Vital Equipment for Singers (from free to intermediate to pro)
I started singing more seriously about 5 years ago. And since then, I’ve tried a lot of different tools – some helpful, some not so much. So this is my list of the most essential equipment for singers.
I’ve organized everything into three core sections, where I cover:
(Pt. 1) Free starter singing equipment
(Pt. 2) Awesome intermediate equipment
(Pt. 3) More advanced pro equipment
But technically, all you need is you and your drive to sing and practice everyday. So let’s kick things off there.
Let’s get it.
Hey there, just a heads up that some of the links in this post may be affiliate links. That means I earn a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you, but helps me keep the lights on. Thank you for your support!
What Equipment Do Singers Need? (real talk)
To get started and to grow as a singer, you technically need nothing.
But one intangible thing that’s helped me (more than any tool) is my mindset.
Your mindset is one of the first and most important “equipment” you’ll need for singing.
For example, I always wanted to be a singer. I played guitar and had thousands of song ideas – but I always lacked confidence to sing those ideas. I was in a fixed mindset.
So here are some of my favorite tips for building a singer’s mindset:
Know your artistic motivations
Work with a singing coach or mentor
Define your musical goals
Only make healthy comparisons
Become process-oriented – love the journey
Set realistic time horizons
Break down your goals and focus on the daily, micro objectives
Have a support network
Acknowledge and address any self doubts you may have
Actively practice a growth mindset
Try to just have fun + not stress
[Pt. 1] Free Equipment for Singers
The tools below are all free, essential resources to get you started.
They’re the stuff you’ll probably always have in your singing tool belt.
Metronome
Learning to sing to a click track was one of my biggest hurdles when I first started singing.
It felt pretty awkward at first – but it’s been a huge factor in my growth as a musician. So this is my first vital tool for singers.
If you’re unfamiliar, a metronome is a tool that spits out a BPM (beats per minute) so you can stay on beat and practice your timing.
Finding a free metronome is pretty straightforward (I usually go to YouTube or use a free app). But of course, there are also more advanced (and expensive) options available.
One notable product is Pulse by Soundbrenner. It’s a wearable watch that vibrates the beat so you feel it rather than just hear it.
It’s definitely on my wish list, but they also have an app called The Metronome, which is popular (with over 8 million downloads).
Pitch Pipe
(image source: amazon.com)
If you don’t have a piano or some tuned instrument to reference, it can be tricky to find your pitch and practice things like scales.
(well, there are tons of videos for this actually – so maybe not too hard).
But regardless, having a handy tool like a pitch pipe can be super helpful – especially for ear training and pitch practice.
Just like the metronome, you can find many free options – like YouTube videos or free apps – or you can opt for more expensive gear.
Straws
Straws have been a singer’s staple for…I’m not sure, but a really long time.
Primarily, they help with breath control and vocal endurance (it’s a semi-occluded vocal tract exercise).
You can watch this quick video from Eric Arceneaux on how to use a straw to practice singing.
But you can use just cheap plastic straws or you can opt for some sturdier and more premium, like this one.
Recording App
As singers, we’re constantly recording our voices.
It’s super helpful for getting out melody ideas and analyzing your voice for areas to improve.
You likely already have a free recording app in your smartphone (I often use my voice memo app).
But I also like using BandLab to record songs ideas or vocal exercises on my phone.
Smartphone Camera (or mirror)
Similar to recording our voice for audio reference, it’s incredibly helpful to have a visual reference tool.
Again, our smartphones got our backs. I mean, the video quality on the newer phones is getting pretty insane.
But if you prefer the analog way, you can also use a mirror.
The basic idea for this tool is to look at your mouth shape, your posture and any bad habits that pop up (such as a closed mouth, tense shoulders or a lost tongue).
Pen + Paper (or a digital doc)
The last tool in this first section is for your lyrics.
We need something to sing after all, and we can’t remember all the words or sounds all the time (unless, you’re singing random runs and hums with no sense or order…).
But having a pen and paper or a Google Doc with lyrics pulled up is super helpful when you’re practicing a new song.
(psst, I have a recent release you’re keen to listen)
[Pt. 2] Intermediate Equipment for Singers
It’s time to take things up a notch.
This next set of tools are more advanced and include recording and production equipment.
You can start adding effects to your voice, produce full songs and so much more.
DAW (digital audio workspace)
This is the dashboard for an empty project in Logic Pro X (my preferred DAW).
It’s time to upgrade the basic recording apps to something a little more professional.
We need a DAW, which is software for recording, producing and mixing music.
If you know how to do things right, you can make release-ready tracks in the comfort of your bedroom.
It’s a great investment to take your singing to the next level.
Here are some popular DAWs (a non-exhaustive list):
This is Apple’s music production software and my DAW of choice
$199
This is also from Apple, but a more beginner-friendly version of Logic Pro
Free (for Mac users)
$79 (cheapest package)
$99.99 (cheapest package)
$60 for license (but can download and test full version for free)
$99 (cheapest package)
Keyboard or MIDI Controller
This is the M-Audio Oxygen 49, which I recently bought myself. (image source: amazon.com)
If you’re a singer, eventually getting a keyboard or MIDI controller is an inevitability.
