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How to Build the Perfect Home Studio for Only $500

Writer's picture: CodeMasters MarketingCodeMasters Marketing

Updated: 2 hours ago


How to Build Home Studio for $500 illustration

Creating a home studio doesn’t have to break the bank. With the right planning and smart purchases, you can build a home studio that offers professional-quality results within $500. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the essentials you’ll need and provide product recommendations to help you achieve your dream setup.


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1. Microphone

Audio-Technica AT2020
Credit: Amazon

A high-quality microphone is the cornerstone of any studio setup. The Audio-Technica AT2020 is an excellent entry-level choice. It’s a condenser microphone that offers studio-quality sound and works well for vocals, podcasts, and instrument recordings. The cardioid polar pattern reduces background noise and isolates the sound source, ensuring a clean recording every time.


With its durable metal construction, the AT2020 can withstand frequent use, making it a reliable companion for your creative projects. Whether you're a budding musician, a podcast host, or someone looking to improve their Zoom calls, this microphone delivers exceptional clarity and performance. It’s also compact enough to fit neatly into smaller setups, giving you flexibility without sacrificing quality.


Cost: $150



2. Audio Interface


Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen)
Credit: Amazon

An audio interface connects your microphone and other equipment to your computer. The Focusrite Scarlett Solo (3rd Gen) is affordable and reliable, with clear preamps and low-latency performance. The preamps feature an "Air" mode that enhances the quality of your vocals and instruments, giving them a bright, open sound.


This compact device includes a high-quality XLR input for your microphone and a line input for instruments like guitars or keyboards, making it incredibly versatile. It’s powered via USB, so you don’t need an external power supply, and the included software bundle—featuring Pro Tools First and Ableton Live Lite—means you’re ready to record right out of the box. The Scarlett Solo’s sleek design and intuitive controls make it ideal for beginners, while its robust build ensures it can handle long-term use by professionals.


Cost: $178



3. Headphones

Audio Technica ATH-M20X Headphones
Credit: Amazon

Monitoring your audio accurately is essential. The Audio-Technica ATH-M20x headphones deliver excellent sound clarity at an affordable price. These over-ear headphones are designed for comfort during long sessions and offer a balanced audio profile, ensuring you hear every detail in your recordings.


With a sturdy and lightweight design, these headphones are perfect for extended use without causing discomfort. They also feature excellent sound isolation, which minimizes external noise so you can focus on your work. Whether you’re recording vocals or mixing tracks, the ATH-M20x headphones provide a reliable and high-quality audio experience that fits seamlessly into any home studio setup.



4. Studio Monitors (Optional)

PreSonus Eris E3.5-3.5" Near Field Studio Monitors
Credit: Amazon

If you prefer speakers for mixing, the PreSonus Eris E3.5 studio monitors are compact, affordable, and deliver excellent audio quality for their size. These monitors provide accurate sound reproduction, ensuring your mixes translate well across different playback systems. Featuring a front-panel volume control and headphone jack, they’re easy to operate and versatile for various studio needs.


The monitors come equipped with a high-frequency driver and low-frequency woofer that work together to produce a balanced sound profile. Their compact size makes them ideal for small spaces, while their impressive sound quality rivals that of larger, more expensive monitors. If you’re serious about mixing or simply want high-quality sound, the Eris E3.5 is a fantastic addition to your studio.


Cost: $224



5. Mic Stand and Pop Filter

InnoGear Mic Stand nd Dual Layered Mic Pop Filter Suspension
Credit: Amazon

To position your microphone correctly and reduce plosive sounds, you’ll need a stand and a pop filter. A bundle like the InnoGear Mic Stand with Pop Filter provides both and saves you money. The adjustable arm stand ensures you can position your microphone at the perfect height and angle for optimal sound quality.


It’s sturdy enough to hold most microphones securely, yet lightweight for easy adjustments. The included pop filter plays a vital role in improving audio quality by minimizing plosive sounds—those harsh bursts of air from "p" and "b" sounds. Together, these accessories create a more professional recording environment, helping you achieve studio-grade results without the hefty price tag.


Cost: $67


6. Acoustic Treatment

Focusound 50 Pack Acoustic Foam Panels 1" x 12" x 12" Sound Proof Foam Panles
Credit: Amazon

Good acoustics make a significant difference in recording quality. Foam panels like the Focusound 50 Pack Acoustic Foam Panels are cost-effective and easy to install. These panels measure 1" x 12" x 12" and come in a wedge design that effectively absorbs sound and reduces echo.


With a pack of 50 panels, you’ll have ample coverage for your recording space, and the included 270 double-sided adhesive strips make installation a breeze. By strategically placing these foam panels around your recording area, you can eliminate harsh reflections and improve sound clarity. Whether you’re working in a small or large space, this acoustic treatment will transform your home studio into a professional recording environment.


Cost: $51

7. Cables and Accessories

Amazon Basics XLR Male to Female Microphone Cable for Speaker or PA System
Credit: Amazon

Don’t forget to budget for XLR cables and any adapters you might need. A reliable XLR cable like the Amazon Basics XLR Cable will suffice for most setups. These cables are durable, provide clear signal transmission, and are long enough to offer flexibility in your studio layout. Having a few spare cables is always a good idea to avoid disruptions during recording sessions.


Cost: $11



Total Cost

Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • Microphone: $150

  • Audio Interface: $178

  • Headphones: $69

  • Studio Monitors (Optional): $224

  • Mic Stand and Pop Filter: $67

  • Acoustic Treatment: $51

  • Cables: $11


Grand Total: $526 (or $750 with studio monitors)


Where to Buy

We’ve linked all the recommended products at the beginning of this post for your convenience. Here they are again:



By investing wisely, you can create a home studio that meets your needs without exceeding your budget. Ready to get started? Click the links above to shop for your perfect setup today!


Conclusion: Build the Perfect Home Studio for $500

Creating a home studio on a budget doesn’t mean sacrificing quality. With the right equipment, such as a reliable microphone, headphones, and audio interface, alongside thoughtful accessories like a mic stand and acoustic treatment, you can produce professional-grade recordings at home. The recommended products in this guide are carefully chosen to maximize value while keeping costs within $500. Start building your dream studio today and unlock your creative potential!


Affiliate Disclaimer

This blog post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you purchase through these links. These commissions help support our work and allow us to provide helpful content like this guide. Thank you for your support!


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