Your Ultimate Home Piano Recording Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Whether you’re a pianist preparing for an exam, auditioning for a program or just curious to hear how you really sound, there comes a time when recording yourself is a must.
Recording yourself can be super helpful for both performers and composers, whether you’re tracking progress, sharing your music or creating content for others to enjoy.
But not all recording methods are created equal—some will leave you with a flat or unclear sound that doesn’t do your playing justice. In this guide we’ll walk you through the best ways to record your piano, the gear you’ll need and how to set everything up for the clearest sound.
Acoustic vs Digital: Which Piano Is Easier to Record?
Before you start recording, it’s important to understand that your approach will depend heavily on the type of piano you’re using. Recording a digital piano is often much simpler than recording an acoustic one. However, if you manage to record an acoustic piano properly, the sound quality can be much more impressive.
Digital pianos are naturally easier to work with when it comes to recording. In most cases, you already have everything you need at home—no need to worry about microphones, cables, or acoustic treatment. With a few basic tools, you can plug in your digital piano and start recording right away. That said, while you’ll save money on physical equipment, you might end up spending a bit on software for capturing and editing your recordings afterward.
On the other hand, acoustic pianos are a bit more demanding. You’ll need a decent microphone setup and probably some soundproofing or dampening equipment to get a clean recording. The good news is that you may not need much software unless you plan to edit the recording later. But keep in mind—if you’re submitting a recording for an exam or audition, editing may not be allowed, so capturing it correctly the first time is crucial.
Recording Quality
When it comes to capturing sound, the method you choose makes a big difference in the final result. That said, you won’t always need professional studio-level recordings. In fact, in many everyday situations, your smartphone might do the job just fine. If you own a modern device like the iPhone 11, you can get surprisingly good audio with very little effort.
But there are exceptions. For instance, if you’re trying to record a digital piano or want a cleaner, more accurate sound, your phone might not cut it. That’s where dedicated recording equipment comes in.
In this article, we’ll walk through a variety of recording methods and gear options, covering different instruments and scenarios. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a simple solution or someone aiming for a more polished sound, this guide will help you find the right setup for your needs.
Keep in mind, we’re focusing solely on audio recording here. Video recording has its own set of challenges and tools, and while some tips may overlap, it’s a topic for another day.
Recording a Digital Piano to Your Computer: The Best Way to Do It
If you’re looking to record your digital piano, the simplest and most effective method is to connect it directly to your computer. There’s really no need to worry about using microphones—unless your piano is extremely old and lacks any sort of digital output (which is rare), a direct connection is almost always the better choice.
Here’s why this method makes the most sense:
You don’t lose any sound quality, which often happens when you try to capture audio through external microphones.
You can record directly into your preferred software, allowing you to easily add layers, tweak sounds, and apply effects during editing.
It’s incredibly easy to change the piano sound—especially if you’re working with virtual instruments or VST plugins.
But is it really just a matter of plugging in a cable and hitting record? Sometimes, yes—it can be that easy. However, the setup can vary depending on your piano and computer. So, let’s take a closer look at the different ways you can connect and start recording your digital piano to your computer.
Recording Through MIDI
MIDI is one of the most powerful tools in modern music-making. At its core, MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) is a language—a universal standard that lets your digital music gear communicate with each other.
It’s important to understand that MIDI doesn’t transmit actual audio. Instead, it sends performance data—information about what notes were played, how hard they were struck, how long they were held, and more. You can think of MIDI like digital sheet music. Just like sheet music doesn’t produce sound but tells musicians what to play, MIDI tells your software how the music should sound.
A basic MIDI setup typically includes a MIDI controller and a DAW (Digital Audio Workstation). In most home setups, your MIDI controller will be a digital piano or keyboard, while the DAW runs on your computer. When you press a key on your piano, MIDI data is sent to the DAW, which then plays the corresponding note using whichever virtual instrument you’ve chosen.
For those wanting to expand their studio, there are more advanced options. You can integrate a dedicated MIDI interface, use a computer with a high-end sound card, or add a MIDI sequencer to your rig. The setup possibilities are vast, depending on how complex your musical goals are and the budget you’re working with.
But in this article, we’re keeping things simple. The focus here is on home recording, and for that, all you really need is a digital piano and a DAW. With just these two tools, you can achieve excellent results and create high-quality recordings from the comfort of your own home.
