If you’re just starting out on your home studio recording or podcasting journey, or you want to upgrade the gear you already have, it may be advantageous to invest in an audio interface bundle or kit. This way, you can save a step or two while also possibly saving a little cash. So, we’ve recommended a list of our favorite recording equipment combos to help you get started. Additionally, if your recording needs are very basic, we’ve included a couple of interesting all-in-one solutions that may streamline your setup even further.
Audio Interface and Mic Kits
Wallet-Friendly Kits
A great starter package for singer-songwriters and bedroom producers is the Focusrite Scarlett Solo and Audio-Technica AT2020 Mic Kit. Focusrite makes fantastic audio interfaces for the price point, and the Scarlet Solo is no exception. It’s very simple to use, offers a low-noise and natural sounding preamp, and sports upgraded 24-bit / 192kHz AD/DA (Analog to Digital and Digital to Analog) converters that yield impressively professional results. The ¼” Hi-Z instrument input lets you capture a microphone and a guitar at the same time, while the selectable Air circuit adds extra clarity and brightness to vocals.
You’ll also find a Loopback feature that lets podcasters and streamers record other audio sources from their computer by using the unit’s virtual stereo inputs, which can be selected in your DAW as signal sources.
Moving onto the condenser microphone, the AT2020 is a budget-friendly home studio classic that can match the performance of many higher priced mics. It has even been used by huge artists, like Billie Eilish, to create some of their best-selling albums. It offers a wide and linear frequency response that makes it suitable for capturing a variety of vocal styles and instruments. Since the AT2020 is a solid-state condenser with an XLR output, you’ll have to engage the phantom power on the Scarlett Solo to sufficiently drive the signal.
In addition to this impressive interface and microphone combo, you’ll get a basic mic stand and mic cable, pop-filter and set of headphones. The only thing missing from this package is an external shock mount, which we do recommend for a clean recording.
Another affordable, yet respectable recording kit is RODE’s AI-1 Audio Interface and NT1 Microphone bundle. The interface has a no-frills design and features only one mic/instrument input. But it’s well built, and like the Scarlett Solo featured above, it can operate in zero-latency monitoring mode. As a result, you won’t run into any delay while recording, which can be an annoying issue, especially when working with many effects-heavy tracks or with less efficient computer systems.
Rode’s NT1 microphone delivers a pleasingly silky and warm sounding profile. It also boasts an incredibly low self-noise of 4 dB and can handle high sound pressure levels of up to 132 dB. Like the AT2020, the NT1 is built to handle a wide range of applications, from vocal and instrument recording to podcasting and voice-over work.
The kit also includes a pop filter and shock mount for the microphone. All you’ll need is a mic stand and your computer software to get started.
Podcasting Kits
If you’re a podcasting duo looking for a one-stop solution to your recording needs, we recommend throwing down for the Focusrite Vocaster Two 2-Person Podcasting Kit. The slick Vocaster Two interface is tailor made for podcasting applications. Featuring two mic inputs and two headphone outputs, both host and guest will be able to control their gain settings and headphone volume. And if you’re unsure of the appropriate grain level for your voice, you can make use of the Vocaster’s Auto Gain function, which will automatically set your level before you record.
The Vocaster Two also takes calls. Hook up your phone to the unit’s Bluetooth connection (or plug it into the TRRS port) and you’ll be able to invite remote guests as well as bring in other types of audio from your phone. Additionally, the Vocaster is equipped with two sets of stereo loopbacks, allowing you to stream virtually any audio from your computer, such as sound effects, intros and outros, music beds and more.
But let’s not forget about the mics. The kit comes equipped with two Audio-Technica AT2040 dynamic podcasts mics, which not only deliver a warm and robust vocal tone but also do a great job at minimizing background noise and room reflections. The mics also incorporate a shock mount, as well as an internal pop filter, which should help reduce plosives created by those hard consonants, like ‘p’ and ‘b’.
Finally, the kit comes with two desktop mic stands, two mic cables and two pairs of headphones. Just connect your computer, choose your DAW and you’re ready to start recording.
High-End Kits
If you’re looking to upgrade your current setup, or you’re a beginner who prefers to start with the best gear on the market, check out the RME Babyface Pro FS and Neumann TLM 102 Mic kit. This kit merges an uber-clean sounding interface with a world-class mic known for its pristine clarity and touch of treble boost for enhanced brilliance and vocal presence.
The legendary Babyface Pro FS interface features two XLR microphone inputs and XLR main outputs, two line and Hi-Z instrument inputs, along with 3.5mm and quarter-inch headphone outputs. In addition to the USB port and optional DC power input, you’ll also find an optical in/out, as well as a MIDI port to support a MIDI In/Out breakout cable.
This model also features several upgrades to the previous Babyface Pro, including a switch that adds a direct way to reduce your output level, which is handy for sensitive active monitors and helps to avoid distortion/overloads. The clocking has also been improved to provide ultralow jitter which is that unpleasant distortion or clicking that occurs when the clock signal drifts, causing variations in length between samples.
In addition to the interface and mic (shock mount included), you’ll also get a pair of fancy Neumann closed-back studio headphones, as well as an XLR cable and mic stand. However, even though the Neumann TLM 102 features an internal pop shield, we still recommend buying a pop filter to further help minimize plosives.
All-In-One Mic with Interface Solutions
If your recording needs are particularly simple or if you want a more compact and portable alternative to a separate microphone and dedicated audio interface setup, the following options may also be worth thinking about:
For singer-songwriters on a tight budget or those looking to save some desk space, consider a microphone with a built-in interface. The Samson G Track Pro is not just a USB mic, but also acts as an audio interface for your instruments. With a 1/4-inch mono input, you can record your vocals and guitar performances simultaneously, either on a single track or on separate tracks for postproduction editing and mixing.
Another great option in this style is the Austrian Audio MiCreator Studio. It not only flaunts a cute and compact aesthetic, but also allows you to directly connect and record instruments. Or, if you’re a solo podcaster but want to add a guest, you can connect to a second microphone.
The MiCreator Studio also just sounds good. It features top class audio conversion and a mic that provides a natural and open quality while also minimizing unwanted noise thanks to its cardioid polar pattern. Use the One Knob Jogwheel to control volume and headphone monitoring and manage your signal with the two gain settings. It’s a perfect all-in-one package, especially for creators or vocalists on the go.
If you’re primarily a vocalist or plan to solely record virtual instruments and sounds via a midi controller, take a look at the Axino from Antelope. Although it may just look like a simple USB mic, it’s actually a bundle of microphones; the Axion skillfully emulates the sound profiles and performance of a plethora of classic mics used in professional recording studios, such as the Neumann 67 and 47 FET, the AKG C12 and more. Adding to this virtual package of mics, you will also get some great software, including the sounds of famous preamps, compressors, EQ and more.
But one of the best aspects of this mic model is the killer audio interface. In fact, the Axino employs the same top-tier technology as Antelope Audio’s most pricey and highly regarded models.
For more information about the products listed, including additional features, specs, and highlights, be sure to check out our detailed product pages. Or drop us a line below, and we’ll do our best to answer all your comments and questions.
