Are you building a home recording studio on a budget? Luckily, there are plenty of options these days to record and produce high-quality music without setting foot in a professional studio!

If you can spend up to $200 on each crucial component of your home studio, here’s a list of the best budget-friendly gear for music producers. Whether you’re a novice or a pro looking for a portable recording setup, below you’ll find cheap studio equipment that can help you bring professional music to life.

Best Studio Monitors Under $200

While exceptional microphones and recording equipment are crucial, making good quality music is also about being able to mix and master it professionally before release. In order to do that, you need professional studio monitors. These speakers can help you refine your tracks, analyzing the frequency spectrum and making sure your song will sound great, no matter how and where people listen to it.

Studio monitors can be extremely expensive, but here we'll only talk about the most affordable ones that can still provide you with professional results.

PreSonus Eris E4.5

I’ve owned a pair of Eris E4.5 for years and couldn’t be happier with the way they sound. They offer a balanced sound profile, with crisp mids and lows decent enough even without a subwoofer, which makes them perfect for small studio rooms.

I saw professional composers working in the field of videogames and TV using them in their home studios, so rest assured they’ll serve you well. With 50 watts of power, these tiny speakers offer an impressively rich sound, with the 4.5-inch woven composite low-frequency transducer and 1-inch silk-dome tweeter blending seamlessly to create clear soundscapes.

The rear-panel acoustic tuning knobs are a great way to adjust the high and low frequencies based on the room’s acoustics. This model also features Bluetooth connectivity, but also comes with balanced TRS outputs and RCA jacks.

Pros:

• Flat frequency response.
• Onboard EQ controls.
• Affordable.

  Cons:

• Lack of low frequency.
• Not loud enough for larger rooms.

Mackie CR4-X 4

As far as I’m concerned, these are the cheapest, decent-quality monitors you can get. At less than $100, they’re truly a bargain.

The sound quality is impressive for the price: clear highs and deep lows that can work well when creating music, playing video games, or even listening to music on your office sound system.

They’re not wireless monitors but come with RCA to 1/8” and 1/8” to 1/8” cables, so you can easily connect them to your computer or other devices. Finally, the front-panel volume control and headphone output give producers and audio engineers the tools to get started in the world of music production.

Pros:

• The cheapest pair of decent monitors you can find.
• Good sound representation.

  Cons:

• Build quality is not great.

ADAM Audio T5V

These are for those who are willing to spend a bit more to get something truly special.

The ADAM Audio T5V are iconic studio monitors, and for all the right reasons. The 5-inch polypropylene low-frequency driver reaches down to 45Hz, while the U-ART ribbon tweeter offers clear highs up to 25kHz. The rear-firing bass reflex port also helps these magnificent near-field monitors reach a fuller sound.

The T5V offers one of the broadest sweet spots I’ve ever come across, thanks to a specially designed waveguide that makes positioning in a space as easy as it can be. With a maximum SPL of 106dB, they can get really loud!

Adam is known for its exceptional build quality, and the T5V is no exception, with a compact design that fits well in small control rooms without issues. Finally, for those who need a cavernous bass, the T5V works perfectly with ADAM Audio's Sub8 or Sub7.

I can't recommend this speaker enough. The T5V offers an unmatched combination of performance, detail, and affordability. You won’t regret the investment.

Pros:

• Rich and accurate soundscape.
• Broad sweet spot.
• Sturdy and reliable.

  Cons:

• More expensive than the other options on this list.

Best Studio Headphones Under $200

Just like studio monitors, headphones are super important for your creative output. Most producers craft their tunes using headphones, which gives them the freedom to produce music on the go, and make adjustments whenever the inspiration strikes.

What you need is a pair of studio headphones that provide clarity and transparency, while making the listening experience as enjoyable as it can be. That's because you might end up using them for an extended period of time, so you want to avoid ear fatigue or any other kind of discomfort while working on your music.

Here are the ones I've used over the years.