Finding the Right Software for MIDI Recording
If you’re planning to make a MIDI recording on your computer, you’ll need to get your hands on some software first. Most computers don’t come with the necessary tools built in—unless you’re using a Mac, which includes GarageBand, a decent and free option that works right out of the box.
There are plenty of software choices out there, both free and paid. As with anything, some of these programs are excellent, while others can be frustrating to use. Free options are a good place to start, but they often come with limitations. On the flip side, some of the premium software can be pretty expensive. Still, if you’re serious about recording, investing in good software is well worth it.
Below is a list of some popular MIDI recording software. I’ve included a rough idea of the price range and a personal rating based on my experience using each one. Some of these are still being reviewed, so check back for updates if you’re interested in a more in-depth breakdown.
Keep in mind—there’s no reason to spend $600 on professional-grade software if you don’t actually need all the advanced features. Choose what fits your goals and budget.
Popular MIDI Recording Software
| Software | Price Range | My Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Anvil Studio | Free | Good for beginners |
| FL Studio | $ | Great for loops and beats |
| Cubase | $$$ | High-end, professional features |
| Avid Pro Tools | $ | Industry standard, a bit complex |
| PreSonus Studio One 4 Artist | $$ | Well-balanced and intuitive |
| Ableton Live | $ | Excellent for live performances and electronic music |
| Cakewalk Sonar | $$ | Versatile and feature-rich |
| Reason 10 | $$$ | Powerful with lots of built-in instruments |
| GarageBand | Free (Mac only) | Simple and user-friendly |
These ratings are, of course, subjective. What works best for you might depend on your setup, your musical style, and how deep you want to go into audio production. It’s a good idea to read some user reviews, try out demos when available, and see what feels right.
In general, starting with a free option is a smart move, but be prepared—many of them have limits that might push you toward a paid version sooner than you think.
Once you’ve picked and installed your recording software, it’s time to move on to the next step: connecting your digital piano to your computer.
How to Connect Your Piano to a Computer
Connecting your digital piano to a computer is usually a simple process, especially if you’re recording music at home. The method you use depends on the type of piano you own. In most cases, you have three main connection options:
MIDI to USB
USB-to-Host to USB
Bluetooth
MIDI to USB Connection
If your piano has traditional MIDI ports (usually labeled “MIDI IN” and “MIDI OUT”), you’ll need a special MIDI to USB adapter. This type of cable has two round MIDI connectors on one end and a USB plug on the other.
To set it up, plug the MIDI connectors into the matching ports on your piano, then connect the USB end to your computer. The setup process is usually straightforward.
In some cases, you might need to install drivers for your piano to communicate properly with your computer. Whether you need drivers depends on the piano’s brand and model, but you can usually find them easily on the manufacturer’s official website.
USB-to-Host Connection
Connecting your digital piano to a computer via USB-to-Host works almost the same way as using a MIDI-to-USB cable. The difference is that instead of traditional MIDI ports, your piano has a USB Type B port. This port looks like a small square with rounded top edges—similar to what you’d find on a printer or scanner.
To get started, all you need is the right cable. Plug the USB Type B end into your piano and the other end (usually USB Type A) into your computer. It’s a simple and reliable way to transfer data.
Just like with MIDI, you might need to install drivers to make everything work properly. If your piano isn’t immediately recognized by your computer, check the manufacturer’s website for the correct software.
Bluetooth Connection
Bluetooth is an incredibly convenient option—especially if you want to avoid cables. While not all digital pianos offer it yet, more and more models are starting to include Bluetooth MIDI support.
If your digital piano has this feature, and your device supports Bluetooth (or you have a Bluetooth adapter), you can wirelessly connect your piano to a computer, tablet, or smartphone. This setup is especially helpful if you’re using an iPad or a portable device to record or produce music.
Pairing is usually straightforward, and once connected, you’re ready to go—no need to deal with physical connections.
Using a VST (Virtual Studio Technology)
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the talk of software, cables, and drivers, there’s a simpler path: use a VST. A VST, or Virtual Studio Technology plugin, lets you take the MIDI signal from your digital piano and turn it into realistic audio.
Once installed, a VST processes your playing in real time and can even record the audio for you. It’s one of the easiest ways to get high-quality piano sounds and start making recordings without diving into complex production software.
