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Ok so I just got my new XPS M1530 - 4g Mem - Intel Core Duo 2 at 2.4 ghx - and Vista Premium

I had a Line 6 Tone Port UX2, and Cubase SX3 (which I could never get to work together quite right because of latency, so I used WaveLab or WavePad to as my DAW) But anyways, I tried to install the TonePort and it didnt work, and I have to use a RAR system to open the Cubase (since it was a copy).

But I really want to start recording, pretty seriously. I have a pretty decent knowledge of recording and producing; I've been around it for a few years and I worked at a studio for a few months last year, and I produced my own album last year too.

But so this is my question. What would be the best options for me to start recording? I know that Vista is pretty terrible for recording, but its going to have to work.

I really like the PreSonus FireStudio Project, or the Alesis IO26. I want to be able to record like live sessions and stuff, and be able to control each instrument to a decent amount, blah bah blah. So would this be a pretty good idea or what would you guys suggest? I want to spend at the most $500 on an interface or HD mixer, but cheaper would be nicer.

Also what about some software? I like Cubase, but do you guys think I should look into other software?

I would really like some help with this, thanks a lot, Brandon

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hueseph Wed, 07/02/2008 - 08:46

Kapt.Krunch wrote: [quote=abefroman35]...and I have to use a RAR system to open the Cubase (since it was a copy).

Also what about some software? I like Cubase, but do you guys think I should look into other software?

Ummm...a copy? As in "backup copy" because your legally purchased original copy went bad?

Kapt.Krunch

If that was the case it would be a cd or DVD back up. This be warez. Prepare to be flogged. :evil:

hueseph Wed, 07/02/2008 - 11:26

abefroman35 wrote: yeah i had always make backups of my software and i moved after i bought it and i cant find it anymore - but i solved my problem

i just got the new GearBox and new Live Lite and I'm just going to use that for right now

That's a waste of $300+. Don't you think? Regarding the latency, that was an ASIO issue that could've been fixed with one step. It's in the manual.

Live lite only allows for 4 Audio tracks. That includes loops. If you must, try downloading either Kristal Audio Engine(freeware) or Reaper's free version.

hueseph Wed, 07/02/2008 - 22:17

Codemonkey wrote: Reaper has a free version? I thought it was a trial then you "should" buy it.

I use Kristal to record, looks not too bad but the lack of volume envelopes puts it behind audacity imo.

I was under the impression that the older 1.0 version of Reaper is in fact freeware. I could be wrong. I'm pretty sure it's free to use so long as it's not for commercial purposes.

Regarding Kristal: what it lacks in volume envelopes it makes up for with real time effects manipulation and a more standard mixer view. Also, factor in the implementation of ASIO compatibility, which means low latency.

anonymous Wed, 07/02/2008 - 22:44

You could also buy a copy of Computer Musician and they have Samplitude SE for free in certain issues, (check beforehand as it is not included on every issue of the software DVD they give out). That would be better than both Kristal and Audacity.

Pay 50 bucks for Reaper for a non commercial license is also a good option. I mean a night out costs more than 50 bucks these days, forgo one night of beer and invest in a great program ! If you do go commercial, you can hand over the 200 bucks later for the commercial license based solely upon trust.

anonymous Thu, 07/03/2008 - 11:28

well see i downloaded and used krystal before, actually i think that is what i used to produce my little album/demo thing, and i squeezed every bit of good quality of it that i could, but it still doesnt sound to great, i mean it might be the interface as well. is reaper pretty decent, or do you think i should maybe just purchase like sonar or cubase le or something else for around 100 or so?

hueseph Thu, 07/03/2008 - 13:21

abefroman35 wrote: well see i downloaded and used krystal before, actually i think that is what i used to produce my little album/demo thing, and i squeezed every bit of good quality of it that i could, but it still doesnt sound to great, i mean it might be the interface as well. is reaper pretty decent, or do you think i should maybe just purchase like sonar or cubase le or something else for around 100 or so?

The quality has nothing to do with the program. It's your skills that need upgrading and that's not meant to cut you. It simply is the truth. If you can't make it sound good in Kristal, it's not going to sound any better in Nuendo.

You want cheap programs? Cubase Studio 4 is $400. Tracktion 3 Project Bundle is $99 us. Sonar Home Studio is $99 or less. Samplitude SE is about $75. Most LE versions of software can't be bought but are distributed with hardware.

anonymous Thu, 07/03/2008 - 18:56

The quality has nothing to do with the program. It's your skills that need upgrading and that's not meant to cut you. It simply is the truth. If you can't make it sound good in Kristal, it's not going to sound any better in Nuendo.

You want cheap programs? Cubase Studio 4 is $400. Tracktion 3 Project Bundle is $99 us. Sonar Home Studio is $99 or less. Samplitude SE is about $75. Most LE versions of software can't be bought but are distributed with hardware.

haha nah its all good you are def right though - alright well thanks man - i think im gonna stick with the live lite for right now and get to know that better then ill upgrade to reaper or somethin sometime
thanks for all the help