Getting Started

Yes, you can build your own gear.

Here's what you need:

  • A realistic first project
  • Good tools (about $50 worth)
  • A desire to learn

And here's what you don't need to get started:

  • Any electronics knowledge
  • A full electronics lab
  • Soldering experience

Choose a Realistic and Rewarding First Project

For most people, the worst thing you can do to get started is try to do everything at once. Trying to learn electronics, buy parts for multiple projects, and assemble a full electronics lab from the get-go is bound to leave you with a bunch of broken parts and expensive tools you don't use.

Instead, chose one simple project to begin your DIY journey with. This will give you a clear, achievable goal. Focus on only buying the tools and learning the things you need to know to complete that project. Once you've successfully built it, you'll be excited and ready to repeat the process with a more complex project.

We have a number of kits designed specifically to be great first projects. Check out our Beginner Friendly Kits for some great first DIY projects.

Get the right tools

If you're just getting started with DIY, investing in a good set of tools is the best thing you can do to set yourself up for success. You are more likely to stick with the hobby if your tools are a pleasure to use rather than a hindrance. And well-built gear sounds better, lasts longer, and affords you peace of mind when you're recording.

You might be surprised how little you actually need to spend to put together a respectable setup. In fact, at the time of writing, you can get everything you need to build your first kit for just $50.

We keep an up-to-date list of the tools recommended below here: Amazon $50 soldering setup tools

You only really need three basic tools to get started: a soldering iron, solder, and wire cutters.

Soldering Iron $30

Your soldering iron is the most important part of your DIY toolbox. The better your iron is, the better your solder joints will be and the better your DIY gear will perform. You can spend hundreds on a premium iron, but the one we recommend does a great job for just $30 and will not limit the quality of your builds.As a bonus, the soldering station we recommend also comes with a wire tip cleaner and desoldering pump, which are essential for any setup.

Solder $10

There are two main types of solder: tin and lead-free. I highly recommend using old school tin solder; it’s easier to work with and it makes better, longer-lasting joints. Look for solder labeled 60/40 or 63/37.

Wire Clippers $8

Once you've soldered those parts together, you'll need to trim the left-over component leads. A small wire clipper will do the job neatly.

Wire Tip Cleaner (comes with soldering iron)

Dirt and oxidation are the enemies of good solder joints. Dipping your tip in a wire “sponge” like this one between every solder joint is the best way to make sure your joints are impeccably clean. I find this far easier and more effective than the standard wet sponge that comes with the soldering station.

Desoldering Pump

When you mess up (and you will mess up), this “solder sucker” is your undo button. You can reheat the problem joint, suck out the molten solder, and start over.

Learn to Solder

Choose a comfy, well lit, and well ventilated place to be your DIY nook. If possible, solder by an open window with a fan running. Soldering is actually quite easy, it just takes a bit of practice. Check out the video below from Sparkfun for an excellent intro to soldering.

Once you've gained a bit of confidence in your ability to make a clean solder joint, begin on your first project! Buidling your own gear may seem intimidating at first, but with realistic goals, the right tools, and a bit of practice, anyone can do it.