Top 13: Best Home Recording Studio Packages (2024)
Choosing the product that best fits your needs is crucial for your success as a professional. Having the right tools for the job can be the difference between success and failure. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the 33 best products in this article. Below are my top 5 choices.
UA Volt 2
The UA Volt 2 Studio Pack wins hands down due to its incredible quality and value. The high end preamps and converters combined with the software with the mic simulations and other plugins will up your studio game to another level.
UA Volt 276
The UA Volt 276 takes things one more level up from the Volt 2 by adding another preamp input. It comes with the same high quality mic and all the software also included in Volt 2. Same incredible converters and preamps.
Scarlett 2i2 Studio
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio package provides incredible value at a very low price. Focusrite is famous for their quality preamps, then they don’t disappoint with the Scarlett 2i2. The package also includes a quality condenser mic.
UA Apollo Twin X
If you’re looking for a package that includes the classic Shure SM7B mic then this is the package for you. Unbelievable sound combined with this amazing audio interface from UA will get your vocals recorded exactly how you want them..
PreSonus AudioBox Studio
If none of the other packages spark your interest, then the PreSonus AudioBox Studio Ultimate Bundle 25th Anniversary Edition is worth a look. It includes everything you ned, even Studio One DAW that will get you going immediately!
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KEY TAKEAWAYS
Best Home Recording Studio Packages: The Basics
Setting up your own home recording studio is easy with the right studio kit.
As a professional composer and producer, I understand the importance of having reliable, high-quality equipment to produce top-notch tracks.
That’s why I’ve carefully handpicked these packages to help you start your musical journey and ensure you get the best value for your money. We’ll cover the most important things to know in a recording package and a wide price range so you can find a studio recording setup that’s right for you.
We won’t go into packages covering a full band setup in this guide as that requires an audio interface with more inputs and multiple microphones, more than what a typical home studio needs.
Music technology is evolving faster than ever, and I’ve made sure that on this list, we’re looking at the latest, best options available on the market today.
Following this guide, you’ll have an industry standard, high quality professional studio at an affordable price in no time, and we’ll cover gear for basic production setups for recording vocals and acoustic instruments with one microphone. It’s a great way to get started in home recording.
Detailed List
Regardless of your experience level or preferred genre – electronic music, pop, rock, metal, acoustic guitar, or live performances – this curated list offers something for everyone.
Here are my top picks for the best products.
1. UA Volt 2 Studio Pack
Tero’s Thoughts
It’s difficult to convey in words how good this package is. UA has really upped their game with the UA Volt 2 Studio Pack. The sound quality and realism of the mic simulations combined with their high end converters and preamps, and their software and hardware experience… it’s simply a winner.
5 / 5
Best For
Beginner and Pro
Price Range
Affordable
Genres Covered
Any genre!
Additional Features
Mic & Preamp Simulations
The UA Volt 2 Studio Pack is a fantastic option for those seeking a high-quality audio interface and a professional-grade microphone. The Universal Audio Volt 2 audio interface provides two XLR inputs, ensuring your recordings sound pristine with its excellent preamps and high-quality audio conversion.
The LCT 240 Pro large-diaphragm condenser microphone captures detailed and clear audio signals, making it perfect for vocal recording and acoustic instruments.
The bundle also includes Cubase LE and Ableton Live Lite DAW software, allowing you to start producing music immediately. The UAD Volt FX plugins also give you access to various professional audio effects to enhance your productions.
Key Features:
User Experience:
Incredible. The UA experience is nothing short of professional.
Pricing:
Shockingly affordable for what you get.
What I Like/Dislike About the Product
Like:
Dislike:
Get Started with the UA Volt 2 Studio Pack.
2. UA Volt 276 Studio Pack
Tero’s Thoughts
What can I say? The UA Volt 276 Studio Pack takes things up anothe notch from the Volt 2 by adding another preamp input. Incredible package that will cover no doubt all your home studio needs!
5 / 5
Best For
Beginner to Pro
Price Range
Affordable
Genres Covered
All Genres
Additional Features
2nd Input
The UA Volt 276 Studio Pack is another excellent option from Universal Audio, featuring the Volt 276 audio interface and the LCT 240 Pro large-diaphragm condenser microphone. The Volt 276 audio interface offers two XLR inputs and six line outputs, providing greater flexibility when recording and mixing.
