Well.. I've been putting off this hobby for a LONG time (couple of years), because I don't know what to get. So hopefully I can FINALLY get an answer and start pursuing a little of my dream of making music.
so can I get some advice on my potential setup? I really don't want to spend a lot, as this is 'hopefully' an upcoming hobby. I just want to try it out, see how creative I can get, and just record some songs me and my roommate think of on our spare time 'for fun'.
Recording Type (Genre):
-Guitar (acoustic guitar and electric distorted guitar) (Metal,Rock,Country)
-Rap (downloaded instrumental + our vocals)
My Current Setup:
Computer with Windows 7
X-FI Platinum with Audio Bay for Recording (Too sucky for recording?)
Acoustic Guitar
Shure PG58 Microphone
2 Electric Guitars hooked up to a BOSS GT-8 Pedal'
Yamaha Digital Piano
So in total, we have (3) 1/4" Plugs
And for the microphone, a XLR input.
I don't really want to do an effects outside of using computer software, so what do I need to 'connect' everything together?
A mixer? When I looked at prices for those, they can get pretty high. But since I don't want to do much effects other than volume, highs, and lows, is there anything within a beginner's budget you can advise me to purchase?
I plan to use Adobe Soundbooth/Cool Edit to record, then do the effects and editing with the software.
Whether or not I decide to pursue to start a musical hobby and see if anything happens decides on if I can find suitable parts to purchase.
Thanks a LOT for your help.
Comments
Typically what you would be looking for is an interface with bui
Typically what you would be looking for is an interface with built in preamps for recording. Your sound card is not really sufficient for good quality recordings though it could be used. The interfaces have many different options, but if you want to record electric guitar direct in (no amp) the unit you choose should be instrument level capable on at least one channel (two for stereo effects.) The units hook up to the computer some by firewire or some by USB and have varing computer requirements. For the most part they come bundled with pro recording software though you could use adobe for most of them (some units only work with particular software.) From your post I was not sure if you were single tracking (one input at a time) or wanted the ability to simultaneously record all four inputs.
Here is a link, investigate some units and post your thoughts for more specific feedback
http://www.sweetwater.com/store/search.php?s=Recording+Interfaces&rkg=1