Sony MDR-7506

Another piece of gear I’ve owned for a decade. Some people love them, others hate them, but there’s no doubt the Sony MDR-7506 have been crucial in mixing and producing some of the best releases of the past decades.

I challenge you to find a recording studio that doesn’t have a pair of these closed-back headphones lying around. They deliver impressive sound isolation, which is great for monitoring, recording, and deep listening sessions. They’re also very comfortable, with thick earcups and a fully adjustable headband that fits perfectly, regardless of head size.

Their sound transparency is the stuff of legends. The 40mm driver, gold connectors and oxygen-free copper cables bring to life a cohesive and realistic soundscape, which is precisely what you need to make professional-sounding music.

All this for less than $100. What else is there to say? 

Pros:

• A staple in the music and movie industry for decades.
• Well-known clarity and transparency.
• They’ll last a lifetime.

  Cons:

• Ear pads wear off easily.
• Extremely realistic sound (so not for casual listening sessions).

Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO

I played a gig recently and one of the performers went on stage with a pair of DT 990 PRO. Since I always heard great things about them, I decided to give them a try and test them on my own live set for the night. I was so impressed that I decided to get a pair for myself!

First of all, the sound feels incredibly natural and transparent. Their open-back design offers a vibrant sound that feels three-dimensional and cohesive. Despite the lack of isolation, the bass is deep and full, which makes them a good option also for casual listening sessions.

They’re the most comfortable headphones I’ve ever tried. The headband is low-pressure, and the soft earpads are made from viscose that can be easily replaced.

Comfortable, durable, and transparent, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO are the best open-back headphones you can get if you can spend up to $200.

Pros:

• Spacious and detailed soundstage.
• Comfortable.

  Cons:

• Open-back design isn't ideal for noisy environments.
• They lack low-end punch.

Audio-Technica ATH-M40x

The ATH-M40x headphones are a great option if you’re looking for the cheapest, good-quality headphones on the market.

These are sturdy cans, and while they do feel a bit plasticky, they’re not noisy in any way. With a frequency response range of 15Hz to 24kHz, they deliver a good quality soundscape that’ll work well when producing and practicing music.

The 40mm neodymium drivers provide a flat frequency response ideal for mixing, and the closed-back design gives you excellent sound isolation and prevents any outside noise from interfering with your production sessions.

The earpads are comfortable and resistant. Plus, the collapsible design and swivel earcups make the ATH-M40x easy to store and carry around. Another great feature is the detachable cable, should you ever need to replace it.

While they have their flaws, for $79, you can’t get anything better than the ATH-M40x.

Pros:

• Affordable price.
• Easy to carry around.
• Transparent enough for music production.

  Cons:

• They usually fit tight.
• Plasticky feel.

Best Audio Interfaces Under $200

An audio interface is the core of a recording studio; as such, it needs to be reliable, and capable of delivering audio recordings that meet the industry standards. Luckily, most interfaces meet these standards, but there are still a lot of differences in sound quality and price when it comes to this crucial home studio component.

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2

I’m always reluctant to praise something everyone already knows is great. I feel that my role as a music writer should be to highlight unknown brands or models that offer great value for money. Yet the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 audio interface deserves to bask in the glory of its success.

At $199, the Scarlett 2i2 offers everything you need to get started in the world of music production, and its 4th Generation offers an impressive upgrade, including updated microphone preamps, high-quality AD/DA conversion, and 69dB of usable gain.

It comes packed with features designed to improve your recordings. The built-in Air Mode enhances the high-end presence and makes the sound more engaging. The Auto Gain function adjusts your levels automatically. Clip Safe prevents distortion by managing gain levels. And the Dynamic Gain Halos offers instant feedback on your input and output levels.

The 4th Generation comes with an extraordinary software bundle, including subscriptions to Avid Pro Tools Artist and Ableton Live Lite, plus the Focusrite Hitmaker Expansion, which includes Auto-Tune and Addictive Keys.