Your recordings will sound professional and transparent with its high-quality preamps and audio conversion. The LCT 240 Pro microphone captures detailed audio signals, making it ideal for vocal recording and acoustic instruments.
As with the Volt 2 Studio Pack, this bundle includes Cubase LE and Ableton Live Lite DAW software and the UAD Volt FX plugins, giving you access to professional audio effects for your productions.
Key Features:
User Experience:
Easy to use, pro sound, can’t ask for me than this. Unreal!
Pricing:
Very affordably priced for what you get.
What I Like/Dislike About the Product
Like:
Dislike:
Get Started with the UA Volt 276 Studio Pack.
3. Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio
Tero’s Thoughts
The value of Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio package cannot be understated. It really is great value for money, and a perfectly good enough package to get your home studio setup going.
4.5 / 5
Best For
Beginner
Price Range
Affordable
Genres Covered
All Genres
Additional Features
Includes Headphones
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio 3rd Gen Recording Bundle is an all-in-one package for those starting their music production journey. This bundle includes the popular Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB audio interface, which provides two high-quality XLR inputs, perfect for recording vocals or acoustic instruments.
The package also features a CM25 MkIII large-diaphragm condenser microphone, ideal for capturing clear and detailed audio signals. It’s a good microphone and will help you record vocals that will stand out.
The bundle also include HP60 MkIII closed-back studio headphones, which offers excellent sound isolation for accurate monitoring during recording and mixing sessions. With Ableton Live Lite and Pro Tools First included, you’ll have access to industry-standard DAWs right out of the box, allowing you to dive into music production without any extra purchases.
Key Features:
User Experience:
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 interface is easy to use and runs well with all DAWs.
Pricing:
Very affordably priced for what you get in the package.
What I Like/Dislike About the Product
Like:
Dislike:
Get Started with the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio 3rd Gen Recording Bundle.
4. UA Apollo Twin X DUO Heritage Edition and Shure SM7B Mic Kit
Tero’s Thoughts
If you’re looking for a package that includes the classic Shure SM7B mic then this is the one for you. The UA Apollo Twin X DUO Heritage Edition is an amazing interface that will serve your home studio well.
4 / 5
Best For
Beginner to Pro
Price Range
Expensive
Genres Covered
All Genres
Additional Features
Includes Shure SM7B mic
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio 3rd Gen Recording Bundle is an all-in-one package for those starting their music production journey. This bundle includes the popular Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 USB audio interface, which provides two high-quality XLR inputs, perfect for recording vocals or acoustic instruments.
The package also features a CM25 MkIII large-diaphragm condenser microphone, ideal for capturing clear and detailed audio signals. It’s a good microphone and will help you record vocals that will stand out.
The bundle also include HP60 MkIII closed-back studio headphones, which offers excellent sound isolation for accurate monitoring during recording and mixing sessions. With Ableton Live Lite and Pro Tools First included, you’ll have access to industry-standard DAWs right out of the box, allowing you to dive into music production without any extra purchases.
Key Features:
User Experience:
Easy interface to use, and it’s reliable.
Pricing:
Expensive.
What I Like/Dislike About the Product
Like:
Dislike:
Get Started with the UA Apollo Twin X DUO Heritage Edition and Shure SM7B Mic Kit.
5. PreSonus AudioBox Studio Ultimate Bundle 25th Anniversary Edition
Tero’s Thoughts
This product is great because it has many awesome features. Here I’ll explain how great they are and continue for about three lines. This product is great because it has many awesome features. Here I’ll explain how great they are and continue for about three lines.
3 / 5
Best For
Beginner
Price Range
Reasonable
Genres Covered
All Genres
Additional Features
Includes Studio One DAW
The PreSonus AudioBox Studio Ultimate Bundle 25th Anniversary Edition is a comprehensive package perfect for musicians and producers looking to set up a high-quality home recording studio. This bundle features the AudioBox USB 96 audio interface, which offers two XLR inputs for recording vocals or acoustic instruments.
