Beginner Home Studio Gear Checklist (2025)

The Absolute Essentials

1. Microphone

• USB Mic (e.g. Fifine K669B or Blue Yeti)

• or XLR Mic + Audio Interface (for better quality)

2. Audio Interface

• Only needed if using XLR mic (e.g. Focusrite Solo, Behringer UMC22)

3. Headphones

• Closed-back studio headphones (e.g. ATH-M20x or Samson SR850)

4. DAW Software

• Free: Audacity, Cakewalk

• Paid (but worth it): Reaper, FL Studio, Ableton Live Intro

5. Mic Stand + Pop Filter

• Cheap combo kits work great to start

Nice-to-Haves (but not urgent)

• Acoustic foam or blankets for sound control

• MIDI keyboard (for beatmakers)

• Monitor speakers (if you outgrow headphones)

Budget Breakdown Options

• Under $150: USB mic + free DAW + basic headphones

• Under $500: Full setup with XLR mic, interface, headphones, and DAW