Setting up a home studio doesn't have to cost a fortune. Whether you're a budding musician, content creator, or podcaster, here are 6 must-have items that will get you recording quality audio at home—without draining your bank account. Everything here can be bought for $500 or less. We've included different deals and bundles you can mix and match to best fit your needs!
1. Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio (4th Gen)
The Scarlett Solo Studio (4th Gen) is an ideal starting point for any beginner building a home studio on a budget. It offers professional-grade recording quality in an easy-to-use setup, making it perfect for musicians, podcasters, and creators.
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Features a high-performance audio interface with upgraded mic preamps and Auto Gain for consistent levels
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Delivers studio-quality sound with minimal setup
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USB-C connectivity makes it compatible with most modern devices
Whether you're recording vocals, instruments, or voiceovers, the Scarlett Solo Studio gives you everything you need to capture clean, clear audio without the complexity or cost of a full studio.
PRICE: Currently you can get the Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio for $149.99. There is also a pretty sweet bundle that includes 4 of the items on our list for one price! Talk about even bigger savings. For only $269.99 it includes, the Audio Interface, Condenser Mic, Closed Back Headphones, and Pro Tools Artist!
2. CM25 MkIII Condenser Microphone
A great mic is a must for recording vocals and instruments. The CM25 MkIII is a large-diaphragm condenser mic included in the Scarlett Studio bundle. It offers crisp, detailed audio capture—ideal for singers, podcasters, and acoustic performers.
Designed to pair perfectly with the Scarlett Solo interface, it’s a plug-and-play solution for professional results.
PRICE: You can find the CM25 used online for about $35-$89. Or as we mention included bundled with 4 of the items on our list. For only $269.99 it includes the Audio Interface, Condenser Mic, Closed Back Headphones, and Pro Tools Artist!
Other Alternatives are the Artesia AMC-10. Also a condenser Mic , A bit more pricier but with this bundle you can get the mic, PopFilter, Xlr Cable, and Stand Included. This one starts at $99.99. Check it out here
3. SH-450 Closed-Back Headphones
Clear, isolated monitoring is essential for editing and mixing. The SH-450 headphones are closed-back for minimal sound leakage, offering a clean and accurate listening environment—whether you're recording vocals or mixing your tracks.
They’re durable, comfortable, and included right in the Focusrite bundle.
Price: These are included in the Bundle mentioned before. For only $269.99 it includes, the Audio Interface, Condenser Mic, Closed Back Headphones, and Pro Tools Artist
Alternative : OneOdio Studio Monitor Headphones- Bundled with Auto-tune Access, this is a great deal if you're doing alot of Vocals. Currently Priced on a special promo for $72.50
4. Yamaha HS3B 3.5" Powered Studio Monitors
The Yamaha HS3B studio monitors are a compact version of the iconic HS series, known for their flat response and professional accuracy. Perfect for home studio use, these monitors deliver clean, uncolored sound so you can make better mix decisions.
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3.5” woofer and 0.75” dome tweeter
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Balanced XLR and TRS inputs
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Compact, minimal design that fits any space
A great upgrade from consumer speakers—get clarity that reveals every detail.
5. Software: Pro Tools Artist & Ableton Live Lite
The Scarlett Studio bundle includes access to both Pro Tools Artist and Ableton Live Lite—two of the most popular DAWs (Digital Audio Workstations) in the world.
Whether you're tracking vocals in Pro Tools or building beats in Ableton, this software gives you the tools to compose, record, and mix like a pro—without any extra cost.
6. Microphone Boom Arm
A boom arm keeps your microphone in the perfect position while freeing up desk space. It also reduces vibrations and handling noise.
Ideal for streamers, vocalists, and podcasters
Gives your workspace a clean, professional look
Combine a boom arm with the CM25 mic for ergonomic and high-quality recordings.