Mobile Microphone: Invest in a mobile microphone, like a Samson Satellite. Mobile mics plug directly into your smartphone, and are a great option if you’re on a budget and don’t have a lot of recording space. [3] X Research source You can get a mobile microphone for anywhere between $50 and $90. USB Microphone: USB mics plug directly into your laptop or computer, and are pretty budget-friendly. They aren’t quite as portable as mobile mics, but they offer decent quality without breaking the bank. [4] X Research source High-quality USB mics can go for anywhere from $50 to $350. XLR Microphone: XLR microphones are more professional-sounding and durable than USB mics. Unlike their USB counterpart, XLR mics are routed through an audio interface, which is plugged into your computer. [5] X Research source XLR mics sell at a variety of price points. Cheaper mics go for around $100-$250, while pricier mics can cost at least $400. Two XLR Microphones: With this setup, you’ll have 2 XLR microphones, which each represent the listener’s left and right ears. While this is one of the most expensive setups of them all, using 2 microphones will create high-quality, satisfying ASMR audio that’s sure to have your audience coming back for more. [6] X Research source Binaural Microphone: Similar to the 2 XLR mics, binaural microphones also imitate a person’s left and right ears, which creates a realistic and satisfying listening experience. Some binaural mics look and work like earbuds and record directly from your ears. Other mics look like metal boxes with prosthetic ears attached to each side—these “ears” actually record audio, all while mimicking a person’s listening experience. [7] X Research source Earbud-style mics can go for as low as $150, while high-end box-style mics cost at least $400.
When it comes to larger stands, tripod-style equipment is pretty all-purpose, while tripod boom- and overhead-style stands offer a bit more extension. [10] X Research source A large microphone stand can cost at least $25. Some USB microphones come with a stand.
You can buy a pop filter for less than $25 online.
Sony ZV-1: This small camera offers features like high resolution recording and autofocusing. Most big-name retail stores sell it for between $700 and $750. Fujifilm X-S10: This camera is definitely on the pricey side, but it offers high-quality recordings and a fantastic sensor. The retail price typically falls somewhere between $1,000 and $1,400. Fujifilm X-T200: This camera is well-loved for its movable touchscreen and high resolution. Plus, some stores sell it for as little as $600.
You can buy a tripod online for less than $30.
A good ring light can cost anywhere between $60 and $120.
If you’re willing to make an investment, take a look at the Dell XPS 15, Dell G5 15 SE, MacBook Pro, Alienware Area-51m, or Microsoft Surface Book 2. These are all excellent video editing options that all fall between $1,100 and $2,400. [18] X Research source
You can pick up a pair of studio headphones for as little as $20. Noise-cancelling and wireless headphones aren’t great options for audio work. Instead, choose a high-quality pair with changeable pads and a medium amount of noise isolation.
You can download and/or purchase these programs online. Just open up a search engine and type “download” along with the DAW you’re looking for. Free DAWs are a great starting point, but they don’t typically offer as many features as paid programs. A paid DAW program can set you back anywhere between $100 to $450. [22] X Research source
If you don’t mind spending a little extra money, consider a program like Adobe Premiere Pro, which is used by video editing pros all over the industry. CyberLink PowerDirector and Apple Final Cut Pro X are other excellent options. [26] X Expert Source Travis PageBrand & Product Specialist Expert Interview. 27 June 2019. Adobe and CyberLink are both monthly subscription services, while Final Cut Pro has an upfront cost of $300. Lightworks are actually on par with paid editing software, but it can be tricky to learn the ropes at first.
Egg crate foam often comes in multiples of 6. You can get a 6-pack for less than $15, and a 24-pack for less than $40. Some bass traps are triangular and designed to go in corners. These can be pretty cheap, and are often sold in multi-packs for less than $30. Rectangular panels tend to be on the pricier side, and cost at least $50. If your recording space is full of windows, cover the glass with moving blankets. [29] X Research source Some people find that recording in a clothing-filled closet helps boost their quality since the garments provide some extra sound insulation. [30] X Research source
Some interfaces are more pricey than others. If you’re on a budget, you can find interfaces for less than $100. Your audio interface connects to your computer via a USB cord. If you have a USB microphone, you don’t need to get an audio interface.
If you have a USB microphone, you don’t need to get any XLR cables.