Some VSTs use actual samples recorded from real grand pianos, giving you rich, authentic sound. Others rely on sound modeling to generate tones dynamically. Either way, you get a lot of flexibility and professional sound quality with very little setup.
We’ll be covering the best VSTs in detail in an upcoming guide, so stay tuned.
Recording Your First Track
Once your digital piano is connected and your software is ready, you can jump right in and start recording. It’s truly that easy—no special skills required. Whether you’re using a USB cable, Bluetooth, or a VST, the process is mostly plug-and-play.
But what if you want to record an acoustic piano? That’s a whole different process, and we’ll cover that in the next section.
Recording an Acoustic Piano: A Guide to Capturing a Natural, Professional Sound
Recording an acoustic piano takes a bit more of the traditional approach, but in my experience, the results are well worth the effort. If you’re after a truly rich and natural piano sound, nothing beats the depth and realism of a properly captured acoustic. No VST or digital setup can quite match it.
So, let’s get into what you need to record your acoustic piano like a pro.
Upright vs Grand Piano: Room Placement and Recording Tips
When it comes to recording a piano, the approach you take will depend heavily on the type of piano you’re using. While the general principles of capturing sound remain consistent, upright and grand pianos require different strategies to get the best results. Understanding how each piano interacts with its space is crucial to creating a recording that sounds natural and full.
An upright piano tends to be more challenging to record. That’s because upright pianos are typically positioned against a wall. This setup is convenient and helps reflect the sound back toward the player, but it can make high-quality recording difficult. The wall can color the sound, and placing microphones in front of the instrument doesn’t always produce a true representation of its tone.
If you’re serious about getting a better recording from your upright, try moving it a few feet away from the wall. This will allow you to place microphones behind the piano, close to the soundboard, where much of the sound is produced. Keep in mind, though, that the piano will sound noticeably different in this position—both to you as the player and in the recording. Since you and the microphone are now in different locations, your perception of the tone may not match what’s captured.
You’ll need to experiment with both the piano’s placement and your microphone setup. What works best can vary depending on the acoustics of your room and the kind of sound you want to achieve. If you’re working in a professional studio, the sound engineer will typically have this figured out in advance. But if you’re recording at home, plan to do some trial and error to find the sweet spot.
A grand piano, on the other hand, is generally easier to record. Because it projects sound upward and outward into the room, it offers more flexibility in how you capture it. For a basic home recording, you can often get a good result by simply opening the lid and placing one microphone over the soundboard. If you’re aiming for a more professional sound, you can add a second or even a third microphone to capture a fuller stereo image and better dynamic range.
Moving a grand piano around the room usually has less of an impact than with an upright. That’s because its sound naturally spreads into the room, rather than being directed toward a wall. Still, every room is different, so it’s worth testing different positions to see what sounds best.
In the end, the kind of piano you have—upright or grand—will play a major role in how you set up your space for recording. Uprights may need to be pulled away from walls and carefully miked at the back, while grands benefit from overhead miking with the lid open. Whichever type you have, patience and careful listening are key to achieving a sound that feels authentic and pleasing in your recordings.
Types of Microphones
There are many different kinds of microphones out there, but to keep things simple, we’ll focus on the two main types you’re likely to encounter:
Dynamic microphones
Condenser microphones
When it comes to recording a piano, condenser microphones are usually the better choice. That’s because they do a much better job capturing the higher frequencies, which are important for piano sounds. While pianos also produce lower notes, dynamic microphones struggle to pick up the middle and high ranges as clearly as condensers do.
So, what exactly makes these two types different? It mainly comes down to how they work. Condenser mics have a smaller, lighter diaphragm that responds easily to sound waves. High frequencies don’t have as much energy as lower ones, so they only need a lightweight diaphragm to move and capture the sound accurately. Dynamic microphones, on the other hand, have a heavier diaphragm, which makes them less sensitive to high frequencies.
One advantage of dynamic microphones is that they’re tough and durable. You can often drop them or handle them roughly without damaging them. Condenser microphones are more fragile — if you drop one, it could break easily.
However, good quality condenser microphones tend to be quite expensive, often costing several thousand dollars. That’s usually not realistic for a home recording setup. If you’re on a budget, a USB microphone might be a good option. USB mics aren’t used in professional studios, but some of the better ones offer great sound quality for home use, and they plug directly into your computer without needing extra equipment.
