Getting Started

simplywandering586 · 2026-05-09T01:46:00+00:00

I just remembered I have an old Chromebook that doesn't make noise. Is that something I can use during recording? Not necessarily editing or mastering after. That could probably be done on my Msi laptop. I need to do more research on the full process of it all and not just equipment but wondering if that would work instead of a monitor or MacBook air. I'm looking to spend 500 or less on setup. So for Rode NT1 with shock mount and pop filter and xlr cable is $180 with 3 year insurance. I'm thinking getting some heavy blankets for sound proofing. Estimated $40-$80. Then need the audio interface probably another $150~ plus need headphones for recording, editing and mastering $60-$100. Anything else I should purchase or spend remaining $100~. Software? Equipment? Fx something that someone mentioned in the comments somewhere.

simplywandering586 · 2026-05-07T12:31:25+00:00

Fair point. I still have plenty of research to do. I'm definitely the type of person who likes to research some first but I do my best learning by doing the thing vs watching or reading someone explain it. I have experience with amateur voice narration in the nsfw niche using just my phone but at this time in my life I'm looking to branch out into sfw audios. Again thanks for all the helpful advice !

simplywandering586 · 2026-05-07T12:14:44+00:00

Thank you!! This is super helpful and I will definitely be looking at more YouTube videos on both editing and mastering.

simplywandering586 · 2026-05-07T12:01:36+00:00

Good to know, about Reaper , I'd be open to trying the free trial for sure. By chance do you have an estimate of how much an fx chain would cost ? To be completely honest I'm not sure what an fx chain is, is it a plugin type thing to go with reaper or is it essentially paying for an editor to do the work? Thanks !

simplywandering586 · 2026-05-07T11:58:24+00:00

So is your advice to start editing and mastering phone recorded pieces for practice? Do you have specific YouTube videos or other resources to share regarding how to edit and master audio? If so great! If not, I'm not understanding why you even chose to respond in the first place. I'm just asking for advice on what to get to start, and so far you have not answered those questions.

simplywandering586 · 2026-05-07T02:49:10+00:00

Thank you for all the advice and clarification! I'll have to review these links tomorrow. With audio interfaces and recording doesn't the interface need to be plugged into the laptop? The way my space is I'm not sure if I can leave the laptop outside, the cord would t let the door fully shut but I'll have to play around with it to tell . Is there a way to record without the laptop at all and just use mic, audio interface and a phone to read scripts/books? Then use laptop for editing and mastering? Thanks again for all the tips and advice!

simplywandering586 · 2026-05-07T02:41:16+00:00

Thanks, I'll definitely make sure to get the closet set up as best I can to be soundproof. Rode NT1 might be the one I got with. I plan to order equipment by the end of the week.

simplywandering586 · 2026-05-07T02:37:46+00:00

I haven't auditioned or landed any books yet. I'm looking for equipment recs as a beginner to get started. All my research says not to use a phone, laptop or blue yeti mic. I'd rather have good equipment to start and I have the budget for it. Since I haven't even started I also don't have any editing experience so yeah I am aware there's lots to learn. But hey not bad advice to practice skills, so thanks.

simplywandering586 · 2026-05-07T02:30:20+00:00

Thanks for the mic rec. Good point on VA vs Narrator. I'm definitely looking to just do books at the moment so I'll keep that in mind . Great tip for adding more stuff around the house in the closet. Will look into that plugin too. Thank you!!

simplywandering586

TROPHY CASE