The essentials of sound recording equipment

Whether you're an amateur or a professional, here's some advice on the basics to keep in mind when buying sound recording equipment:

Microphone

This is one of the most important pieces of sound recording equipment you will buy - without a decent microphone, you simply won't be able to capture high-quality sound. Do not be overwhelmed by the incredibly wide selection of mics for broadcast, studio recording and professional location work: if you know exactly what you want to use it for, you're halfway there.

Microphone boom poles

Made from either carbon fibre or aluminium, the right microphone boom pole can make life a lot easier. Choose a lightweight, compact pole with quick release detachable tips and sufficient length when extended.

Windshields

Microphone wind and handling noise can be effectively controlled with a wide range of windshield devices, depending on your needs.


Radio microphones

Depending on your needs, a radio microphone might be more effective, allowing greater freedom of movement for the performer and recorder. Ensure the wireless mic will cover the distance you need without breaking up, and will reflect the quality of the overall sound recording equipment.

Headphones

A set of professional, quality headphones will make your life a lot easier. Make sure it is suited for your specific needs, whether it's for recording in studio or on location.

Recorder

Choose a digital recorder that will allow high-resolution sound recording to a convenient device, such as an internal hard drive or external FireWire drive.

Mixer

A mixer is a piece of sound recording equipment that is used to combine, route or change the level, timbre and/or dynamics of audio signals. Mixing consoles, also known as soundboards, are used in many applications, including recording studios, broadcasting and television. Many people are going "mixerless", however, as computer software is allowing sound engineers to do their mixes digitally.