Are you looking to buy the best home recording studio package? If so, this is the ultimate guide for you. I’ll review a range of studio bundles, explain what bits of gear you should look for, and suggest my top picks.
The best home recording studio packages are more affordable than ever and provide musicians with everything they need to start recording. With so many great options out there, choosing the best home recording bundle can be difficult. I’ve put together this guide to show you the best choices on the market today. I’ve picked a range of bundles that cover all experience levels, from new musicians to seasoned professionals.
The Top 10 Best Recording Studio Packages
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio 3rd Gen Recording Bundle
For anybody who needs high-quality gear.
PreSonus AudioBox 96 Studio 25th Anniversary Edition Bundle
For beginners looking for an affordable all-in-one solution.
Audient EVO Start Recording Bundle
For those who need a quality, efficient bundle at a reasonable price.
M-Audio AIR 192 Complete Vocal Production Package
For those on a budget who need all the essential pieces of gear.
Behringer U-Phoria Studio Pro Recording/Podcasting Bundle
For beginners on a tight budget looking for an affordable entry into recording.
If you need a comprehensive recording bundle.
Universal Audio Volt 276 Studio Pack
High-quality, semi-pro gear.
Steinberg UR22C Recording Pack
A high-quality, all-around package.
The Best Home Recording Studio Packages: Full Reviews
Let’s now take an in-depth look at each one of these options!
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio Bundle
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio Bundle is perhaps one of the most popular for those just starting to record guitars and vocals. This bundle includes almost everything you need for recording but does not include any DAW software. It doesn’t have studio monitors either.
This recording bundle includes a Scarlett 2i2 USB Audio Interface, a condenser microphone, a pair of closed-back headphones, and all the cables you’ll need.
The audio interface in this bundle is powerful. It includes two hybrid XLR/Line inputs, both with decent preamps that feature an AIR switch that mimics the analog tone of the legendary Focusrite ISA preamps. There are also HPF (high pass filter) switches for each input, letting you cut out some low end if the recordings are too bassy.
Focusrite has made trusted studio equipment for years. This is one of the cheapest bundles out there, but it sounds great! Focusrite descends from the Neve company, which is known to make some of the most legendary, best-sounding audio gear in history (1).
The Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio Kit includes:
- Scarlett 2i2 USB audio interface
- Condenser microphone
- Closed-back studio headphones
- XLR cable
- Great value for money.
- Fantastic interface with great preamps.
- Great sounding microphone.
- Highly reputable brand.
- No pop shield, shock mount, mic stand, or speakers
- The interface volume knob had a crackling sound upon testing
- No software
- Mediocre headphones
I recommend this home recording bundle for:
Either beginners or people with some studio gear already (like a DAW and studio monitors) are interested in doing high-quality studio recording on a budget. In my opinion, this is the best bundle on the market in terms of quality and value for money!
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PreSonus AudioBox 96 Studio 25th Anniversary Edition Bundle
The PreSonus AudioBox 96 home recording studio bundle is a simple and reliable kit for musicians looking for a solid, all-in-one recording solution.
The core of this PreSonus Studio bundle is the AudioBox USB 96 audio interface. This compact MIDI-enabled audio interface offers all of the essential capabilities for basic recording, including two combined mic and instrument inputs with zero-latency monitoring, which makes recording a breeze.
This studio recording bundle includes a PreSonus M7 condenser microphone, allowing you to make a high-quality recording that shines when used for vocalists and acoustic guitars.
The best bit about these home recording studio packages is that they also come with a range of software, including Studio One Artist and a copy of Ableton Live Lite – coming in at over $1000 of audio software if purchased separately.
Ableton is one of my favorite DAWs out there. It’s an industry standard with a super flexible workflow, and it makes collaborating with other musicians a breeze (2).
This Studio Kit Includes:
- AudioBox 96 USB interface with phantom power
- M7 condenser microphone
- HD7 professional headphones
- DAWs – Studio One Artist & Ableton Live Lite
- Desktop mic stand
- Cables included
- Great value for money
- High-quality two-channel, hybrid input audio interface
- Includes Ableton Live Lite
- No shock mount or pop filter
- Mic stand too small for some situations
- Mediocre headphones
Recommended for
Beginners looking for an affordable all-in-one solution.
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Audient EVO Start Recording Bundle
The EVO Start recording bundle is a high-quality bundle from experts Audient. It comes with everything you need to start recording, including an interface, condenser mic, headphones, and software.
