Here is a quick breakdown of my first year expenses in being a fledgling booth junkie.
First. CRAIGSLIST IS YOUR FRIEND. I have only purchased 2 items retail - laptop and one mic, everything else is second hand. I look at craigslist every day.
Microphone: CAD e-100 $100 Craigslist
Computer: Macbook pro $1200 retail
SE Reflection Filter - $100 craigslist
Interface: Apogee Duet for Ipad and Mac – $250 (Craigslist)
Sound treatment: OC703 Acoustic insulation panels – $300 for the room. (Craigslist)
Mic Stand. On Stage Stands MS7701B Tripod Boom Microphone Stand
XLR Cable
$20 retail maybe?
Demo recording sessions and production - $800
Voice Acting classes - 500
Total outlay over 1 year about $3,000 including recording and products a demo. Many of these purchases are with earnings from gigs.
Since I already had a computer I started winning gigs with far less than $1500 in cash outlay. I started with moving blankets attached to my walls and added sound treatment as I could get it. Some kind of sound treatment for the “booth” is absolutely essential. This cannot be overstated, and should be a priority. You won’t win ANY gigs with a noisy echo-y room.