Studio
Welcome to Ian's home studio - a space designed for creativity, clarity, and connection. Built with accessible gear and a passion for audio, this studio proves you don't need a massive budget to produce professional results.
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Microphones are the heart of any studio, and Ian's setup reflects a balance of versatility and precision. Whether recording voiceovers, hosting live broadcasts, or capturing ambient sound, the right mic makes all the difference. Ian's collection includes dynamic workhorses like the Shure SM7B, condenser mics like the Rode NT1, and the legendary Neumann U87 .
Each mic is chosen for its tonal character and reliability, with shock mounts and pop filters ensuring clean takes. Placement and acoustics also play a role: Ian's studio uses strategic foam panels and mic arms to reduce reflections and enhance clarity. From podcasting to production, the mic setup is built to adapt to any creative need.
Monitoring is everything when it comes to audio, and Ian's headphone selection is built for accuracy, comfort, and versatility. For studio work, the Audio-Technica ATH-M30x Headphones offer a reliable, balanced sound profile that's ideal for tracking and editing. They're lightweight, durable, and tuned for clarity across the frequency spectrum. When traveling, Ian reaches for the the Bose Quiet Comfort Headphones, which deliver excellent noise cancellation and a smooth listening experience - perfect for flights and mobile sessions. For casual listening, the Apple AirPods 4 Wireless Earbuds are a go-to, combining convenience with surprisingly rich sound for recreational music.
Closed-back designs help isolate sound during recording, while open-back models are used for mastering and critical listening.
Beyond the headline gear, it's the little things that keep a studio running smoothly. Ian's workspace includes audio interfaces like the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 and the ART Tube MP/C Compact Tube Microphone Preamp, both chosen for their clean signal paths and reliable phantom power. His vocal booth - custom-built with insulated panels, acoustic foam, and LED lighting - is a standout feature. Full construction details here.
Other essentials include adjustable boom arms, shock mounts, pop filters, cable organizers, acoustic foam panels, bass traps, LED lighting, ergonomic furniture, USB hubs, power conditioners, mic stands, and monitor risers - all selected for function and form. These essentials are the backbone of a studio built for efficiency and creativity.
Ian's workflow blends the best of both worlds. While he recommends the sleek Apple Macbook Air M4 2025 for portability and macOS-based creative tools, his main setup runs on a PC for maximum flexibility and performance. The Dell OptiPlex 7010 Desktop is reliable, upgradeable, and perfect for audio production and web development. For editing and mastering, Ian uses Adobe Audition and Audacity, covering everything from multitrack sessions to quick waveform edits.
Macs offer streamlined design and optimized software integration, while PCs provide modularity and raw power. Ian's setup reflects a practical balance - mobile when needed, and robust when it counts.
A big screen isn't just for movie nights - it can transform your editing workflow. Ian recommends the Sony 85-Inch BRAVIA XR X90L 4K TV for its expansive display and crisp resolution. For more compact setups, the Amazon Fire TV 50" 4-Series 4K Smart TV delivers great visuals at a practical size. For premium OLED clarity, the Sony BRAVIA XR A95K OLED TV (65-Inch) offers stunning contrast and color depth.
Audio matters too; the Sonos Beam Gen 2 Soundbar adds immersive sound to your studio or living space. High-quality TV setups support both productivity and relaxation, whether reviewing visual content, editing timelines, or watching your favorite series.
Home Essentials for Home Studios
Your studio doesn't end at the booth door. The environment around it shapes creativity, focus, and workflow. A space that balances productivity and relaxation can turn a good session into a great one. For comfort and stress relief, consider the A860 Full Body Massage Chair. Having one nearby helps reset your mind during long recording or editing days, keeping energy high and ideas flowing.
A quality espresso machine also adds fuel and ritual to your workflow. The Breville Oracle Jet Espresso Machine delivers barista-level coffee at the press of a button.
Don't underestimate stepping outside. Patio gear provides a fresh change of scenery that sparks ideas and offers downtime. The Solo Stove Yukon 2.0 Smokeless Fire Pit creates a cozy, inspiring spot for brainstorming, unwinding, or simply enjoying a break under the open sky.