recording and other things

[frobie]

I am just getting into recording, my friend is letting me use his VS 880 VX (expanded), I have a AKG C414 BULS microphone, the really cheap ART tube preamp. I am considering buying a compressor(possibly behringer 2200), a sonic maximizer , and possibly a better preamp. Does anyone have any suggestions in a lower price range (under 120$ each). If so, which one of these processors is most important. (As of right now, I use the VS 880's compression, I have read that analog compression is definitely better) Currently I am using my laptop to record the songs off of the VS 880 using the microphone in ( Master RCA out of 880 to 1/8th cable into mic input on laptop) The 880 has digital out, but my laptop does not have digital inputs. All I have is the mic input. I found out that the Extigy has digital inputs and is USB compatible. Would this be a good way to record my songs digitally? Sorry I have so many questions...Please if anyone can help even the smallest bit I would greatly appreciate it. thanks
frobie

[The Green Hornet]

Yo Frobie Doobie Doo:

Get the RNC -- it truly is a really nice compressor for the money.

Mic pres are plentiful but the quality pres costs a few more bucks.

Get an issue of Tape Op and you will have a chance to review many advertised mic pres. [Tape Op is a FREE pub]

I really get a nice clear sound running my mic into the Grace 101 and then into the RNC and then to the recorder. But, these chunks of gear, although not way up there cost more than the lower end. Maybe you can audition some of the gear you want at a vendor?

Sweetwater sound has really improved its PR -- my rep will send me about anything to try and he will take it back if I don't dig it.

Well, good luck and good sounds.

Green Hornet

[Ronan]

Originally Posted by frobie

I am just getting into recording, my friend is letting me use his VS 880 VX (expanded), I have a AKG C414 BULS microphone, the really cheap ART tube preamp. I am considering buying a compressor(possibly behringer 2200), a sonic maximizer , and possibly a better preamp. Does anyone have any suggestions in a lower price range (under 120$ each). If so, which one of these processors is most important. (As of right now, I use the VS 880's compression, I have read that analog compression is definitely better)

Dude, if you put a sonic maximizer into that set up you will be killing dogs from miles a way. Stay away from the Sonic Mazimizer!! Here is why: C414, a very brite and edgy mic (this can be a good thing some times) mic pres on the VS880 are awful, but the distinct character of their awfulness is that they are brite and edge and smeared sounding. The ART is not much better. So far we have brite and edgy plus brite and edgy and smeared which leaves us with Super brite and super edgy with the bonus of sounding smeared. So now you are talking about adding a sonic maximizer which is a box that distorts the signal to make it seem briter and edgier!! If anyone listened to this on good speakers it would rip their ears off. Stay away from the sonic maximizer, they were a really bad idea adopted by engineers in the 80s who were doing too much coke and lost the high end in the hearing. You do not need it and you never will.

On the comprssor front I second the suggestion for the RNC by FMR Audio. It is far superior to the Beringer!!!!! One of the best values in recording gear and since you are NOT going to buy that damned sonic maximizer you now have enough for a $200 RNC.

[frobie]

Thanks so much guys...I am definitely going to get the RNC. You guys are awesome. Also, did you have any suggestions for a decent mic pre amp? You've sold me, forget the snoic maximizer...that's why i am asking questions, cause I don't know. I have been having trouble with brite sounds..I just keep using the Roland' compressing effect, and the EQ'ing it till is sounds better. Thanks so much guys...if you could think of a decent mic pre amp for around 200 that would be great...thanks again
frobie