A microphone's main purpose is to convert sound waves into electrical signals that can be recorded and manipulated.

Condenser microphones are often preferred for studio vocal recording due to their high sensitivity and wide frequency response.

A mixer allows you to control the volume of individual tracks, add effects, and route signals between different devices.

A compressor reduces the dynamic range of the recording by attenuating louder sounds and amplifying softer sounds.

An equalizer allows you to boost or cut specific frequencies in the recording to adjust the overall tone or correct frequency imbalances.

Closed-back headphones are often preferred for monitoring during recording as they provide better isolation from external noise.

A preamp amplifies the weak signal from a microphone to a level that can be processed by other recording equipment.

A limiter prevents clipping and distortion by limiting the maximum amplitude of the recording.

A reverb unit adds ambience, creates a sense of space, and simulates the acoustics of a particular environment.

Condenser microphones are often preferred for recording acoustic guitar due to their high sensitivity and wide frequency response.

A DI box converts an unbalanced signal from a source such as an electric guitar to a balanced signal that can be transmitted over long distances without noise interference.

A noise gate reduces background noise by muting the signal when it falls below a certain threshold.

Dynamic microphones are often preferred for recording drums due to their ability to handle high sound pressure levels.

A de-esser reduces sibilance, which is the harshness caused by excessive high-frequency sounds, particularly in vocals.

A limiter prevents clipping and distortion by limiting the maximum amplitude of the recording.