We’re living in an incredible era for sound production, because no longer are audio engineers and producers chained to a mixing board inside of a studio if they want to record professional-quality audio. 

In fact, thanks to the introduction of tools like digital audio workstations (DAWs) that can operate on everything from laptops to iPhones, professional-quality microphones that can fit in your pocket, and remote collaboration tools, there’s virtually no limit to when and where you can create. 

However, that doesn’t mean that recording outside of a studio doesn’t come with some hurdles. We’ll cover some of the most common challenges of working in a remote recording studio, and what tools you can use to overcome them.

What is a remote recording studio?

A remote recording studio is essentially any area you set up for recording audio that isn’t a traditional, purpose-built recording studio. This could be your home office, your bedroom, or the middle of an expansive field for that matter. 

As long as you have a microphone and a recording device, it’s a remote recording studio. An internet connection helps too.

Four common challenges of recording music remotely (and solutions)

There are several common challenges that nearly all musicians and music producers will face when recording music outside of a traditional studio. Thankfully, tools have been developed to address nearly all of these challenges, which we’ll cover as well. 

Challenge #1: Recording studio-quality audio without a sound booth

The number one issue that most people will face when recording remotely is getting clean, high-quality audio without the aid of things like a soundproof recording booth and a large mixing board. However, with the right tools, you can record studio-quality audio with minimal distortions no matter where you are. 

Solution: a high-quality microphone.

Arguably the most important piece of equipment you need for a successful remote recording session is a high-quality microphone. The better the quality of the recording, the more possibilities you have to clean up little imperfections and create a polished sound. 

Here are a few recommendations for microphones that produce studio-quality sound, while being portable enough to use anywhere:

Elgato Wave:3

This cardioid microphone features a steel grill that protects the receiver, a USB C port, and a headphone jack for audio monitoring. It also includes patented anti-distortion technology that prevents clipping, and can be mounted on a desktop stand or microphone arm.

Price: $120

Blue Yeti USB Microphone

This has become one of the rising stars of remote audio, and for good reason. For under $200, this is one of the most versatile microphones on the market. It features four different pickup patterns, onboard audio controls, and a three-capsule array that produces crisp, clean audio whether you’re recording music or your latest podcast. 

Price: $120

Shure iOS Microphone

This pocket powerhouse allows you to record high-quality audio straight to your iPhone. It features stereo recording and an adjustable joint so you can point the microphone right where you need to. As far as remote audio equipment goes, you can’t get smaller or more convenient than this pint-sized mic. 

Price: $150

Challenge #2: Sharing large project files

Producing professional audio has always come at the cost of producing large data files. When you’re working in the studio and have access to large local storage networks or are able to hand off portable hard drives between collaborators, this is typically not a huge issue. 

However, when you’re working remotely, large file transfers become a huge hurdle, as most email clients and basic file sharing services can’t accommodate larger files. 

Solution: A cloud-based file sharing service

Filestage

Similar to Frame.io, Filestage allows for remote filesharing and feedback on creative projects from anywhere in the world. 

It is heavily focused on making the review and approval process as simple as possible, with a clear and structured file review process that keeps everything organized. No more wondering what stage of client or producer approval your audio project is at! 

Price: Starts at $9 per user, per month.

Google Drive

This old standby has been around for a while for good reason. Nearly everyone has access to a Google Drive account, and it can accommodate large file transfers between accounts. If you’re looking for a way to just share files without any bells and whistles, this is one of our favorite solutions.

‍Price: Free (with additional storage available for purchase).