You’ll also receive the Studio One Artist software, a user-friendly digital audio workstation streamlining your music production process. The Eris E3.5-3.5″ nearfield studio monitors provide accurate sound reproduction for optimal mixing decisions, while the M7 large-diaphragm condenser microphone ensures clear and detailed audio capture.
The HD7 professional monitoring headphones also offer excellent isolation for accurate tracking and mixing. Lastly, the Studio Magic Plugin Suite gives you access to professional plugins to enhance your productions.
Key Features:
User Experience:
Great package if you want to get everything in one. The equipment is good enough to get you started in your home studio without needing much anything else.
Pricing:
Reasonably priced for all the gear you get.
What I Like/Dislike About the Product
Like:
Dislike:
Get Started with the PreSonus AudioBox Studio Ultimate Bundle 25th Anniversary Edition.
6. Apogee Boom 2×2 and Shure SM7B Bundle
Tero’s Thoughts
Apogee makes incredibly high quality gear, and the Boom 2×2 interface is no exception. It also integrates completely with Logic Pro so if you’re planning on working in that DAW, this package is worth considering.
4 / 5
Best For
Beginner to Pro
Price Range
Affordable
Genres Covered
All Genres
Additional Features
Includes Shure SM7B mic
The Apogee Boom 2×2 and Shure SM7B Bundle is perfect for professionals who prioritize sound quality and reliability. The Apogee Boom 2×2 audio interface offers high-quality audio conversion and low-latency monitoring, ensuring your recordings sound their best.
The bundle also includes the industry-standard Shure SM 7B dynamic microphone, known for its versatility and ability to deliver exceptional audio quality for vocals, podcasts, and live performances.
This microphone features excellent background noise rejection and is popular among professional musicians and engineers. The included XLR cable makes it easy to connect the microphone to the audio interface and start recording.
Key Features:
User Experience:
Using the Apogee Boom 2×2 with Logic Pro is seamless. It will work fine with other DAWs too of course, but the integration with Logic Pro X takes this option to the next level. Apogee is also famous for their converters and preamps.
Pricing:
Reasonably priced for what you get.
What I Like/Dislike About the Product
Like:
Dislike:
Get Started with the Apogee Boom 2×2 and Shure SM7B Bundle.
7. Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio
Tero’s Thoughts
If you’re on a shoe string budget but you still want a basic home studio setup, this package could serve you well. The Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio package is about as basic as it’ll get, but it doesn’t mean it’s not good. The gear included here is fine for starting out, and you’ll be making beats in no time.
3 / 5
Best For
Beginner
Price Range
Low Budget
Genres Covered
All Styles
Additional Features
Includes Headphones
The Focusrite Scarlett Solo 2×2 USB Audio Interface Full Studio Bundle is an excellent option for those on a tight budget or with limited space for a home recording studio setup. This package includes the Scarlett Solo 2×2 USB audio interface, which provides one high-quality XLR input for recording vocals or acoustic instruments.
The CM25 MkIII large-diaphragm condenser microphone captures detailed and clear audio signals, while the HP60 MkIII closed-back studio headphones offer accurate monitoring during recording and mixing sessions.
With Ableton Live Lite and Pro Tools First included you’ll have access to industry-standard DAWs right from the start, making this bundle perfect for beginners or experienced producers looking for a compact setup.
Key Features:
User Experience:
Very easy gear to set up and use.
Pricing:
Definitely low budget.
What I Like/Dislike About the Product
Like:
Dislike:
Get Started with the Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio.
8. Motu M4 with MXL 770 Bundle
Tero’s Thoughts
If you’re new to music production, you might not know about Motu. They are a unique, high quality prodcuts and software company that are very well known especially in the music composition world. The Motu M4 is a solid interface, you can’ t go wrong with it.
4 / 5
Best For
Beginner to Pro
Price Range
Affordable
Genres Covered
All Styles
Additional Features
Four XLR Inputs
The Motu M4 with MXL 770 Bundle is a powerful combination for musicians and producers looking for high-quality recording equipment at a reasonable price. The Motu M4 audio interface offers four XLR inputs, allowing you to record multiple audio sources simultaneously.