Audient’s EVO 4 audio interface embraces the burgeoning culture of independent artists, recordists, and podcasters. This USB audio interface contains two EVO 4 preamps with hybrid inputs, a JFET instrument input, class-leading converters, 24-bit/96kHz performance, and a unique Smart Gain automated level-adjusting function. In addition, it is a great travel companion for experienced artists and captures pristine sound quality.
The SR1 Microphone has a 20Hz–18kHz frequency response and a super-cardioid polar design for enhanced off-axis rejection. This microphone will catch every detail of whatever you’re recording.
In addition to its dynamic transducers and closed-back design, the SR2000 headphones also provide excellent sound quality. The company designed these headphones with the long-session user in mind, so you won’t have to worry about discomfort. It also features a 3-meter wire so that you won’t feel confined to your workstation.
This Studio Kit Includes:
- EVO 4 audio interface
- SR1 microphone
- Shockmount and XLR cable
- SR2000 headphones
- Software Bundle
- Cubase LE
- Waldorf LE
- Loopmasters bundle
- And more
- Decent interface with two hybrid inputs
- High-quality mic and headphones
- Good value for money
- Limited software bundle
Recommended for:
Those who need a quality, efficient bundle at a reasonable price.
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M-Audio AIR 192 Complete Vocal Production Package
An affordable kit from M-Audio that comes with a mic, headphones, and an M-Audio Air 192 Interface. This kit is easy to use and sounds great.
The low-noise Crystal preamp from M-Audio is a pristine canvas on which you may paint anything you want in the mix.
The AIR 192|4’s current-generation A/D converters provide enough headroom and minimal distortion throughout the recording process.
With an instrument input on the front panel, the M-Audio AIR 192 is easier to use for guitarists and bassists. If you don’t want to carry about your amp and pedalboard, you may use the Eleven Lite FX package, which comes with the software.
It comes with a large-diaphragm condenser microphone made for voice and guitar recording by M-Audio, with a durable design. In addition to the Class A solid-state electronics, the 1.1-inch diaphragm guarantees that recordings remain authentic to their source. The Nova Black and Vocal Studio Pro microphones are worth every penny.
You’ll want headphones that faithfully represent your source audio and are comfortable enough to last through extended sessions for recording and mixing. With the accompanying M-Audio HDH40 headphones, you can anticipate all of the above. Sweetwater’s M-Audio Vocal Studio Pro bundle is a must-have if you want a high-quality recording setup at an affordable price.
This Studio Kit Includes:
- M-Audio AIR 192|4 interface
- Nova Black large-diaphragm condenser microphone
- HDH40 Studio Headphones
- Affordable
- Easy to use
- Good range of gear and software
- Limited audio quality
Recommended for:
Those on a budget who need all the essential pieces of gear.
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Behringer U-Phoria Studio Pro Recording/Podcasting Bundle
If you haven’t heard of the Behringer company, they are known for producing budget-friendly music gear. While their products are affordable, they still offer pretty decent sound quality, although it doesn’t compete with premier brands.
I heard that they produce their gear cheaper than other companies because they buy components at a huge bulk scale to bring prices down. They are a great brand for beginners looking for affordable recording solutions.
This home recording studio bundle consists entirely of Behringer gear: the UMC 202HD 2-channel USB audio interface, HPS5000 studio headphones, and the classic Behringer C-1 Condenser mic with an XLR cable.
This audio interface is perfect for musicians who are just getting started with home recording and want to be able to record their instruments and vocals without having to buy an expensive audio interface. It has a good range of features, including two hybrid inputs, switchable pads, and direct monitoring.
The C-1 condenser mic is a good workhorse condenser, although it can sound thin and lacks detail compared to more expensive models. However, it’s not bad for a low-cost large-diaphragm condenser microphone and offers more detail than budget dynamic mics.
The headphones aren’t bad for the price either and do the job, although they don’t provide a fantastic sound.
There is no audio recording software included, although at this price, this home recording studio bundle is still a bargain, and you can use Reaper for free or pick up a Lite version of Ableton for around $70.
This Studio Kit Includes:
- Behringer U-Phoria UMC 202HD audio interface
- HPS5000 headphones
- Behringer C1 condenser mic
- XLR cables
- Affordable
- Dual-channel interface
- Budget quality - lacks finesse
- No Software / DAW included
This is the best home recording studio package for:
Beginners on a tight budget looking for an affordable entry into recording.
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Mackie Big Knob Studio Bundle
This Mackie Studio Bundle not only comes with everything you’ll need to produce and mix professional-sounding recordings but also leaves an opportunity for expansion.