Pros:

• High-quality preamps.
• Easy to use.
• Impressive software bundle.

  Cons:

• Only 2 inputs.
• No MIDI connectivity.

Behringer UMC404HD

Another great piece of gear that’s been part of my studio setup for years.

The Behringer U-Phoria UMC404HD comes with four inputs and four outputs: a rare feature for an audio interface under $200. Plus, it comes with Midas-designed microphone preamps and 24-bit/192kHz converters that offer impressive high quality recordings.

Most people love it because of its direct, zero-latency monitoring function, but it’s also the sound quality that makes it stand out: recordings feel clear and realistic, inputs are reliable and versatile, whether you record acoustic guitars, drums, synths, or anything else. I’ve had a U-Phoria UMC404HD at home for 4 years, and I never felt the need to upgrade.

Pros:

• Four XLR/TRS combo inputs.
• Affordable.
• Sturdy design.

  Cons:

• It tends to enhance high-end frequencies

UA Volt 2

This is a great option for producers on a budget looking for a vintage sound. The audio interface features two high-quality microphone preamps and input metering to manage volume levels.

The UA Volt 2 comes with a Vintage Preamp Mode, which recreates a warm sound reminiscent of classic tube preamps. This feature gives you full control over tone shaping, to make your recordings sound polished while giving them a timeless sound signature.

Despite the vintage feel of the sound it records, the UA Volt 2 also offers plenty of modern features, with MIDI I/O for synths and controllers, and an excellent software bundle, including UA’s LUNA DAW (digital audio workstation) and a collection of crucial plug-ins and virtual instruments.

Pros:

• Vintage preamp mode.
• Sturdy and compact design.

  Cons:

• Basic in terms of onboard controls.

Best MIDI Controllers Under $200

If your music production workflow involves MIDI, then you need a MIDI keyboard or sequencer. These days, options are endless when it comes to these versatile devices, so it really comes down to your needs and budget.

If you can spend up to $200, these are the MIDI sequencers I'd recommend, mostly because of their ease of use, wide compatibility, and customization options.

Nektar Impact LX49+

I own the 25+ of the Impact series, which I use when traveling abroad and can’t carry a lot of gear with me, and I absolutely love it. Its bigger brother, the Nektar Impact LX49+, offers the same features but on a larger keyboard.

The LX49+ comes with 49 velocity-sensitive keys, four adjustable velocity curves, and three fixed velocities. It’s highly compatible with most DAWs: over the years that I’ve used mine, it never failed to start working as soon as I plugged it in, regardless of operative systems or DAWs used. The labeled faders and knobs are easy to use and incredibly sensitive, and the convenient Play/Pause/Rec buttons are great if you don’t want to look at your computer screen at all times.

Finally, it comes with Bitwig 8-Track DAW software, so even if you’re just getting started, you’ll have everything you need to create professional-sounding music.

Pros:

• Excellent DAW mapping.
• Lightweight and portable.

  Cons:

• Not the best build quality.

Akai MPC Studio

The Akai MPC Studio is a sampling groove workstation that gives the feel of traditional drum machines’ hardware and the flexibility of seamless DAW integration.

This ultra-portable controller comes with 16 velocity-sensitive pads and a touch strip controller. The pads are sensitive and big enough to perform live with them, but it’s in the recording studio that this MIDI sequencer can revolutionize your workflow.

The bundled MPC2 software comes with 128 tracks for sequencing and sample manipulation. With over 100 built-in instruments and effects, the MPC Studio can be used across styles and genres. Finally, it can host VST and AU plug-ins, opening up endless creative possibilities for producers and beatmakers alike.

Pros:

• High sensitivity.
• Portable design.
• Useful AKAI software bundle.

  Cons:

• Not user friendly.

Novation Launchkey 37 Mk4

Just a little bit over the $200 mark, the Launchkey 37 Mk3 is perhaps the best option for Ableton users.