The Motu M4 ensures your recordings sound professional with its high-quality preamps and low-latency performance. The MXL 770 large-diaphragm condenser microphone captures detailed audio signals, making it ideal for vocal recording and acoustic instruments.
The bundle also includes a shock mount and carrying case for the MXL 770, helping you protect your investment and achieve better audio quality by reducing vibrations and handling noise.
Key Features:
User Experience:
Intuitive and easy to use.
Pricing:
Affordable for the quality you get!
What I Like/Dislike About the Product
Like:
Dislike:
Get Started with the Motu M4 MXL 770 Bundle.
9. Behringer U-Phoria Studio Pro Recording/Podcasting Bundle
Tero’s Thoughts
Behringer is a lower price brand in the audio industry, but they actually make some really useful products. If budget is tight then it’s worth considering this package. It comes with all the basics you need to get going.
3 / 5
Best For
Beginner
Price Range
Low Budget
Genres Covered
All Styles
Additional Features
Includes Headphones
The Behringer U-Phoria Studio Pro Recording/Podcasting Bundle is a budget-friendly option for those looking to start their own home recording studio or podcast. The U-Phoria UM 2 HD audio interface offers one XLR input, making it suitable for single-channel recording projects.
The C-1 large-diaphragm condenser microphone captures clear and detailed audio signals, while the HPS5000 studio headphones accurately monitor recording and mixing sessions.
Key Features:
User Experience:
Very easy gear to set up and use.
Pricing:
Low budget.
What I Like/Dislike About the Product
Like:
Dislike:
Get Started with the Behringer U-Phoria Studio Pro Recording/Podcasting Bundle
10. Steinberg UR22 MKII Recording Pack
Tero’s Thoughts
Steinberg is another brand that’s well known in the music composition circles especially. Hans Zimmer uses Steinberg’s Cubase DAW for his film scoring! So they are no joke. Steinberg is actually owned by Yamaha nowadays, and that combination of knowhow with music gear and instruments makes them a very unique company with great gear and software offerings. Very much a worthwhile package to consider!
4 / 5
Best For
Beginner
Price Range
Affordable
Genres Covered
All Styles
Additional Features
Includes Cubase DAW
The Yamaha Steinberg UR22 MKII Recording Pack offers excellent quality and affordability, making it a popular choice for those looking to set up a home recording studio. The Steinberg UR22 MKII audio interface provides two XLR inputs. It features high-quality preamps and audio conversion, ensuring your recordings sound professional.
The ST-M01 large-diaphragm condenser microphone captures detailed and clear audio signals, perfect for vocal recording and acoustic instruments. The ST-H01 studio monitor headphones offer accurate monitoring during recording and mixing sessions.
This bundle also includes Cubase AI and Cubasis LE DAW software, giving you the tools to start producing music immediately.
Key Features:
User Experience:
Incredibly intuitive and easy gear to use.
Pricing:
Affordable.
What I Like/Dislike About the Product
Like:
Dislike:
Get Started with the Steinberg UR22 MKII Recording Pack.
11. Air 192 | 4 M-Audio Vocal Studio Pro Bundle
Tero’s Thoughts
M-Audio is another brand known for the budget price range. But they make some really useful gear, and the Air 192 | 4 M-Audio Vocal Studio Pro Bundle definitely falls within that category. It comes with everything you need to get going.
3 / 5
Best For
Beginner
Price Range
Low Budget
Genres Covered
All Styles
Additional Features
Includes Headphones
The M-Audio USB C Audio Interface, XLR Condenser Microphone, and Studio Headphones Bundle is an excellent choice for musicians and producers seeking an affordable home studio setup. The M-Audio AIR 192|4 USB-C audio interface offers two XLR inputs and a high-speed USB-C connection for low-latency performance.
The Nova Black large-diaphragm condenser microphone captures detailed audio signals, making it ideal for vocal recording and acoustic instruments. The HDH40 closed-back studio headphones provide accurate monitoring during recording and mixing sessions.
With Pro Tools First and Ableton Live Lite included you’ll have access to industry-standard DAWs from the start.
