-
Step 1
You need a reliable computer. The computer must be able to play sounds. If you can hear music when you play CDs, MP3s or DVDs on your computer, then you'll be fine.
-
Step 2
Purchase a DAW. A Digital Audio Workstation. This is a fancy way of saying recording software. There are many DAWs to choose from. Some cost thousands of dollars, while others are as low as $49. You want a fully functional program that will allow digital recording, editing, and mixing on your home computer or laptop. The good people at PG Music have created an entry level professional DAW called PowerTracks that has many of the bells and whistles found in much more expensive recording suites such as ProTools, Cubase and Sonar.
-
Step 3
Purchase a sound source and a recording device. Recording audio requires a sound source and a capturing device. In this instance, your voice will be the source. It's possible to use the built in microphone of your computer (if you have one). However, you'll probably want to get a condensor stereo microphone with a 1/8" miniplug. These mics are extremely sensitive and very high quality.
-
Step 4
Be sure you have headphones. It's also helpful to use headphones when you record. Again, 1/8" miniplug (like iPod's) work great. Test out a few until you find one that sounds the best.
-
Step 5
Make sure the DAW you purchase records midi. Musical instrument digital interphase. When you record music using midi, you can use up to 16 different tracks that will play back 16 different instruments simultaneously. The sounds you hear on each track are called patches, and can be changed at your discretion.
