Build a home studio for under $500

🎧 The Ultimate Audio Setup for Under $500

If you're building a home studio or upgrading your audio workflow, you don't need to spend thousands to get clean, professional sound. I’ve tested and curated a setup that delivers real performance—for under $500. No gimmicks, no fluff—just gear that works.

🔌 Audio Interface: Focusrite Scarlett Solo (4th Gen)

Price: ~$120
Link: Buy on Amazon

Reliable, low-latency, and built like a tank. The Scarlett Solo gives you one XLR input and one instrument input—perfect for solo creators. It also includes Ableton Live Lite and other software to get you started.

🎙 Microphone: Audio-Technica AT2020

Price: ~$100
Link: Buy on Amazon

This condenser mic is a workhorse. Crisp highs, solid mids, and enough low-end to handle vocals and acoustic instruments. You’ll need an XLR cable and phantom power (provided by the Scarlett).

🔊 Studio Monitors: Edifier MR4

Price: ~$130
Link: Buy on Amazon

Flat response, compact footprint, and surprisingly good stereo imaging for the price. These monitors are ideal for mixing, editing, and general playback without coloring your sound.

🎧 Headphones: Audio-Technica ATH-M50X

Price: ~$100–150
Link: Buy on Amazon

Closed-back, comfortable, and accurate. The M50X is a staple in studios worldwide. Great for tracking, editing, and late-night mixing when monitors aren’t an option.

🧠 Bonus: Free DAW Software

When you buy the Scarlett Solo, you get access to Ableton Live Lite, Pro Tools First, and other plugins. That’s a huge value-add for beginners and pros alike.

💡 Final Thoughts

This setup gives you everything you need to record, mix, and produce high-quality audio without breaking the bank. It’s modular too—upgrade the mic or monitors later as your needs evolve. For under $500, this rig punches way above its weight.

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend gear I trust and use myself.