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Posts: 15664
Location: SoCal | I want to start doing some recording on the computer and have absolutely no idea what program to use or how to hook the guitar up to the computer --- in other words, I need a beginner's primer on the subject. Anybody have any thoughts? |
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Posts: 6197
Location: Phoenix AZ | You'll get lots of opinions what to do. As usual most of them will be crap and in the end you'll end up wishing you just followed my advice in the first place. I'll email some tips. Dave the Legendary Jerk. |
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December 2003
Posts: 1071
Location: Carle Place, NY | I recently bought a Lexicon Omega . It is truly an all-in-one package with quality recording software that includes some good effects. I've also used it to convert vinyl LP's and old cassete tapes to digital format that can be burned onto a CD. It's well worth the $299 price.
For tips on recording try: Studio Central |
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December 2003
Posts: 1889
Location: Central Massachusetts | I just picked up a Line 6 TonePort for this purpose. Instrument and/or microphone input, recording at 44.1 & 48KHz, 16 & 24 bit. Comes with lots of amp and cabinet simulations and effects like chorus, flange, etc.. for a few extra bucks, you can get any effect available on the Pod XT's. Works with GarageBand on the Mac. also comes with a lightweight version of Ableton Live which I haven't touched.
I'm sure there are more professional options out there, but you can't beat it for $130, at least for a hobbyist. |
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October 2005
Posts: 5330
Location: Cicero, NY | Dave, would you be kind enough to send the same tips my way? I'm breaking into it as well and could use any tips I can get...
...then, God help you all... |
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June 2002
Posts: 6197
Location: Phoenix AZ | http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Recording/Multi/Track/Record... |
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October 2005
Posts: 5330
Location: Cicero, NY | Ok, in advance, I know this is a simpleton's question but what's the consensus on recording straight to the pc vs getting a multi track recorder? Pros and or cons (I've heard the software has a huge learning curve but is much more versatile - true)? |
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Posts: 16
Location: PNW | At its simplest, you can just plug a mic into your soundcard and use native Windows programs like Sound Recorder and Volume control to record a single track. To do multi-track recording you will need some software to do it. There are many available from lots of mfgs like Cakewalk, etc. Google up 'multi-track recording software' and fasten your seatbelt. Everything from freeware to 'take out a second mortgage' offerings are out there. Then there's hardware...
There are dedicated input devices you can add to your 'puter that will have higher quality and more flexible options available for recording tracks. Creative's SB Audigy is one. M-Audio is another pretty good mfg to check out. They have lots of choices in recording hardware. You can go as simple or complex as you want when it comes to making your computer into a digital studio. Spend some time doing research. Read through some forums on the subject and be prepared to be overwhelmed with info. Start simple and affordable. The shortcomings of your setup will present themselves in their own time and you will be in much better position to decide how and what to upgrade to.
PS I didn't even mention things like mics... You'll want a decent one. Check Marshall, etc. to get started. Cheap and pretty good for the price. I like the large diaphragms for guitars. |
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February 2005
Posts: 253
Location: New Orleans | The Mackie Spike is excellent. |
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March 2002
Posts: 15664
Location: SoCal | At this point, the only reason I want to be able to record my guitar is to lay down a rhythm track, against which, to work on my lead playing. |
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April 2003
Posts: 2503
Location: Fayetteville, NC | Moody, the lexicon Omega should work fine for you, from what i've read. Not only should you be able to recors your rhythm Track but you could record your lead practices to a seperate track while monitoring your rhythm. Not only a great learning tool. but fun as well. |
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October 2005
Posts: 5330
Location: Cicero, NY | Call me doubtful but one review on MF says re: the Line 6 TonePort - "...if it had boobs, I wouldn't leave the house!"
Maybe it's fun but c'mon... |
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June 2002
Posts: 6197
Location: Phoenix AZ | Originally posted by moody, p.i.:
At this point, the only reason I want to be able to record my guitar is to lay down a rhythm track, against which, to work on my lead playing. Why not just teach your son to play rhythm. Three chords can't take THAT long to learn, can it?
Dave |
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September 2004
Posts: 777
Location: East Wenatchee, WA | I just upgraded from a Tascam 424 tape machine to a 2488 HD recorder. I looked at going with a computer based machine, but the Input/output options were limited for my laptop and I didn't want to have a desktop in the same place as my Mackie board and music equipment.
