Need to record voices for a cartoon, voice over, or something else? I set up my cheap, affordable, home recording studio. This is what I use to record the voices for my cartoons. You will need:
1. MIC 2. Pop Filter 3. Audio-Interface4. Editing/Recording Software 5. Sound Box (Optional) 
1. Mic. I use a Nady Starpower SP-1 microphone. It is a great and affordable microphone. I've been 100% happy with it so far. Works best speaking directly into the mic. This microphone averages from $15 to $20. You can get a set that includes a mic, cable and a mic stand for $25. ($25) Here's a link to the Starpower Mic for only about 15 bucks
Nady Starpower SP-1 dynamic microphone
2. Pop filter . A pop filter keeps stops the unwanted popping sound which results from forceful sounds or burst of air as in when pronouncing the B or the P sound. You can buy a cheap one for about $10. Or make one. Take a wire closehanger shape it into a square or a circle. Stretch panty hose over it and tie the pantyhose. BAM! Free pop filter. (FREE!)
Want to buy a non ghetto pop filter check this one out: Pop Filter
Want to buy a non ghetto pop filter check this one out: Pop Filter
3. Audio-interface. The audio interface allows you to record quality sound through a computer. I purchased an M-Audio Mobile Pre USB preamp/audio interface, at a thrift store for $7. They typically run around $120. This is a must for an at home studio. ($120) Below are 3 M-Audio interface options. These are The newer versions (Click to see price and/or order one) : Good: Fast Track; Better: Fast Track Pro; Best: Fast Track Ultra
M-Audeio Mobile Pre USB preamp/audio interface
4. Good sound editing software . Usually if you purchase an audio interface then it will come with editing software. M-Audio usually sets you up with ProTools which is an awesome program for editing. Since my interface was second hand, i didn't get the program with it. So I downloaded a program called Audacity (http://audacity.sourceforge.net/) which is a free download and works perfect for my needs. (FREE) If you are interested in puchasing ProTools here is a link to it, it's a bit pricey though.
5. Sound box. I'm not sure if this is completely nesecerry but I use a tube speaker/sub box to put my mic in. I put foam around the inside of the tube to reduce outside noise and echos. Most recording studios have some sort of padding or sound insulation on the walls to keep out unwanted sounds. I don't have this, so i made a mini one. I'm sure any kind of box would work, and any sort of padding or cloth should do the trick on the inside. Just use what you have around the house. (FREE!)
My tube speaker box mic houseing. You can see the foam wrapped around the inside to prevent echo. I ran the mic cable through the whole in the back and simply laid the mic inside facing the front.
Run your audio interface through any computer USB. Connect your mic to your cable and the cable to the interface. Place the Mic inside your sound box facing the side you will be speaking into. Place your Pop filter infront of your mic. (when you speak the filter will be between your mouth and the mic). Install your software . Learn the quick basics of how to use your software. Start recording.
Total Cost of this home recording studio: $145
Get lucky like me and find an interface at a Goodwill and pay: $32
Click on the pictures below for details or to purchase each item.
Total Cost of this home recording studio: $145
Get lucky like me and find an interface at a Goodwill and pay: $32
Click on the pictures below for details or to purchase each item.
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