📁  Starter Studio Kit for $300

🧩 Essential Picks

🎤 Microphone: Samson Q2U (USB/XLR) – ~$70

Best of both worlds. USB now, XLR upgrade later.

🎚 Audio Interface: Behringer UMC22 – ~$60

Budget-friendly with good sound and phantom power.

🎧 Headphones: Samson SR850 – ~$40

Excellent sound for price, semi-open back.

📁 DAW: Cakewalk (Free)

Professional-grade with no cost.

🛠️ Accessories

• Mic stand + pop filter combo: ~$25

• XLR cable: ~$10

Total: ~$295
Perfect for vocalists, streamers, and bedroom producers.

⚠️ What to Skip (for now)

• Studio monitors (use headphones)

• Fancy software plugins (use free VSTs)

• Acoustic panels (improvise with blankets)