It comes with velocity-sensitive keys that feel great to play, and it has performance pads that support polyphonic aftertouch. On Ableton, you can customize it extensively, as it comes with 30 different scales and an enhanced "DAW Transport Mode" to control and sync music in seconds. With the customizable chord modes and an onboard arpeggiator, creating complex musical patterns becomes a walk in the park.

For Ableton users, the Novation Launchkey 37 Mk4 is the best you can get for the budget. Intuitive and extremely versatile, it can take your workflow to a whole new level.

Pros:

• Ableton Live integration.
• Creative chord and scale modes.

  Cons:

• For other DAWs, there are better options at this price.

The Best Microphones Under $200

Finally, the microphone is what will turn your ideas into songs. Whether you're a guitarist, pianist, or singer, a high-quality microphone is what you need to make your music resonate with others.

Getting a professional-sounding microphone at a reasonable price is no trivial task, but luckily, not an impossible one.

Audio-Technica AT2020

The Audio-Technica AT2020 delivers a lot, considering it costs just $79! The build quality is exceptional for the price, so you should definitely consider it if you travel a lot with your recording gear.

The cardioid pattern is ideal for recording vocals and instruments without picking up background noise. The medium diaphragm brings to life a warm and rich tone, while the frequency response is balanced and natural regardless of the source, from vocals to acoustic instruments.

The Audio-Technica AT2020 features standard XLR cable connectivity, and requires +48V phantom power to work. All in all, if you can’t spend more than $80 on a studio mic, the AT2020 is a fantastic option.

Pros:

• Clear and natural sound.
• Durable and reliable build.
• Excellent value for the price.

  Cons:

• Prone to feedback hiss when used in environments with no acoustic treatment.
• Phantom power is required.

AKG P220

The AKG P220 is an exceptional large-diaphragm condenser microphone that offers everything for both pro and amateur producers. It beats me how it can cost less than $150!

There's so much to say about this mic. It has a cardioid pickup pattern and a frequency response of 20Hz-20kHz and a maximum SPL of 155dB (135dB without the pad). The switchable 20dB attenuation pad and bass roll-off at 300Hz are fantastic features that further enhance the mic's versatility. The sensitivity at 20 mV/Pa coupled with a signal-to-noise ratio of 78dB (A-weighted) means you get professional-grade recordings without unwanted noise.

In terms of performance, the AKG P220 delivers deep lows, crisp highs, and an overall rich and detailed soundscape that works well for podcasters, singers, acoustic instruments, and more. For anyone looking for an all-in-one solution for their recording needs, the AKG P220 might be your best bet.

Pros:

• Warm and immersive sound.
• Built-in pad and bass cut.

  Cons:

• None at this price.

Shure SM57

This mic is a legend. Of the countless microphones out there, the Shure SM57 truly stands the test of time: from recording studios to live music gear, the SM57 has been the workhorse of countless audio professionals across the globe, since it came out in 1965.

The SM57 is the most versatile microphone you can find. I saw engineers using it to record snare drums, synthesizers, guitar cabinets, vocal tracks, and anything else, really. Its signature frequency response and natural presence enhance the clarity of vocals and lead instruments, crispness to percussions, and a bite to electric guitar amps that few other microphones can match.

The SM57’s cardioid polar pattern provides reliable off-axis sound rejection; it minimizes feedback by picking up less of the ambient sound, which translates into a greater gain before feedback. If you’re looking for a reliable, versatile, and tough microphone for your home studio setup, the Shure SM57 is a must-have.

Pros:

• A legend in audio production.
• Unbeatable build quality.
• Works well in most contexts.

  Cons:

• Not as sensitive as condenser mics.

Final Thoughts

I hope this guide will help you find all the recording equipment you need to make it in the music industry! In this day and age, you can find great gear at a reasonable price: all you have to do is do research and look for the best value for money you can find. The products in this article should help you get started.

Making music and bringing great recordings to life is now something most people can afford, so long as they find the best studio monitors, audio interfaces, microphones, and DAWs for their budget.

Good luck, and stay creative!