More disk space means you have more storage for project files. They also help reduce latency when recording. Higher specifications like processor speed and ram amount enable you to have more resources to work with multiple tracks and instances of plugin fx. Purpose-built PCs are more 'Futureproof' as well.

You can build a PC with higher specifications than a similarly priced Mac. I prefer building a PC since you get to spec out your hardware and have the ability to upgrade them as you go along. I eventually settled on using a high-spec gaming pc for my needs although many of my contemporaries still swear by their Macs. I have used both for long periods in my career and have an almost equal list of Pros and Cons for both. There is a long-standing debate on using a Mac-based machine vs a Windows PC.

Screen Size at least 15' for Laptops and 21' for Desktops.

1TB Internal or External Storage for Project files/Sample Libraries.

256GB Internal Storage for System Files.

Investing in a new computer with new hardware specified for your needs is better in the long run. While it is possible to still make music on machines older than 3 years, it severely limits your rig's growth by potentially having something go wrong or become obsolete down the line. Getting an up-to-date recording computer is your top priority. Rather, this is for those of us that just want to 'get the thing done' so to speak. This guide is not for those who want to set up a commercial recording studio with an unlimited budget. Don't be discouraged if it turns out that what you need is different from what most 'pro' studios have the best way to improve while not going over budget is by growing your skillset and gear list at the same time. This guide will be for those who want somewhere to start from but be able to scale and specialize when the time comes. These days, the bare minimum anyone needs to have to record is a laptop and a USB Microphone but why stop there? From my experience, a studio can either be built all at once as a complete setup (which can be expensive) or slowly scaled over time where your gear and environment grow with you. This also meant stocking it with thousands of dollars worth of analog gear, a large mixing console, and acoustic treatment. When I first started almost 20 years ago, the words 'home studio' meant dedicating an entire room or two in your house and renovating it to become a pro-level studio. I could scale it larger but I have found my comfort zone and preference in mixing and mastering in the box. Over the years my home studio has evolved from just a laptop-interface-microphone setup to a digital recording setup with electronic drums, and currently to a dedicated digital mixing and mastering rig.

In this guide, I will be showing you how to set up a home recording studio. My name is Raphael Pulgar and I run a home-based studio called Saturnine Audio.

Macbook pro home studio setup