Monday, March 17, 2008

Buying Music Gear for Home Studios

First of all you need to decide what kind of studio you want. There is a pro studio ideal for recording full bands. This kind of studio can deliver CD master recordings. The other is a project studio, which generally supports recording electronic synths, samplers and maybe a few live players when needed. The quality level meets TV and film standards.

Another form of studio is the home MIDI electronica mainly software studio with at least one or two mics. It could also be a demo or a song writing studio with mics or even just a little hobby studio, or just want to make music studio. All the above mentioned options can be accomplished but there are certain things you also need to look into really carefully before buying music gear.

Avoid buying the same feature over and over again on different pieces of music gear. You may only end up otherwise having a number of preamps, samplers and recorders that you cannot use and they are just an additional expenditure.

Do not buy Cubase and Sonar and try to get them to work together. Or get Sound Forge and Sonar, as these applications will not work at all on a Mac. Therefore, it is advisable to be well versed with the music gear before purchasing them.

The recorder you choose be it a multi track, computer sequencer, or MPC 4000 and MV8800 are the most far reaching decision you can make. But, you have to consider that choice carefully. It is advisable to learn one form and master it, and then you can resort considering buying them.

There are stores that offer 30 days return policy on music gear. This can also be a great idea that makes it real easy for you. Get it for trial and when you find it is perfect for you then only you can opt to buy.

Many people face a lot of difficulties with the software they buy because they do not understand or misread the recommended requirements to run the software. Never buy software if you cannot meet the stated requirements.

When buying a music gear try to stick to the companies that are supremely focused on your computer platform, your operating system and in some cases your motherboard and your CPU. Some soundcard drivers may refuse to work well with some chipsets on some motherboards.

Do a thorough research before buying music gear. Ask questions from your dealer or you will end up spending extra for your digital mixer. Therefore, the price of a piece of gear, which is at a lower price, may mean spending another extra dollars to make it work.

Always buy the latest music gear to avoid future expenditure. Buy the cheaper or a secondary music gear now, and then it will be outdated in some years and you will have to buy the new one and this will cause unnecessary expenditure. It is best to wait a year or two after the release and then buy the finished, mature, stable products. Features may look good on paper but may not sound good in music. If you buy cheap music gear you may just end up buying again.

Besides the above mentioned tips of buying music gear, there are other variables you need to look into, like the cost of service, the upgrades, software and many more. Above all, the bottom line is the sound that should be your prime concern. Focus on the sound coming out of the speakers. Great sound never goes out of style.

No comments: