Hardware

This section is dedicated to the kinds of hardware involved in recording. This is not a complete list, just some of the basics that have been encountered throughout this project that have applications in the classroom and for basic recordings.

The purpose of this site is not to tell you specifically what to purchase. The purpose of this site is to show you what is out there so that you can choose for yourself what will work best for you. There will be examples of what has been used, explored, and what others may recommend, but the point of this site is to give you the tools you need to get started and thinking about what might be best for you.

Everyone is different, and not everyone will have the same needs and resources, so here is a sample form (Google Doc, PDF here) that can help you in determining what you should purchase. Filling out this form can help you find the best deals when using an internet search or when going into a store and exploring options there.

It is best to avoid cheap or easily damaged equipment, things that are out-of-date, and are too complicated to use. If the manufacturer doesn’t make it anymore, it will be hard to replace, and if you rely solely on one piece of old equipment to get you through recording, you might have to replace more than just the one thing to keep going if it is damaged.

It also helps to make sure that you know what kind of "kit" you are putting together so you don’t buy something that won’t connect to or doesn’t go along specifically with what you’re doing. It is also good to find sources on how to operate it in case you need some sort of refresher after a summer break or want to show someone else in case you would like some help with operating your recording equipment.