How to make a professional sound recording on a small budget

Part 3 - the recording environment

Recording a high-quality song can be a challenge, especially if you don't have access to expensive equipment or professional studios. However, there are some simple steps you can take to improve the quality of your recordings without breaking the bank. One of the most important things you can do is to record in a suitable space.

Finding a quiet and treated space to record in can make a big difference in the quality of your recordings. When you record in a noisy environment, you're likely to pick up unwanted background noise, which can be distracting and affect the overall quality of your recording. Even if you're recording at home, there are likely to be sounds from outside, such as traffic or neighbors, that can be picked up by your microphone.

If you don't have access to a professional studio, there are some simple things you can do to create a good recording environment at home.

Here are a few tips:

1. Choose a quiet space: When choosing a space to record in, look for a room that is away from any sources of noise, such as traffic or neighbors. A basement or attic can work well, as they tend to be more isolated from outside noise.
2. Soundproof the room: You don't need to spend a lot of money to soundproof a room. Simply hanging blankets or thick curtains on the walls can help absorb sound and reduce echo. You can also use foam acoustic panels, which are relatively inexpensive and can be easily installed on walls or ceilings.
3. Record in a closet: A closet can provide a soundproofed environment for recording, as the clothes and other items in the closet help absorb sound. Simply hang blankets or foam acoustic panels on the walls of the closet, and place your microphone inside.
4. Use a pop filter: A pop filter is a simple tool that can help reduce the popping sounds that occur when you say certain letters, such as "P" or "B". Simply attach the pop filter to your microphone and position it between your mouth and the microphone.

Recording in a quiet and treated space can make a big difference in the quality of your recordings, even if you're working with a limited budget. By choosing a quiet space, soundproofing the room, recording in a closet, and using a pop filter, you can create a clean and clear recording that sounds professional. So, start experimenting with different recording environments today and see how much of a difference it can make in the quality of your recordings!

By Vladimir Gilis