12/02/2026
Nick Wood
Audio Engineer & Music Producer
One of the questions that often crops up is “ I want to build a recording studio at home, where do I start”? Well, having started on a home recording setup back in the 80’s it’s easy to see how things have moved on since then. I still have numerous cassette tapes that were part of my first ‘multitracking’ experience when I used to own a Portastudio. Even though things have changed today the principles are still the same. The only difference being it is good to be computer savvy today. Things have moved on so much that it is entirely possible to produce and record a hit record from the comfort of your own bedroom (think Billie Eilish). Pretty much, the equipment you can have at home can rival, or even better some well known professional recording studio’s. So, that being said, recording quality at home isn’t a barrier anymore depending, of course, on your budget. So, what are the limitations?
Know Your Limits!
Whether you record on a tape machine, phone or a computer the big question is ‘how can I make it sound good’? If you are a singer songwriter who just wants to jot ideas down to remember later then the quality doesn’t matter as much. But, if you are looking to produce that great No1 hit…then that’s another matter! So what is required to make great recordings?
- Technical Knowledge - The basics of computing, knowledge of music equipment interconnection, ability to trouble shoot.
- Audio Engineering Knowledge - you will need at least a very basic knowledge of recording techniques such as recording levels, microphone techniques, knowledge of EQ, compression and other audio tools.
- A Quiet Space - You don’t want any noise on your fantastic performances now do you?
- The Knowledge Of Your Own Limitations - Of course, unless you don’t have neighbours or main roads near and you are lucky enough to have a large recording room you can’t record loud amplifiers or drums.
If you are lucky enough to have all four of the above then you have a good grounding to go ahead and build your dream studio at home. If you just want to notepad your songs then you need to have at least a modicum of technical ability to get you by. Either way, look out for the next part in this series Recording Gear Basics.