Here are some recommended microphones for recording an acoustic piano, covering different types and price ranges:
| Microphone | Price Range | Type |
|---|---|---|
| AKG Pro Audio C214 | $$$ | Condenser |
| Blue Yeti Crimson Red | $$ | USB |
| MAONO AU-PM420 USB Microphone Kit | $ | USB |
| Sennheiser e935 | $$ | Dynamic |
| Audio Technica ATR2100x | $$ | USB/Dynamic |
Trying out different microphones to see which one fits your needs is a good idea, especially if you want better sound quality but don’t want to pay for professional studio time. For many casual uses, even your smartphone’s microphone can capture decent audio.
If you want to step up from your phone’s mic, getting a dedicated microphone connected to your computer is the next logical step.
Mic Placement for Piano Recording
Let’s dive into where you should place your microphones when recording piano. This topic isn’t complicated, but you can easily spend hours experimenting with slight adjustments to find the perfect sound. My advice is to follow some basic principles and then tweak the setup depending on your space and personal taste.
Upright Piano Mic Placement
The room you record in plays a huge role, especially with upright pianos. Avoid recording in tiny rooms where sound has nowhere to breathe. Small rooms make your recording sound flat and dry, lacking the natural resonance that makes a piano recording come alive.
If you’re stuck in a small space at home, try to pull your piano away from the wall by at least six feet. This gives the sound room to develop and opens up better mic placement options.
Also, consider removing panels or the fallboard from your piano if possible. This can produce a richer, fuller tone. Just be sure you know how to take them off and put them back on without damaging anything.
Mic Placement for a Bright Sound
If you want a lively, bright, almost pop-style sound, place your microphones behind the piano near the soundboard, around waist height. The farther the mics are from the piano, the softer and mellower the sound becomes.
If you have two microphones, position them spaced evenly behind the piano. With only one mic, place it right in the middle for a balanced tone.
Mic Placement for a Mellow, Natural Sound
For a warmer, more natural solo piano sound—ideal for classical recordings—try placing the microphone behind you as you play. This position captures the sound more like what you hear sitting at the piano, including some room acoustics.
If you only have one microphone, place it directly behind you.
A small downside: any noise from your bench or pedals might be picked up. If this happens, switch back to the placement behind the piano itself, which is less likely to capture those unwanted sounds.
Remember, these are guidelines. The best way is always to experiment and find what works for you.
Grand Piano Mic Placement
Recording a grand piano is a bit simpler when using one or two microphones. You can experiment more if you have additional mics, but let’s focus on the basics.
Mics Inside the Grand Piano
If you want a very bright, crisp, and direct sound, placing microphones inside the piano is an option. But beware—this method isn’t ideal for music with wide dynamic range, like classical or jazz, because the mic can distort or compress loud passages.
One mic works best placed inside near the strings. With two mics, a stereo pair setup inside the piano captures a fuller sound.
If you have only one microphone, I generally recommend keeping it outside the piano to avoid an overly bright, intense sound.
Mics Outside the Grand Piano
My personal favorite is positioning microphones outside the grand piano. This setup produces a warm, natural sound that feels organic and true to the instrument.
Place one microphone just outside the piano. If you have two, position them about shoulder height and roughly 1.5 meters from the instrument. Keep the mics spaced apart following the rule that they should be at least three times farther from each other than from the piano. This helps avoid phase issues.
It’s a good idea to have someone play while you move the microphones around to find the sweet spot.
Adjusting the Sound Character
If the recording sounds too bright, try moving the microphones closer to the hammers or further inside the instrument.
But be careful not to place them too close. This can cause certain notes near the mic to stand out awkwardly.
If the sound feels too dry, move the microphones farther away. If it sounds too echoey or “roomy,” bring them closer. The key is to experiment and trust your ears.
Soundproofing and Room Treatment
The room’s acoustics and noise control are just as important as mic placement.
If you’re in a large room, you might get too much resonance, which can make your recording sound “boomy” and muddy. If external noises like traffic or school sounds bleed in, you’ll want to dampen those.
Soundproofing mainly comes down to adding mass—thicker walls block sound better, but upgrading your walls can be expensive.
A practical home solution is to use sound panels or foam tiles on your walls. Even a handful of these can significantly improve your recording environment by absorbing unwanted reflections.
Other tips include fixing creaky floorboards or adding damping material to reduce vibrations traveling through the floor. For small gaps letting in noise, stuff foam gaskets or even old pillows in there.