This bundle features more items than other packages, including the Big Knob Interface, studio monitors, headphones, two mics (one dynamic, one condenser), mounting, and all the cables you need.
The Big Knob device serves as your audio interface, monitor control, headphone amp, and talkback, among other things. It’s super flexible and has all the controls and functions you could ever ask for.
With two mics, this kit preps you for any recording situation. The EM-91C condenser mic captures vocals and instruments with extra detail and clarity; the EM-89D dynamic mic is adaptable enough to record the loudest instruments and has minimal interference.
The MC-100 closed-back studio headphones deliver crisp sound and noise isolation when tracking. The popular CR3-X monitors give professional studio-quality sound for editing or just hanging out and recording music.
This recording studio bundle is a little pricier than others; however, you get loads. It’s fantastic for the price. If you’re going to be recording acoustic guitar and vocals, this bundle will be perfect for you.
Includes:
- Mackie Big Knob audio interface
- EM-89D dynamic mic
- EM-91C condenser mic
- Mackie CR3-X monitors
- MC-100 headphones
- Shock mounts
- All the cables
- Excellent value for money
- All the items you need for recording
- Two different microphones
- Great sounding monitors
- No pop shield
- No mic stands
- No software
We recommend this complete studio kit for:
Beginner and intermediate musicians looking for a comprehensive recording bundle.
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Rode Complete Studio Kit
With this package, you’ll be able to record clean, low-noise voices and instrument sound wherever you go. The RODE NT1 microphone allows you to bring vocalists and acoustic instruments to the forefront of the mix without excessive coloration. The NT1 is one of the best mics in its price range and has exceptionally low noise.
The accompanying RODE Ai-1 interface offers a USB-C connector for bus power and compatibility with recent computers, making this microphone an ideal fit.
The AI-1 interface is an excellent fit for the NT1. Aside from the USB bus power and 48-volt phantom power, this interface has everything you need to get outstanding recordings done in the studio or on the go. It features a single mic input, 1/4-inch balanced outputs, and a top-quality headphone amp for precise mixing and monitoring.
This bundle includes a pop filter for helping you control plosives and sibilance.
There’s no sensitive singer or loud guitar amp that the RODE NT1 cardioid condenser microphone can’t handle. Your music and speech work will benefit from the high dynamic range afforded by the mic’s very low self-noise. The NT1 is a low-cost studio solution with ultra-quiet operation and adaptability to a broad range of signals.
This Studio Kit Includes:
- AI-1 Audio interface
- NT1 microphone
- Shockmount
- XLR Cable
- High-quality audio capture
- Reliable mic with the same quality as more expensive packages
- Extra mic accessories for a cleaner signal
- The interface doesn’t have multiple inputs
The best home recording studio package for:
People who need a complete vocal production package with music software.
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Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Gen 3, JBL LSR 305, & AT-2020
This bundle has it all. It’s a multi-pack that includes a Scarlett 2i2 interface, a pair of JBL 5-Inch Studio Monitors, and the Audio-Technica AT2020 mic/headphone pack.
Scarlett 2i2 has two updated Scarlett mic preamps, high-performance converters, flexible gain controls, super-low latency, and a pair of hybrid XLR/instrument inputs. Use Focusrite’s famed Air mode on the mic preamps for a brighter, more open sound on your voice and instrument recordings. This Air effect is based on Focusrite’s iconic ISA console transformers.
The AT2020 condenser microphone is included in the streaming/podcasting bundle, a classic mic among low-cost condensers. Other than that, you’ll have access to ATH-M20X headphones for anything from mixing to monitoring. In addition to the boom arm, microphone clip, and Euro-thread adaptor, the kit includes a protective bag to keep everything tidy.
Overall this kit is superb if you need a bunch of studio equipment with decent sound quality.
This Studio Kit Includes:
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 3rd Gen audio interface
- Audio-Technica AT2020PK streaming and podcasting pack
- JBL 305P MkII 5-inch powered studio monitors
- A bunch of XLR cables
- Literally all the gear you need
- Great interface
- Solid mic and headphones
- Quality studio monitors
- All the mic accessories you need
- No software
Recommended for
People who need all the recording equipment.
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Universal Audio Volt 276 Studio Pack
Universal Audio is one of the top brands in audio gear, and for good reason. They make their equipment with the highest level of quality control possible.
