Minimum Equipment List
While it might be exciting to have all of the equipment in the picture above, if you're just starting out, you can get great results with just the bare minimum.
To get the most from the courses, you should have access to the tools and software listed below. You don't need the exact items shown. But at minimum, you will need the following:
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Mac or PC
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Digital Audio Workstation software
(Pro Tools, Logic Pro X, Reaper, etc.) -
An audio interface
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Two microphones
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Powered monitor speakers
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Good headphones
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A microphone stand
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Good quality audio cables
Although not strictly required, an analog mixer with actual faders and buses would be great.
Audio Interface
An interface similar to the Focusrite Scarlet 2i2 will get you started on the right foot and will be a useful tool for many years.
Focusrite Scarlet 2i2 at Sweetwater
Headphones
To check your work, or to prevent your significant other from complaining about hearing the same piece of music played over and over again, good quality headphones are a must have.
The Sony MDR-7506 headphones are inexpensive and can be found in many high-end recording facilities.
WARNING: Get headphones designed for audio production, not headphones designed for impressive bass.
Two microphones
Having just a single, good quality microphone will get you through. But, to get the most from these courses, having two similar (preferably matched) microphones will allow you to try various stereo mic techniques.
A pair of small diaphragm condenser microphones, like the Rode M5 pair, is a great way to start.
Microphone Stand
Any good quality microphone stand will work. You don't need to get fancy. But... if you have expensive mics, do you trust a cheap stand to hold them and not fall over?
On-Stage Mic Stand at Sweetwater
Powered Monitor Speakers
Recording great sound is only half the battle, you also need to be able to accurately hear what you've recorded. There are many suitable monitors available for a reasonable price, but a pair of the Yamaha HS-5 monitors will be perfect.
Optional Analog Mixer
While not absolutely necessary, an analog mixer that has most of the basic features found in a large professional console, will really help. It will enable you to better understand how to manage the flow of the various audio signals, buses, aux sends, EQ, and all the rest.
The onsite courses will utilize mixers such as the Yamaha MG12.
Yamaha MG12 Mixer at Sweetwater