I looked hard at the Korg D1200 and Yamaha HD recorders. In the end went with Tascam for the full 24 tracks and what appeared to be decent feature set.
I am not real teckie, so the learning curve has been a bit steep making this jump, but so far I have some tracks down and will soon have to take the leap to actually mastering them and burning to a CD just to see how it all turns out.
One other reason I bought this particular board is the full 8 inputs. I figure if I ever decide to get rid of my Mackie board and big EV speakers, I will keep the Tascam, and my powered speaker and still have a decent small room PA...plus I can record whatever is going through the deck at the same time.
Computers can do more in the editing department due to the large screens and more powerful software, but I am content in my imperfection, so after several takes, I settle on "good enough for me (and for free)" and move on. I have no future in music beyond doing worship at church, so see no reason to worry about more than that. |
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December 2003
Posts: 13987
Location: Upper Left USA | Dave, you are in fine Moody-ripp'in form! Hoo-ahh!
Cruster just loaned me his Tascam Pocket Studio 5 which should start my learning curve. It will probably launch my recording equipment GAS as well. First trys were with the guitar port and a Shure 12AH angled at the fretboard and sound holes.
Try the PC route until you feel held back. |
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November 2004
Posts: 286
Location: North Idaho | I've been looking at a PC system to enable some editing. How about Sonar 5 with E-MU 1212M card setup? |
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June 2002
Posts: 6197
Location: Phoenix AZ | That's almost what I use. Sonor 4 w/ EMu 1010. It's a great setup, but I think Moody wants something a little more straight forward.
Dave The Legendary Jerk |
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February 2005
Posts: 11840
Location: closely held secret | Originally posted by MWoody:
Try the PC route until you feel held back. Held back? I borrowed a friend's Roland HD recorder for about a week. I gave it back, I felt so restricted compared to what I can do on my PC.
I've got an M-Audio Firewire 1814 - 18 in, 14 out - and I can connect it either to my desktop or my laptop.
Paul, you already have a hard disk recorder - you're reading this on it. Get yourself either a PCI or Firewire interface. PCI is cheaper, if you're using a desktop computer. You can get one for $100 or less. USB is Ok, though many users have expressed dissatisfaction because of latency issues. Go to PG Music and order a copy of Powertracks for $49 or Cubase SE3 for $100. Maybe pick up an MXL condenser mic . Cut loose and have fun. You'll be amazed at what you can do without investing too much. If you decide you want to get more serious about it, you can always buy a better interface and upgrade your software. |
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May 2004
Posts: 2850
Location: Midland, MI | I run Sonar 5 (PE :rolleyes: ) with an Echo Layla24 PCMCIA into my laptop. Or, I use the multitracker on the GNX4. Or, I use the GNX4 into Sonar via USB. Or, I use the GNX4 into Sonar via the Echo. Or, I could use the PS5 (well, not really any longer, as I don't have a cord that will reach Seattle...heh). Or, I could...go on.
Just pick something and get to know it. If you want simple, line in on your sound card. If you want fidelity and features, you're going to have to start into equipment. I like Dave's suggestion of that DP01 kit, but I would (personally) go for the DP01fx kit instead (only because I'm a tyro). |
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April 2004
Posts: 13303
Location: Latitude 39.56819, Longitude -105.080066 | Paul, if all you want is something to lay down rhythm tracks, then get one of the memory stomp boxes that allows 4-5 minutes of recording time. Play whatever you want, let it repeat, and then wail away on those leads.
Or get a drum machine that plays drums along with the bass patterns. |
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October 2005
Posts: 400
Location: North Texas | The stand alone multi track recorders are very nifty. I use the Tascam Pocket Studio 5 also, and love it. You can use a card reader to put the songs into the computer for easy editing. Boss has a couple of cool recorders, like my BR-864, which uses CF cards. Using a combination of devices, including a computer, works well. If you want to use only a PC, get a little mixer and use the line in on the sound card. That works fine. Also, get a sequencer program, like PowerTracks, which allows for audio, and midi, multi track recording and editing. Again, if you have access to the PocketStudio 5 you are in business. Good Luck and have fun! Buck |
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Home computer recording
