My "Studio"

Whenever I tell people I'm in my studio (which is never) I actually mean my apartment. Because my "studio" isn't much more than my laptop. I won't pretend like I'm an expert at this recording stuff, but I do what I can, because I love making music.

So if there are any curious people out there, who would also like to start recording their own songs, here is a list of what is basically necessary. The disclaimer being that, I am only one person. I only have to record acoustic guitar and vocals. So clearly, this set-up probably won't work for bands, (or even duos.)

1. My laptop. - I have a Macbook circa 2007, but have since updated it (i.e. made my friend update) to OS 5.

2. Audio Interface - Any audio interface will do, but I have a Presonus Firestudio Mobile, because it is small, reliable, and Presonus has a good reputation. (The audio interface is what gets the sound from your microphones into your computer. And conversely, what sends that sound back out of your computer to your fancy monitors.)

3. Monitors (AKA speakers) - I have powered KRK Rokit 5's. I'm not sure I love them, but beggars can't be choosers.

4. Headphones - I have Sony MDR-V600, but I have since blown them out, and need to replace them. Also the plastic on the headphones will wear off after about two years. But I will say, they are super comfortable! Great for late night mixing.

5. Microphones - Well, the subject of microphones is so dense, and actually, I don't have a lot of experience or know-how. I recorded the Your Car Ep and Hesitation using only 2 CAD CM217. These are really cheap, and are meant to record overheads on drum kits. I did my best to make them work with my guitar and vocal. For the next album, I am probably just going to stick with my Shure SM58, and my MXL 990 Large condenser. Again, it's a cheap microphone, but I will have to make it work!

6. Cables - You need at least 2 XLR cables for your microphones. You also need at least 2 balanced TRS cables to connect your monitors to your audio interface. (MAke sure they are balanced. These are not just standard instrument cables.)

7. Microphone stands - Seems obvious, but this is a very important part of your studio! Don't get the cheapest ones! You don't want to have to readjust mid-recording. Spend 100 bucks and get 2 stands that will tough it out through the years.

8. Recording Software - Again, this is a much debated topic. I don't even know everything that is available out there. I have no idea what is popular right now. I use StudioOne because it came with my FireStudio Mobile. You could use garageband too, or the free software Audacity.

Hope that was helpful. If you are curious about this sort of thing, you should just go for it. It's an expensive hobby, sure. But so is skiing, or jet skiing, for that matter. There's really never been a better time to start your own studio!

Get Inspired! - Book Review

I like reading books! I like reading books about all kinds of things, but especially I like reading about creating! So it is safe to say I have read lots of books about music, songwriting, recording, mixing, mastering, singing, etc. I decided I would give a quick review of the books I have acquired for anyone out there who might be interested. Because let's be honest, not every book you pick up is worth the $15-$20 it might cost you.


This week's theme will simply be inspiration. Two years ago, when I decided to start playing music again, I was real short on confidence. These three books really made me feel like, "Hey, if they can do it, so can I!!!!"


The Indie Band Survival Guide - This is geared towards bands, and so has a lot of extra legal and management stuff added, as bands tend to fight over the paycheck, I guess. But even if you are a lonely singer-songwriter like moi, you can still find lots of helpful information. I will say, the scope of this book is wide, and they seem to want to cover everything under the musical sun, so be prepared to be a bit overwhelmed. Oh, and I don't recommend looking at this band's website until after you've finished the book. I won't say why, but just trust me.

The Girl's Guide to Rocking - I'm pretty sure that I'm roughly 15 years older than this book's target audience, but let's be honest, when you want to start a creative journey, you're gonna feel like a pimply, awkward thirteen year old, no matter what. Boys can read this, too. Just tell the cashier it's for your niece. This book is great for absolute beginners. It has loads of information on the different instruments, guitar pedals, how to find band mates, recording, practicing, and playing live. To be honest, the most inspiring thing about this book, are the famous-rock-lady quotes, which are sprinkled throughout. Plus, the book is written by musician and journalist, Jessica Hopper.

I Don't Need a Record Deal! - This is another extensive book, that gives lots of information, but doesn't quite overwhelm you like the Indie Band Survival Guide. I have to say, I kinda glossed over the musician profiles in this one, maybe because they were mostly acts I had never heard of before. Nevertheless, this book gave me the final push to take my dream seriously, and to realize that I don't need a record deal. I don't need a studio. I don't even need a band or an engineer. The only thing I need is me and some good songs and trust in myself. Yes, all the self-empowerment really did come after reading this book. If I remember correctly, it is a bit outdated, in that it's a bit behind current technology. But that just makes the reader realize, if it was this easy before, it's like laughable now!



So, if you want to create music, but you don't know where to start, then check out one of these books. You might find some inspiration, too!