Since the beginning of last year, many people have been asking us for recommendations for equipment for studying singing, for online classes and recordings or lives. The list is huge and includes microphones, interfaces, headphones, speakers, etc. So we decided to make this post explaining a little what each equipment is for and giving the best recommendations according to your case so that you invest in the right way.

First, we need you to consider a few things:

• There are equipment of all prices, qualities and “profiles”;
• Everything is more expensive in Brazil because of the dollar, taxes and other hidden costs;
• A piece of equipment alone probably won’t be the solution. For example if you buy the best microphone you can, but all the other equipment it is connected to is bad, you will not enjoy the full potential of your capture.

What would the equipment be used for?

I think the most important function would be for your own singing study. The equipment allows vocal feedback and opens up the possibility of recordings to ensure that you are on the right path and that you are really evolving. To learn more, read the post: https://www.raphaelbegosso.com/014-o-microfone-muda-a-minha-voz/

Equipment also greatly improves the quality of your online singing class. Again another link on our blog for you to learn more: https://www.raphaelbegosso.com/011-tudo-sobre-aulas-de-canto-online/

Finally, better equipment can make it possible for you to record yourself at home and post them on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Spotfy, Apple Music, etc. You can also do lives on these platforms with more quality. And, when it’s safe again, some of this equipment can be used at concerts and events.

So what would be the basic equipment?

1. Computer

Well, first of all, a computer. The solution with a computer is much cheaper and more practical than with purely analog equipment. Considering that most people also already have a computer for work, this recommendation makes the most sense. If you don’t have a computer, look for a model with at least 2 years of up-to-date technology. At least an intel i5 processor, 8gb of ram and an ssd. If you can, opt for a mac, from apple.

2. Microphone

Second, a microphone. Very simply we have 2 main options. Dynamic microphones are more suitable for live situations (to avoid feedback – howling) and for environments without acoustic treatment, on the other hand they are less sensitive and offer a slightly less “satisfactory” return. Another advantage is (exactly because they are less sensitive) that they reject a lot of external noise. Condenser microphones are much more sensitive and “satisfactory”, but suffer more with noisier environments and places without acoustic treatment.

3. Audio interface (sound card)

Interfaces basically transform analog signals from microphones and musical instruments into data for the computer. If you have chosen a USB microphone, the interface is not required.

This type of device, as said, would allow you to record not only your voice or instruments through the microphone, but also musical instruments online. Interfaces are also usually more flexible to configure a better return for your voice.

4. Headphones

Headphones are definitely a better option than speakers. First, because a good speaker would be very expensive and second, because a good part of what we hear from a speaker has to do with the sound of the environment. So in an environment without treated acoustics, even a good speaker will not sound good.

5. Recording software (DAW – Digital Audio Workstation)

This is who will bridge the information on your sound card (or USB microphone) and the files on your computer. It also allows editing and adding effects to the captured material, in addition to mixing and mastering the recordings.

I think everyone has heard of Pro Tools right? He’s a DAW. But nowadays there are many others and mainly there are some free ones.

understanding the profiles

One very important thing when you buy equipment and software is: study the subject and learn how to operate it. See all functions and how to use them.

Therefore, the type of equipment and software you buy has to do with your profile in this area.

People who naturally already like equipment and technology will take better advantage of having lots of equipment/software and more complex equipment/software with more resources. It is better for people who are not so fond of equipment and technology to have simpler devices and software.

And what would your recommendations be in 2021?

We won’t just make computer recommendations in this post. This equipment is updated every year, there are countless models and configurations and you probably already have your preferences because you must use some model to work or study subjects other than music.

The only recommendation remains: if you can, give preference to apple computers. But please do a better search on websites specializing in the subject.

1) Simple, cost-effective profile for recording and studying

Microphone:

Samson C01U PRO ( https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1030777-REG/samson_c01upro_c01u_with_headphone.html )

or

Audio-Technica AT2020+ ( https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/911194-REG/audio_technica_at2020usb_cardioid_condenser_microphone.html )

Headset:

Audio-Technica ATH-M20x ( https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1024219-REG/audio_technica_ath_m20x_closed_back_professional_studio.html )

DAW (free):

Studio One Prime ( https://shop.presonus.com/Studio-One-5-Prime )

2) More interested profile, cost-effective for recording and study

Microphone:

Audio-Technica AT2020 ( https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/356521-REG/Audio_Technica_AT2020_AT2020_Condenser_Microphone.html )

Interface:

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 2×2 USB Audio Interface (3rd Generation) ( https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1479275-REG/focusrite_scarlett_2i2_3g_scarlett_2i2_usb_audio.html )

Headset:

Audio-Technica ATH-M40x ( https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1024221-REG/audio_technica_ath_m40x_closed_back_professional_studio.html?sts=pi-ps&pim=Y )

DAW:

Studio One Artist ( https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1570018-REG/presonus_s15_art_card_studio_one_5_artist.html )

3) Professional profile for recording and studying

Microphone:

Neumann TLM-102 ( https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/656902-REG/Neumann_TLM_102_NICKEL_TLM_102_Large_Diaphragm_Studio.html )

Interface:

Universal Audio Apollo Twin X QUAD ( https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1608865-REG/universal_audio_apltwxq_he_apollo_twin_x_quad.html )

Headset:

Beyerdynamic DT 880 PRO ( https://www.amazon.com/beyerdynamic-880-Over-Ear-Studio-Headphone/dp/B001B1QENY )

DAW:

Logic Pro X ( https://www.apple.com/logic-pro/ )

or

Cubase Pro 11 ( https://new.steinberg.net/cubase/?buy=48158&_ga=2.196756453.838184888.1615744642-1063849418.1615744642 )

4) Profile shows and events

Microphone:

Shure SM 58 ( https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/68463-REG/Shure_SM58_LC_SM58_LC_Cardioid_Dynamic.html )

or

Sennheiser e935 ( https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/291872-REG/Sennheiser_E935_E935_Handheld_Microphone.html )

or

Neumann KMS 105 ( https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/210673-REG/Neumann_KMS_105_MT_KMS105MT_Handheld_Stage.html?sts=pi&pim=Y )

In-Ear Return

Shure SE535 ( https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/695690-REG/Shure_SE535_CL_SE535_Sound_Isolating_In_Ear.html )

As mentioned above, if you fit into the more advanced profiles and opt for a condenser microphone, think about insulation and acoustic treatment in the room where you will study and make your recordings.

With a lot of calm and planning, especially if you already know that music is an important part of your life, start buying this equipment and software. And remember to learn how to use them too.

Happy Singing!