Key Features:
User Experience:
Easy setup..
Pricing:
Definitely low budget.
What I Like/Dislike About the Product
Like:
Dislike:
Get Started with the Air 192 | M-Audio Vocal Studio Pro Bundle.
12. M-Audio Vocal Studio Pro II
Tero’s Thoughts
When the budget is really tight, M-Audio comes to the rescue with this simple vocal recording package. It’s not the highest end of products, but it’ll get you going just fine.
3 / 5
Best For
Beginner
Price Range
Low Budget
Genres Covered
All Styles
Additional Features
Includes Headphones
The M-Audio M-Tracks Audio Interface, XLR Condenser Microphone, and Studio Headphones Bundle is an all-in-one solutiuon using the latest tech from M-Audio. It’s perfect for a basic home studio setup. The M-Audio M-Tracks USB audio interface offers two XLR inputs.
The M-Audio large-diaphragm condenser microphone is a high-quality microphone perfect for capturing your performance in detail, a great option for vocal recording and acoustic instruments. The M-Audio studio headphones provide accurate monitoring.
With the included Ableton Live Lite DAW and Waves plugins bundle software you’ll have an industry-standard setup.
Key Features:
User Experience:
Very easy gear to set up and use.
Pricing:
Definitely low budget.
What I Like/Dislike About the Product
Like:
Dislike:
Get Started with the M-Audio Vocal Studio Pro II.
13. Mackie Studio Bundle
Tero’s Thoughts
Mackie is another big name from the recent past of the audio industry. They make great products, and the Mackie Studio Bundle keeps with that tradition. This package includes everything you need to get making music, though for recording vocals you’d still need to get a mic separately as the package doesn’t include a mic..
3 / 5
Best For
Beginner
Price Range
Low Budget
Genres Covered
All Styles
Additional Features
Includes Monitor Speakers
The Mackie Studio Bundle offers a comprehensive solution for those looking to set up a professional home recording studio. The Onyx Producer 2-2 audio/MIDI interface features two XLR inputs and high-quality preamps for exceptional sound quality, while the MIDI input/output enables you to connect your MIDI controller or other MIDI-enabled devices like drum machines.
The CR3-X pair of studio monitors deliver accurate and high-quality audio reproduction, allowing you to make critical mixing decisions confidently.
To further enhance the sound quality in your studio, the bundle includes a 24-pack of acoustic soundproof studio foam wedges for good insulation and improved acoustics.
With Pro Tools First and Waveform OEM DAW software included, you’ll have access to industry-standard tools for music production.
Key Features:
User Experience:
Very easy gear to set up and use.
Pricing:
Affordable.
What I Like/Dislike About the Product
Like:
Dislike:
Get Started with the Mackie Studio Bundle.
Choosing the Perfect Home Studio Bundle
Selecting the right equipment for your home recording studio is crucial for achieving the best sound quality.
Studio bundles are designed to cater to different needs and preferences.
Many include everything from digital audio workstations (DAWs) to studio monitors and microphones. Others include less equipment, but the gear included is of higher quality.
The more expensive audio interfaces typically have better preamps and converters.
Home Studio Essential Elements
The best thing to do is to figure out your exact needs, find the package that matches the closest to those needs, and find a great deal on that package. Then get any missing equipment needed to complete your studio setup.
Let’s talk about the essential elements of a home studio. The “I wish I could have” list goes on forever, but these basics will get you far:
- a desk and chair
- a laptop or desktop computer and hard drives
- MIDI controllers and keyboards
- acoustic treatment
- Audio interface and appropriate cables for connecting it to the computer and speakers
- a microphone, stand, pop filter, shockmount, and acoustic guard
- studio monitor speakers and stands (or a desk setup that supports correct speaker placement)
- a pair of headphones
When choosing the studio package for you, it’s a good idea to refer back to this list to check if you need to purchase additional gear to complete your home studio setup.
And when you’re deciding on a microphone, keep in mind that dynamic mics capture only lower frequencies and are not as sensitive as condenser mics, which capture more high frequencies and detail.
If you use a custom built PC for your studio computer, make sure it has enough CPU power, RAM and a powerful enough power supply (PSU) to handle the power draw of running your Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) software.
