I’m often asked what I use when creating sound fx for video games. The answer… Budget Field Recording Equipment! Cheap budget-friendly gear people. I choose this route because it allows me to be mobile and record anywhere with minimal setup time.
Here’s the low-budget field recording package I use for creating sounds for film and video games.
Tascam DR40 Field Recorder
I chose the Tascam DR-40 recorder because of its features. At the time, I was looking for a step up from the H1 Zoom. I needed a recorder that would allow me to use external microphones and wouldn’t break my pockets.
The DR-40 not only fulfilled that need, but it over-delivered with great recording features, good build, and good audio quality.
I recommend adding shotgun mics to your setup in the future.
Make sure you go with the bundle deal as it’s the same price as the standalone recorder. The bundle offers a lot of accessories as well
- batteries
- memory card
- Stand
- Charger
You can’t pass up on this deal $199 on amazon
Sony MDR7506 Headphones
I’m not a Sony fan, but they did get something right, these headphones. They’ve been an industry standard for years, I’m sure you’ve seen them in many recording studios, you may even have a pair yourself.
I’ve been using this model since 2003. What I like most about them is how crisp and flat the sound is. They’re perfect for field recording work.
Most of the time, you’ll find these for $99, sometimes you can get them for as low as $65 dollars.
Rechargeable Batteries
My DR40 came with batteries in its package, I hope yours does as well, but you’ll run through those very quickly. Purchase good rechargeable batteries and a battery charger this way you’re never stuck in a recording session.
And, they’re less expensive in the long run. I have 1 battery charger and 21 charged AAs ready to go at all times.
The most affordable charger I’ve come accords is the EBL 808, it holds/charges 8 batteries and it’s under $10, might want to get 2 of these. So pick up some rechargeable batteries and you’re in business.
Conclusion On Field Recording Gear
That’s my basic field recording setup with plenty of room for expansion which I will get into in a later post. Even if you never expand, it’s enough to get you in the field and record audio quality enough to make money from.
