps, speakers, headphones, instruments, drum machines, samplers, computers, software, etc.

Choosing the right program or combination of different programs is very important. Cubase, Logic, Ableton, and Avid are popular choice for many in the industry. MIDI controllers give you unprecedented control over recorded music as well as let you create new beats, songs, and loops.

You can think outside the box a bit. For example, an iPad includes the music production software GarageBand, and the device can (with the right applications and in the right hands) replace very costly equipment such as drum machines, samplers, and synthesizers.

Use

Consider how much use your home studio will get. Are you just using this space for yourself or your band? Is it to record one song, one album, or numerous albums? Recording music for other artists can ease the financial burden of creating a studio, but you still have to put in the time.

In the end, a home recording studio can be a great investment when done correctly.

Have you created your own recording studio? What advice do you have for those considering doing the same?

See also: Performing vs Recording: A Musician’s Focus, Music Recording Equipment: The Best Microphones, Music Recording Equipment: Finding the Right Headphones, Music Recording Equipment: Digital Audio Workstations, Recording Music: Essential Equipment for a Home Studio.