And no, a USB mic will not do when talking about a professional recording studio. There are some great low budget professional quality options for mics, many of which work well for specific styles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between open-back and closed-back studio headphones?
Open-back headphones have a more natural soundstage and allow air to pass through the ear cups, resulting in a more accurate sound reproduction. However, they can also allow background noise and audio leakage to enter.
Closed-back headphones provide better isolation from external sounds and prevent audio leakage, making them better for recording vocals and instruments without picking up unwanted background noise.
How important is acoustic treatment for a home recording studio?
Investing in acoustic treatment is one of the best ways to ensure accurate sound reproduction and prevent unwanted reflections, which can negatively impact the quality of your recordings. Properly treated spaces help you make better mixing decisions, resulting in higher-quality audio tracks.
What’s the difference between condenser and dynamic microphones?
Condenser microphones are more sensitive and provide more detail, making them ideal for capturing vocals and acoustic instruments. Dynamic microphones are more rugged and better suited for live performances and recording instruments with high sound pressure levels, such as drums and electric guitar amps.
Do I need a MIDI controller for my home recording studio?
A MIDI controller can be valuable to your home studio, mainly if you produce electronic music or use virtual instruments. It lets you control software instruments, adjust parameters, and create more expressive performances.
What is phantom power, and why do I need it?
Phantom power is a feature that most audio interfaces and mixers provide, supplying the necessary voltage for condenser microphones to function. Without phantom power, condenser microphones will not operate.
Should I invest in an external hard drive for my home recording studio?
An external hard drive is a good investment for storing large audio files, projects, and backups. It helps prevent data loss and keeps your computer running smoothly by not overloading its internal hard drive.
What’s the best way to connect my studio monitors to my audio interface?
Studio monitors are typically connected to an audio interface using balanced TRS or XLR cables. These cables provide a better connection and minimize the risk of interference, resulting in more precise audio reproduction.
Can I use a USB microphone instead of a separate mic and an audio interface?
The short answer is, yes, you can, but you shouldn’t.
The long answer: USB microphones have a built-in audio interface, which means they can be connected directly to a computer without needing an external audio interface. But their interface converters and the microphone quality are typically not as good as a separate XLR microphone with a dedicated audio interface will be.
Yes, a USB microphone like a Blue Snowball or Blue Yeti would be fine for a podcast, but even then, I’d recommend just going the extra mile and getting a more professional setup. This is especially a no-brainer if you already have an audio interface with XLR inputs.
It’s generally better to use a traditional XLR microphone for improved sound quality and compatibility with other studio equipment.
How do I choose the recording software for my home studio?
Many different recording software options are available, each with unique features and workflow. Some popular choices include Pro Tools, Logic Pro, Ableton Live, Cubase, Digital Performer, FL Studio, Studio One, and Reaper.
The best option will depend on your personal preference, budget, and the type of music you produce. Most audio interfaces come with free DAW software, which can be a great starting point for beginners.
I recommend reading about each and trying the ones that fit your workflow and match your goals in music production. Most DAWs come with a free trial version.
I personally use Logic Pro for all my work unless Pro Tools is required for a film score delivery, for example. Getting familiar with a DAW takes a long time, so you need to give each one at least a few weeks to get a realistic picture of what would work best for your purposes.
Conclusion
If you’re passionate about music and a gear nerd like me, setting up a home recording studio can be exciting and rewarding.
With many options available, from budget-friendly bundles to more professional setups, there’s never been a better time to dive into music production or upgrade your existing home recording studio.
By considering factors such as your budget, the type of music you produce, and the equipment you already own, you can decide which studio package best fits you.
Take the time to compare the different options we’ve discussed in this blog post, keeping in mind the features and capabilities of each bundle.
Think about the digital audio workstation, studio monitors, microphones, and other equipment included in each package and the acoustic treatment and software options.
You now have all the knowledge needed for setting up the best home recording studio package for beginners.
Remember that investing in high-quality recording equipment can significantly impact your music’s sound quality, helping you create professional-sounding recordings from the comfort of your home.
The most important thing is to enjoy the process and have fun creating music.
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