I know you must get these threads with every second refresh, but I'm serious about setting this up.. so I need to know.
Monitors I can worry about later, same with mics.
It's really just the Audio I/O interface that's leaving me a bit overwhelmed.
I'd like to go for a Firewire interface, as it's portable. I know I'd like to be able to recreate my music live, so please bear that in mind.
I don't need a plethora of inputs... perhaps 8? If I record drums... it would probably be separate anyway. I'd need a mixer (for the live aspect), but I would like decent pres for recording... So would I need a firewire box and just a mixer? Or some sort of combo?
I'd prefer quality over quantity as far as direct inputs/outputs/good pres are concerned. Will be recording from a multitude of sources... from acoustic guitar to an old 80s synth. So basically a dynamic live/hobby studio get up.
Any help you can give me with the Audio IO? I know I want Firewire's portability... but if I get better quality at a cheaper price... I will consider PCI/PCIE.
Comments
I just picked up the Alesis IO|26....pretty friggin' sweet if yo
I just picked up the Alesis IO|26....pretty friggin' sweet if you ask me. The Converters are pretty darn quality and so are the preamps. The only thing that bothered me at first was the Direct Hardware Monitoring Tool that it came with. You have to adjust levels in there first before sending the signal to your Workstation. I have been using it lately to track my drums. One of the best purchases i've made to date.
As far as the mixer, you don't need one if your are using an IO box with multitracking software. You can adjust all the EQ settings and everything else within your multitracking software.
It is just my opinion, but I think it is better to get the natural sound from the instrument(s) first, then go ahead and mess around with it.
Also, the Alesis IO|26 runs its juice directly from the Firewire port....if your laptop can run enough juice, you will have no problem with this bad boy and portability.
That is just my opinion...but there are more experienced and more talented people in here than myself that might have a different opinion, ot have the money to buy professional equipment.