Home Studio Setup, Pt. 1a: More Definitions
In this series, we’re going over the basics of setting up & using a home recording space. Let’s continue defining our space today, keeping in mind:
DIYing your own recordings can give you more control over the end product. In theory.
But, that’s only true if you’re also at a professional level as a technical music producer. To be honest, most musicians way overestimate their own abilities in this regard. And, I say this as someone who has done all of these things, and makes a living in both areas, at the professional level.
Here’s my bio: I’m a masters level music performance specialist with multiple degrees, a deep resume of professional performance experience in everything from rock bands to session work to classical music, and I’m also a mastering engineer and studio owner.
There’s a big difference between having a vision, and having the technical ability to accurately execute that vision. Doing the tech stuff is not easy, and it really can be a distraction from the artistic creative process. There is a reason why production professionals are often called the “fifth member” of a band-we add a lot of value to your work.
Solutions for the best quality musical work done at home
My recommendation? Spend your money on amazing instruments and easy-to-use recording gear that sounds good enough. Then, when your very best songs are ready, get those recordings done right, by finding the right pro for the job. This is a much more cost-effective approach than trying to do every single little thing on your own.
It’s also way more creatively satisfying. Which is better: having a bunch of meh songs out there you hacked together on your own, or just a few songs but ones that you’re really super proud of?
Ideally, it’s everything: amazing singles, EPs, and albums, all shown together in your body of work. But, when you’re just starting out, you might not be able to do all of this at once. So, in that case, I’m going for less songs released at highest quality, every single time.
If you’re nervous handing over control, you just haven’t found the right production collaborator yet. Keep looking. Get to know some great recording pros in your area, people you feel comfortable trusting with your music.
The people you work with are what makes your record, not the gear, so find the right people and pay them fair wages to help you.
Beware of the dirt cheapest providers. Real easy to have a bad time.
Conclusions
By now, you should have a clearer sense of the kind of space you want to build for yourself: a writing studio versus a professional music production space.
It might be obvious which of these I’d consider best for 99% of DIY artists who just want to write great songs. Next time on this series, we’ll get into making specific gear choices, and the order of those choices, as you build up your studio.