It’s incredibly helpful for practicing scales, singing while playing and having some instrumental accompaniment.
A keyboard is perfect as a standalone purchase. But snagging a MIDI keyboard will let you sync up with a DAW so you can record (and produce) virtually any sound your heart desires.
These are the MIDI keyboards I’m currently using:
Smaller and perfect for travel
Slightly bigger, at 49 keys
Microphone, Mic Stand, Pop Filter, Cables + Audio Interface
No studio setup would be complete without a full microphone kit.
So let’s start with the mic.
In singing, there are two main types of microphones talked about most:
Condenser mic
Better for catching softer, higher frequency sounds
Dynamic mic
Better for capturing louder strong sounds
The best one for you can depend on your environment, personal preferences and singing style.
But just be sure to grab an XLR cable as well (so you can connect your mic into monitors or your audio interface).
You’ll want to also grab a pop filter and a mic stand.
A pop filter will reduce the plosives in your voice when singing (making the recording much smoother and level).
(I just bought a cheap one with good reviews).
A mic stand will let you stand up with good posture for singing (since sitting isn’t always optimal).
Finally, you’ll need an audio interface. This is a small device that connects a microphone to a computer and converts audio signals (like singing) into data for your DAW.
There are many audio interfaces, but a couple popular options include:
This is the one I’m currently using
It’s more affordable, but has lasted me almost 4 years now
Studio Headphones
These are the Audio-Technica studio headphones I use. Grab a pair here. (image source: amazon.com)
A good pair of headphones is essential for completing your bedroom singing studio setup.
When I first started, I was using just a cheap pair that I had lying around. This is fine for when you’re starting out.
But upgrading to a more professional pair will let you hear more subtleties and frequencies in your performances.
I’m currently using these Audio-Technica ATH-M50 professional studio headphones – and I love them.
Here’s a fun fact too, these are the same headphones that FINNEAS uses (you know, the talented musician and the main producer/brother of Billie Eilish).
Throat Sprays + Teas
This last one can be a nice addition to any singer’s toolbox.
It’s throat spray – for those days when we’re feeling a bit dry.
Lifestyle choices (like drinking lots of water, avoiding too much coffee or alcohol and getting good sleep) are important, but why not add a little extra oomph?
Here are some popular throat spays and teas for singers:
Vocal Eze Throat Spray
Vocalzone throat teas
Traditional Medicinals’ Throat Coat tea
Yogi’s Throat Comfort tea
There are tons of products out there, so you may want to dig deeper to find one that works for you.
Your singing coach should be able to help you too, since they’ll know your voice better.
[Pt. 3] Pro Equipment for Singers
This last section is a list of more advanced equipment for singing.
So if you’re still just starting out, or just enjoy dabbling, these things aren’t necessary.
But if you’re looking to take your skills and tools to the next level, these can be some great options.
Soundproof Paneling
Soundproofing will go a long way in giving you some more privacy and making your recordings sound better and more professional.
Essentially, these are foam pads that dampen the sound waves from bouncing off too many walls, windows and objects.
You can get small paneling that covers just your microphone or large panels to cover the walls of your home studio.
Either way, starting to use soundproofing techniques is an advanced move that can take your singing equipment to the next level.
Vocal Booth
(image source: amazon.com)
If you want to take sound paneling one step further, you may also consider getting a vocal booth.
While you can build one out fully, there are easier, more portable options as well (like this one that’s only about $50).
These are basically movable singing boxes with four carpeted soundproof walls and a ceiling, often just big enough for one person.
The price range on these can vary from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand.
But they can add a lot of production value and singing privacy for a pretty reasonable price.
Here’s a popular full-size vocal booth off of Amazon (I’m also adding this to my list as I write this post).
In-Ear Monitor
In-ear monitors (IEMs) are often used for live music events and can help protect your ears.
IEMs are a type of headphone that let you hear your voice, the music and a click track more clearly, especially during loud performances or events.
But they’re not just for live performances.
They can also be used in the studio, since they are smaller and some singers may find them more comfortable than larger, bulkier headphones.
Humidifier
Last but not least, we’ve got my last item on this list: a humidifier.
Full disclosure, I’ve never used a humidifier (for singing). But I haven’t had too many issues with a dry throat or home.
Still, many singers will swear by using one.
A good humidifier will address dry air issues in your home (which worsens or leads to a dry throat).
They add moisture back into the air, and can make your singing more comfortable.
There are various humidifiers available and can be standalone units you put in your room, or they can be individual units you use like an inhaler.
Again, choosing the right option will come down to personal preferences, your vocal concerns and your dry throat goals.
I’ll update this post with some specific products once I’ve tried one or two and can confidently recommend one.
In the meantime, here’s a post that covers humidifiers for singing in more detail.
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