[2025 Edition] Get it all in Akihabara! A Complete Guide to Singing Equipment from an Active Singer [For Beginners]

"I want to post a singing cover video, but I don't know where to start..." Have you ever had such a problem? In fact, the equipment required for singing covers is as follows:You can find everything you need in one day in Akihabara, the city of music and electronics!

In this article, we'll introduce everything from how to choose the equipment you need for beginners' singing covers, to how to purchase it in Akihabara, and basic connection methods. After reading this article, you too can take your first step towards becoming a singer today.

Why is it recommended to purchase equipment in Akihabara?

• A wealth of expertise!: From major retailers to music equipment specialty stores, you can choose by consulting directly with knowledgeable store staff.
• You can try out the actual machine!: There are many aspects of microphones and headphones that you can't really understand until you try them out. At the Akihabara store, you can actually touch and listen to a wide range of equipment.
• Completed in one day!: Everything you need, from computers to microphones and peripherals, is available here, so you don't have to go to multiple stores.

Start with this! Minimum equipment list

To record a full-scale "cover song," you will need some specialized equipment. Here, we will introduce the essential equipment that you should have at least.

1. Computer: The basic equipment for all recording and editing work.
└Download free/paid DAW software
2. Microphone: A classic for singing covers. Even delicate breathing can be recorded clearly.
3. Audio Interface: This is a device like a translator that inputs microphone sound into a computer with high quality sound.
4. Headphones (Earphones): This is necessary when you want to check the recorded music in a state that is closer to the original recording state.

How to record good audio? Recommended equipment and manufacturers

In addition to the essential equipment, introducing these will significantly improve the quality of your recording and make your work more comfortable.

+α equipment

Improve your audio! It may seem like a small thing, but having some extra equipment will help you make the perfect recording, and your satisfaction with the audio will increase dramatically.

・ポップガード: This filter prevents popping sounds such as "papipupepo" and allows you to record clear vocals.
・Microphone stand: Position your microphone in the optimal position, leaving your hands free to focus on singing.

Recommended manufacturers

Here are the recommended equipment from active singers! Basically, you can record anything as long as you have the necessary equipment, but we've put together a list of the equipment that we've actually used and found to be great! We'll introduce products that are relatively affordable, as they're also recommended for their price!

Microphone

SHURE SM58

This is a classic! It's used for live performances and in studios, but it's also great for recording.
The sound is not particularly good, but it has a smooth and easy-to-use sound quality, making it suitable for processing during mixing.

Shure Beta 58A-J

If you can spend a little more, I would also recommend this.
The sound is slightly clearer than the SM58. The vocal frequencies are slightly enhanced.

Shure SM7b

This microphone is known as an improved version of the model (SM7) used in Michael Jackson's "Thriller." Its sound quality is so high that it's even used in professional recording studios, making it a great choice for those who want to get the most out of their recordings. It's a bit pricey, so consider your budget. You can also consider replacing it later.

Audio interface

Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Gen4

This is also a standard for beginners! It has an auto-gain function and is easy to use.

MOTU M2

This is also recommended.
You can expect sound quality that is not worth the price, in a good way. If you have the money, this is OK!

ANTELOPE AUDIO Zen Go
RME Babyface Pro

Of the products I have personally used, these two are the ones I feel produce really great sound when recording! I recommend them, but they are quite expensive, so just for reference.

microphone cable

Along with the microphone and interface, you will also need a microphone cable, but one that costs around 2000 to 3000 yen should be sufficient!

Headphones (earphones)

Again, there is a wide range of prices. If you want to keep costs down, there's no problem using what you already have!
A good rule of thumb when singing is to get used to the parts you're particular about before you start working on them!

My top 3 recommended manufacturers

1. SENNHEISER
2. SHURE
3. STEINBERG

Personally, I feel that the above manufacturers are reliable and have never failed to deliver, so I recommend them if you are looking to buy products from the same manufacturer or as a set without worrying about price!

[Practical Guide] Where to buy in Akihabara? Recommended store map

There are many stores in Akihabara, but if you are looking for DTM and singing equipment, the following stores are particularly recommended.

① A large selection of products! Major electronics retailers

You can get everything from PCs to peripherals in one place, and you can also earn points. We recommend checking it out first.

• Yodobashi Camera Multimedia Akiba: There is an area specializing in musical instruments and DTM, with an overwhelming selection of products. There is also a corner where you can try out headphones.
• Bic Camera AKIBA:This store also has a specialized section where you can find all the equipment from major manufacturers.

② If you're looking for specialized knowledge, choose a music and DTM specialty store!

If you're looking for more specialized equipment or would like to speak to a salesperson, this is the place to go. You might even find some unexpected bargains.

• Ikebe Musical Instrument Store Rebore Akihabara: A long-established music store specializing in DTM and streaming equipment. They carry a wide range of products, from beginner sets to professional sets, and you can choose the equipment after consulting with knowledgeable staff.

Easy even for beginners! Basic equipment connection method

Many people who have purchased the equipment may be unsure of how to connect it all. The basic connections are very simple.

1. Connect the microphone to the audio interface with a microphone cable (XLR cable).
2. Connect the audio interface to your computer with a USB cable.
3. Connect headphones to your audio interface.

That's it, you're ready to record your own singing on your computer!

How much does it cost in the end? Minimum funding plans by purpose

If you just want to get started, you can save a lot of money, but if you want a low price but a certain level of quality, it's a different story.

■ Introductory plan: from approximately 30,000 yen
This is the easiest plan that utilizes beginner sets.
■ Standard plan: from approximately 70,000 yen
This plan includes a complete set of standard equipment and is designed to last a long time.

Summary: If you're not sure where to go, head to Akihabara first!

"Singing" is an appealing hobby that anyone can start right away as long as they have the necessary equipment. If you're worried about not knowing where to start, why not take a trip to Akihabara?

By actually touching the equipment and listening to the staff, your desire to try it will surely take shape. We hope this article will support you in your first steps as a singer!

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