This home studio bundle is a little pricier than others and includes less gear, but the main focus is the top-quality USB audio interface. The Volt 276 USB-C is one of the best small profile interfaces and has a broad range of features and an unbeatable sound. It can record in ultra-high quality (192kHz) and has switches for a vintage model, giving it extra warmth and crunch with a retro feel. The converters are fantastic and produce clean, highly detailed recordings. It even includes built-in compression in the style of classic 1176 hardware units.
The included condenser microphone sounds excellent and has a high level of sensitivity which is ideal if you want to record vocals or acoustic instruments. However, this kit doesn’t include a mic stand or other accessories besides the mounting.
This bundle also features a bunch of software, including a copy of Ableton Live Lite, Melodyne, and some high-quality third-party plugins like Marshall and Ampeg amp sims and UJAM’s virtual drummer.
This Studio Kit Includes:
- UAD 276 USB-C Audio interface
- Volt Condenser Microphone
- Closed-back headphones
- XLR Cables
- Unrivaled Audio Interface Quality
- Top sound quality
- Fantastic Microphone
- Great Headphones
- Good software bundle
- Too expensive for beginners
- Lacks extra accessories
This is the best home recording studio package for:
Semi-experienced musicians with other gear, looking for a top-quality recording interface.
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Steinberg UR22C Recording Pack
Steinberg is one of the best-known brands in audio and makes fantastic hardware and software. This kit includes one of their two-channel interfaces, a condenser mic, and headphones. Although it offers high-quality hardware, it’s a little more expensive than other kits.
This USB interface provides high-grade recording resolutions and a high level of functionality. Two phantom-powered combination mic/line combo inputs provide flexible recording choices. Because it works with Mac, PC, and iPad, the UR22C offers a more adaptable interface than many competitors.
The included software packages are pretty good too, coming with Cubasis lite and WaveLabe lite. These have more functionality than other DAWs and are great for mixing and mastering. The condenser mic also offers good quality and records with solid detail.
Overall this is a decent bundle. It doesn’t include monitors, but it has everything else you need to record audio.
This Studio Kit Includes:
- Steinberg UR22C USB audio interface
- ST-M01 studio condenser microphone
- ST-H01 studio monitor headphones
- Software bundle:
- Cubasis LE
- WaveLab LE
- High-quality gear
- Reliable multi-channel interface
- Decent mic and headphones
- Good software
- No stands or mic accessories
- No monitors
The best home recording studio package for:
People who need a high-quality, well-featured setup that already have monitors.
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Buyer’s Guide
Once upon a time, you needed access to a professional recording studio to capture decent-sounding recordings. Fortunately, with advances in technology, you can create pro-sounding tracks from your own bedroom home recording studio — all you need is a good home recording studio package. If you use the right equipment, you can make an album in your bedroom that sounds like it was made in Abbey Road.
A recording studio bundle is a great way to get everything you need to start recording. Not only is it easier to place a single order, but you save money when compared to buying all the parts individually, getting you better overall value for money!
What Do You Need For Recording Guitar And Music At Home?
Gone are the days of complex tape machines and big mixing desks. To get a clean and professional recording at home, you only need a few pieces of equipment.
What follows is a rundown of a simple guitar recording setup at home.
A Laptop or computer
This is the heart of modern music production and recording. While you don’t need a supercomputer to get great results, having something with a current processor and a decent amount of RAM will make your life easier. If you already have a good machine, you won’t need to buy a new one. Older, underpowered computers will often limit the level of complexity you can run in your sessions and can inhibit your workflow. That being said, some DAWs are optimized well enough to run on old potato computers!
A DAW (Digital Audio Workstation)
This is the software used to record, edit, and mix songs on a computer. It offers a vast range of functionality. Learning how to use DAWs properly is essential for creating professional-sounding music. There are a load of different DAWs out there, each geared towards specific types of situations and users, although they all perform the same tasks on a foundational level.
Some DAW software also comes in a range of versions, from beginner to pro, offering different levels of features. Most of the DAWs in the bundles we reviewed above are only the basic versions — they have everything you need to get started, but you can always upgrade them later if you need more power.
Although many more are out there, the most popular DAWs are Ableton Live, Logic Pro, FL Studio, Pro Tools, Cubase, and Reaper. They primarily work with both Mac and PC
USB audio interface
Audio interfaces convert audio signals from sources (like guitars and microphones) to a digital signal recorded by the computer. These are a core piece of any recording setup.
There is also a massive range of these on the market, each offering varying levels of functionality, connections, features, and quality. I’d suggest choosing one with both XLR mic inputs and a ¼” guitar-cable instrument input to record either directly from an electric guitar or plug a mic in and record acoustic sounds. Some interfaces feature combo inputs that accept both connection types.
