Recording Equipment

Beginner Studio Set Up

Below are a couple of nice options for complete beginners to home recording. Firstly we have the Tascam Portastudios which are perfect if you dont want to use a computer and secondly we have the NT1 microphone set with a audio interface by Focusrite.

I personally use a Focusrite and the NT1 almost every day so I know they are both fabulous. The Tascams are also great and I have had the pleasure of playing with one of these. Perfect for learning how to build tracks!

Tascam DP-006 – 6-Track Digital Pocketstudio

6-Track Digital Pocketstudio. Portable, ultra-compact and easy-to-use multitrack recorder. Simple, intuitive user interface.
High-quality recording (44.1kHz/16-bit). Recording media: SD/SDHC card (2GB SD card included).
Built-in stereo condenser microphone. Two Mic/Line inputs. Dedicated Level and Pan controls.
Track bounce feature. Dedicated stereo master track. Locate features. Repeat playback. Editing functions. Undo/Redo feature. Chromatic Tuner/Metronome.
USB 2.0 port for file transfer to/from computer (exports/imports WAV tracks). Power supply by AA batteries or optional AC adapter. Stand adapter (¼ inch) on bottom side.

Tascam DP-03SD 8-track Digital Portastudio

Two-band shelving EQ per track and on both inputs - Set the frequencies the low and high EQ knobs cut or boost depending on your sound sources
Headphones output with level control
Two TRS line inputs, one switchable to guitar (hi-Z) - Connect an electrical guitar or bass as well as synths, drum machines etc. directly
Two XLR mic inputs with phantom power - Plug in your favourite studio condenser microphones
Built-in stereo condenser microphone - Create a two-track recording instantly and without cabling

RØDE NT1-A Vocal Pack - 1" Cardioid Condenser Microphone with Shock Mount & Focusrite Scarlett Solo 3rd Gen USB Audio Interface

Large 1" (25mm) capsule with gold plated diaphragm
Ultra low noise, transformerless surface mount circuitry
Self noise of only 5db (a)
The best performing mic preamps the Scarlett range has ever seen, now with switchable Air mode to give your recordings a brighter and more open sound
One high-headroom instrument input to plug in your guitar or bass
High-performance converters enable you to record and mix at up to 24-bit/192kHz
Two hum-free balanced outputs provide clean audio playback

Tiger MCA68-BK Microphone Boom Stand, Mic Stand with Free Mic Clip - Black

Two tier height adjustable centre pole with a range from 101cm – 161cm
Boom arm usable length of 58cm great for vocal, drum kits, amplifier cabs and overhead microphones
Includes universal mic clip with 5/8” to 3/8” adaptor
Tripod legs with rubberised feet improve stability and prevent slipping on hard floors
Fully foldable design packs down to 95cm x 9.5cm x 9.5cm

£108.50 Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen)

Incredibly high-quality audio interface for home and professional studios
Featuring the best yet Scarlett preamps - now with Air mode
Optimised audio conversion for the best quality audio every time
XLR input for recording vocals or instruments
Includes Ableton Live Lite, Splice Sounds subscription and other music software

The Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen) is the third generation of the popular Scarlett series, featuring a 2-in/2-out configuration and Air-enabled mic preamps. The Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen) Audio Interface is one of the most affordable yet great-sounding interfaces on the market with the best sounding Scarlett preamps to date. The interface includes class-leading 24-bit/192kHz AD-DA converters, delivering pristine sound quality. It features everything you need to record vocals and instruments, including built-in Phantom Power for use with condenser microphones.

The low-latency, rock-solid USB driver allows you to monitor and record in near real-time. It also comes complete with a comprehensive music software suite including Ableton Live Lite, Focusrite's Red Plug-In Suite and three months of free access to Splice Sounds. It's the perfect interface for beginners and professionals alike, providing you with everything you need to get achieve studio-grade recordings.

Special Offer - Focusrite's Plug-In Collective brings monthly plug-in deals to all registered customers of any Focusrite product.

£175.00 Focusrite Scarlett Solo Studio (3rd Gen)

All-in-one studio recording bundle for musicians and songwriters
Includes Scarlett Solo interface, microphone and headphones
Featuring the best yet Scarlett preamps - now with Air mode
Optimised audio conversion for the best quality audio every time
Includes Ableton Live Lite, Splice Sounds subscription and other music software

£151.75 Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 (3rd Gen)

Two combination inputs, ideal for recording vocals and instruments simultaneously
Featuring the best yet Scarlett preamps - now with Air mode
Optimised audio conversion for the best quality audio every time
Includes Ableton Live Lite, Splice Sounds subscription and other music software

£27.60 IK Multimedia iRig 2 Mobile Guitar Interface

Streamlined design offers a sleek and tidy setup
Experience incredible control over your sound thanks to versatile gain control
Use anywhere, anytime - it is compatible with iPhone, iPad, Mac and more
Take to the stage quickly and easily thanks to a 1/4" amplifier output