Audio Interface
You'll only need 1 of these. Both below are great.
Focusrite Scarlett 2i2
Focusrite has great build quality and I love the Air feature on the preamps.
I love the Presonus 24c because it has a knob that switches between the inputs and the playback which is very helpful. It also comes with a free copy of PreSonus Studio One, which I use for Mixing and Mastering.
Headphones
I compose and mix most of the time on headphones. I mainly use speakers for translatability.
KRK KNS 8402
I still use my KRK 8400s to this day. KNS 8402 is the updated version. Sennhieser, Audio Technica, are also well known brands, but are more costly. No matter what you get, what you’re looking for is something with a closed back for recording. Open back headphones by these same manufacturers are used primarily for mixing.
Microphones and Accessories
The SM58 is a standard Vocal Dynamic microphone, Audix i5 is what I generally use along with a large diaphragm Dynamic (Electro Voice RE320). If you're just starting I would go with the SM58
Shure SM58
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Audix i5
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Triton FetHead
The FetHead is a phantom powered In-line preamp (For Dynamic Mics only!). When you attach it to any of the dynamic microphones and activate your Phantom power you can increase the volume without getting gain.
Shure SM7B
I recommend the SM7B over the RE320 because the SM7B’s design has a built in shock mount. Large Diaphragm Dynamics are generally used for deeper voices and kick drums and require substantial gain from your interface’s preamp hence the Triton FetHead
Hosa HMIC-005 REAN XLR3F to XLR3M (5 Feet)
Length will depend on your setup. Really any professional or boutique brand of cable will do (Live Wire, Mogami, ProCo, Runway, Warm) I've never had problems with Hosa or Livewire, or Runway.
OnStage MS7701B Tripod Microphone Boom Stand
Standard mic stand. Will serve you well if you're starting out. K&M and Tama also make great stands but they're much more expensive.
Rosewell Audio Mini k47
THIS IS A CONDENSER MICROPHONE!
I wouldn't recommend this one to get started but there is a difference to using these vs dynamics. Very sensitive, don’t need a lot of gain, but also pick up everything in the room.
Accessories
Mastering Live Shortcuts Mousepad
Have all the essential Ableton Live shortcuts at your fingertips! I personally designed this super helpful mousepad based off the digital version I currently offer for free.
MIDI Control
Novation Launchkey Mini
Nice mini keyboard to get started, integrates with Ableton Live, also comes with a bunch of software.
Native Instruments Komplete Kontrol A49 Controller Keyboard
Great keybed, awesome included instruments. What more could you want?
Oh yeah, Komplete Start is Free and comes with some great effects and instruments. No purchase necessary!
Monitor Speakers
Speakers are not required for starting out but you will want to check your mixes on other sources (i.e. Car, Phone, Bluetooth Speaker) to see how it translates. Monitor/Speaker size depends a lot on the size and shape of your room so do your research or talk to someone before buying.
ADAM A7X
My workhorse for mixing and checking. Phenominal detail and clarity. You see these a lot in studios in place of Yamaha NS10s
Edifier S1000 MkII
What I use personally for my record player. Well balanced Bass, spectacular mid range detail, not too harsh. Perfect High End Audio speakers for casual and professional use.
Record Players
For those of you who like listening to analog records
Audio Technical
Well reviewed as the best beginner turntable. Includes a dust cover as well as a button to raise an lower the tone arm all in a classic design
