I prefer the 002 Rack

Midi Keyboard controller ... that is ... it does make the sound.
The Soft Synths in the computer do that.
... just get one of the cheaper units with enough keys to suit your needs 61 notes
or a short one to save space , it's your choice
get one with knobs
then you will learn what knobs and Continuous Controllers can do for you

Headphones are very personal so buy one you like ... and keep in mind you will have them on your head for hours

there is nothing wrong with having Headphones to play'n'record with - Comfort

then a different set for editing and mixing - Accuracy
(you can't mix in headphones :? )

don't stress too much
you have a great deal to learn

be patient and take things slow
a new fact each day and in a year you will know the answers to the above questions

we are always here if you need us

Lumen wrote:
I've got some buddies who I'd like to be able to have over to jam in near silence and record the whole thing.
-Lumen

You'll need more headphones and a headphone distribution system. Otherwise, how will all of you hear each other in "near silence"...assuming mostly direct recording?

Kapt.Krunch

You'll need more headphones and a headphone distribution system. Otherwise, how will all of you hear each other in "near silence"...assuming mostly direct recording?

Yeah-- I figure the guys will bring their own headphones, and I'll use something like [[url=http://[/URL]="http://www.amazon.c…"]this[/]="http://www.amazon.c…"]this[/] plugged directly into the 002?

As far as direct recording goes-- Yes, I'm planning on upgrading my guitar amp situation, and running a line out option directly to my mixer, as opposed to mic'ing a speaker cab. How does this tend to sound versus the alternative? I live in an apartment, so blasting rock leads at 50 watts of tube amp creaminess is a less than ideal scenario.

I prefer the 002 Rack

So Kev, WHY do you prefer the rack over the console option for the Digi? Is there any reason to go 003 instead of 002? My research so far indicates that the 002 would be a much cheaper, yet very solid option.

Midi Controller: I understand that this doesn't have to be an extremely expensive piece of equipment, as its just doing on/off triggers for MIDI. Any specific recommendations (model/brand)?

Do I need to pick up a seperate effects processor (perhaps a rack-mounted unit, if I go that route with the Digi)?

Thanks all!

Um..... Apartments? Musicians coming over? Anything amplified is in congruent with your lease renewal. Synthesizers & software are made for apartments. Along with headphones. Make sure your headphone amplifier is sufficient enough to put you into the hospital?

I don't agree with Kev about not being able to mix with headphones. Plenty of people mix with headphones on. It's just that not many people come up with good mixes that way. There are those of us who have become so intimate with only a couple of headphones throughout 30+ years of use that we can't come up with exceptional acceptable compromises a.k.a. a good mix. But it's certainly not my first choice for mixing. More applicable to tracking than mixing. But then even during tracking it can cause you insurmountable dilemmas? You'll be able to hear things you could never hear through a speaker. That will drive you crazy. Look at me! Don't try this at home. I mean TRY THIS AT HOME! See what I mean? Crazy I tell you. Crazy. Did I mention headphones??

Old Phones are broken when they stop ringing
Ms. Remy Ann David