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. Whether it's voiceover work, music production, or live broadcasting, Ian's setup is optimized for quality and ease. With so many great options available today, building a studio that fits your workflow and style is easier than ever. This page breaks down the gear and essentials that power Ian's studio, with direct links to explore each category.
Microphones
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 - great for podcasts and vocals, especially in less-than-perfect acoustic spaces - and condenser mics like the Rode NT1, which delivers crisp, detailed recordings with a silky top end. For high-end sessions, the legendary Neumann U87 brings unmatched clarity and warmth, making it a go-to for professional-grade vocal work.
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.
Shop the best studio microphones for recording vocals and instruments
Headphones
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 Bose QuietComfort 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.
Each pair is chosen for its specific role in the workflow. Closed-back designs help isolate sound during recording, while open-back models are used for mastering and critical listening. Comfort is key, especially during long sessions, so padded ear cups and adjustable headbands are a must. With detachable cables, foldable frames, and solid build quality, Ian's headphone setup is ready for both studio precision and everyday flexibility.
Discover the best studio headphones for mixing and mastering
Studio Essentials
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. These tools ensure every vocal take is captured with warmth and clarity. His vocal booth - custom-built with insulated panels, acoustic foam, and LED lighting - is a standout feature. For those curious about the build, Ian shares the full construction details in this PDF guide.
Other essentials include adjustable boom arms, shock mounts, pop filters, and cable organizers - all selected for function and form. Acoustic foam panels and bass traps help control reflections and low-end buildup, creating a clean recording environment. LED lighting and ergonomic furniture make long sessions more comfortable, while USB hubs and power conditioners keep everything connected and protected. Even mic stands and monitor risers are chosen with care, ensuring stability and optimal placement. These essentials may seem minor, but they're the backbone of a studio that's built for efficiency and creativity.
PCs and Macs
Ian's workflow blends the best of both worlds. While he recommends the sleek and efficient 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 a solid choice - reliable, upgradeable, and perfect for audio production and web development. For editing and mastering, Ian uses Adobe Audition and Audacity, two powerful tools that cover everything from multitrack sessions to quick waveform edits.
Whether you're mixing tracks, coding layouts, or curating content, the right machine makes all the difference. 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.
TVs
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, making it ideal for working inside a DAW where screen real estate is everything. For more compact setups, the Amazon Fire TV 50" 4-Series 4K Smart TV delivers great visuals and smart features at a practical size. And if you're after premium OLED clarity, the Sony BRAVIA XR A95K OLED TV (65-Inch) offers stunning contrast and color depth - perfect for both editing and entertainment.
Audio matters too, and the Sonos Beam Gen 2 Soundbar adds immersive sound to your studio or living space. After a long day of mixing, designing, or curating, kicking back with a big screen and rich audio is more than luxury - it's part of the creative cycle. Whether you're reviewing visual content, editing timelines, or just watching your favorite series, a high-quality TV setup supports both productivity and relaxation.
Discover top-rated TVs for studios, editing, and entertainment