Microphone
If you plan on recording vocals, guitars, guitar amps, or acoustic instruments, you’ll need a mic. There is a whole range of microphone types, the most notable being dynamics and condensers.
Condensers require a +48v phantom power switch on the interface and are more sensitive, with more detail, although they pick up more background noise in rooms without acoustic treatment.
Dynamic mics cope better with louder sounds and are more durable. If you can afford it, I would recommend getting one of each.
Monitors/Headphones
Owning both headphones and monitors is advantageous. If you plan to record with a microphone, you will need to use a pair of studio headphones to prevent feedback. However, the monitors will give you a better perception of the overall performance of the mix, so it helps to have both when mixing.
Reference monitors have a flat response and don’t color the sound, giving you the most accurate perception of your recordings. Not every studio recording bundle comes with these, so you may need to buy them separately.
Cables
Wires are all too often forgotten. It’s a big letdown when you finally get your home recording bundle in the post only to discover that there are no cables included.
First, you’ll need XLRs for microphones, 1/4-inch for instruments such as guitars, and a USB cable to connect the interface to your PC. Most bundles include all the cables you need, but it’s good to check anyway. You may also need an adaptor for headphones.
Mic Stand
This is one of those bonus accessories that not everyone will need, but you definitely will if you are working with mics. It’s frustrating to use a mic without one, and they’re available at a low cost. A studio recording bundle with a mic usually includes a stand. In any pro music recording situation, you’ll want one of these!
There are many styles of home recording studio setups. The exact type of setup you use can vary depending on how you like to make music and the rest of your arrangement.
In any case, it’s good to make sure you are investing in a future-proofed setup that will accommodate you when your techniques grow. I recommend a studio recording bundle with an audio interface with multiple input types and a microphone.
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Conclusion – Which is the best pick?
The answer here will be different for everyone, based on their budget, experience level, and needs.
I’d recommend the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio Bundle. This is a good balance of quality and price. If you are looking for an all-in-one, fully-featured home recording bundle, I’d suggest the Mackie Big Knob Studio Bundle, which literally has everything you need!
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Extra recommended accessories.
Below are a few other accessories that might be useful in your home studio.
Auralex Acoustic Foam panels (24 pack)
An affordable solution for cleaning your room's acoustics and minimizing reflections. (My room with these).
Akai MPK Mini Play 3 25-key MIDI Keyboard
A small midi keyboard for controlling your DAW and virtual instruments.
Affordable choice if you need a microphone stand. It makes recording a breeze.
Speaker/ Studio Monitor Stands
Isolate your studio monitors from your desk, getting a cleaner, more accurate sound.
SE Electronics Portable Vocal Booth
A fantastic solution for clean vocal recordings. These are essential if you have any kind of vocal studio or want to record better vocals in a limited acoustic environment.
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FAQs
Many questions come up when choosing these bundles. Here are some of your most asked questions and our well-researched answers!
What is the best recording package?
You really can’t beat the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Studio Bundle this high-quality bundle offers great value for money and is a great starter package. For a decent all-in-one package, I recommend the Mackie Big Knob Studio Bundle which has all the gear you need, and a decent interface and speakers. The Universal Audio Volt 276 Studio Pack is also a great choice.
How much does it cost to set up a recording studio at home?
You could spend hundreds of thousands of dollars setting up a home studio, but you can save a tonne of money with a bundle. You can set up a solid home recording studio for as little as $200!
Are studio bundles good?
Home recording studio packages are an excellent way for a beginner to get started, and you save loads of money buying in a bundle rather than purchasing individual items. Bundles provide less customization than buying things individually, and it might take a bit of research to find one that meets your needs.
How do I record studio-quality audio at home?
There are just a few simple things you need to record studio quality. A high-quality condenser microphone with a quality cable for vocals. A good quality electric guitar and quality cable for an electric guitar. An interface from a reputable brand and a DAW. That’s all you need to record studio-quality vocals and guitar!
If you can afford some acoustic treatment, then this will help to improve the quality even more. Even just putting some foam on the walls can make a noticeable improvement.
References:
- Pro.focusrite.com, “Our Heritage Sound, ” as published here https://pro.focusrite.com/case-studies/recording/our-heritage-sound
- Ableton.com, “Best Practices for Collaborating Remotely,” as published here https://help.ableton.com/hc/en-us/articles/360012680119-Best-Practices-for-Collaborating-Remotely
