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You need a computer - This will probably be your biggest investment when you start making music at home. Not only do you need a computer, but you need a powerful one.

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Desktop vs Laptop - This will depend on your needs. Portability is key here. If you'll most likely to be making music at home, then a desktop will do. But if making music on the move is a priority, then a laptop is the obvious choice.

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Desktop - A powerful desktop is often cheaper than a laptop and has more upgrading potential. A large monitor is also a big plus.

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Laptop - Nowadays however, you can also get powerful enough laptops at a reasonable price.

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Mac or PC? - Whether you go with a Mac or a PC is down to personal preference. Most music production software works well on both platforms, although Mac has a few exclusive ones (i.e. Logic Pro and GarageBand).

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DAW - To record music at home you'll need a type of software called Digital Audio Workstation, commonly known as DAW.

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DAW - Popular DAWs include Pro Tools, Reaper, Logic Pro, Cubase, Studio One, Ableton Live, Reason, and FL Studio, among others.

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Which DAW? - It will depend on your needs, but pick one and stick to it, as it might take some time for you to learn how to use it. There are free limited versions of some popular DAWs online if you want to try it out before you buy the full version.

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What to look for in a computer - Some DAWs are more demanding than others. You should look at the minimum requirements for the one you intend to use. But in general, you'll need a powerful machine.

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What to look for in a computer - Basic requirements include an Intel core i7 or i5 processor, an SSD drive, and over 8G RAM.

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Work desk - You will need a workstation. Ideally, it's spacious enough to have all your recording gear and to allow you to work comfortably. But in practical terms, any table will be enough to get you started.

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Chair - You'll likely spend a few hours sitting while working on your songs, so a nice comfy chair goes a long way.

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Audio interface - If you want to record vocals or other instruments such as guitars, you'll need a good audio interface to connect the instrument(s) or microphone(s) to your computer.

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Microphone - If you're going to record vocals, then a condenser microphone is the obvious choice.

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Pop filter - A pop filter is used in front of the microphone to eliminate popping sounds caused by moving air when you sing or talk.

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Pop filter - The letters 'P' and 'B' cause a spike in the sound and distort it when a pop filter is not used. These sounds are called plosives.

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XLR microphone cable - Although some microphones can be plugged into your computer via USB, an XLR cable will send a better, cleaner signal. Just plug it into your audio interface and you're set.

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Microphone stand - You will need a microphone stand if you're going to record vocals or an instrument with a microphone (e.g. acoustic guitar).

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Headphones - You will need headphones. If you are just going to buy one pair, get a closed-back option.

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Headphones - However if you're going to mix your songs using headphones, then open-back headphones could be a good extra addition to your home studio.

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Studio monitors - Invest in a couple of studio monitors. The difference between these and regular speakers is immense.

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Studio monitors - You will want to listen to your music clearly, especially when you're mixing and mastering your songs.

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Instrument cables - You'll need these to plug in instruments to your audio interface.

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Guitars - While instruments such as pianos and strings can be relatively well emulated digitally, guitars are usually not. If you want to add guitar sounds to your song, the best option is to play one (or have someone else do it for you).

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MIDI controller - A MIDI controller will allow you to play a variety of instruments virtually, from drums to piano. Basic MIDI controllers are not expensive and can add a lot to your music.

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Acoustic foam - Foam is a relatively cheap and accessible way to improve the acoustics of your room. Unless you're rehearsing with a full band, you can simply place a few panels on the walls.

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Carpet - A simple carpet will make the room acoustics better. Plus, your downstairs neighbors will thank you.

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Corner bass traps - If you want to take acoustic treatment to the next level, then you can add corner bass traps. These pieces of acoustic foam absorb a number of frequencies as they hit the corners of the room.

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Music -

Now you can get down to making some music!

You might also like: Musical instruments you can easily learn and play

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