Conga,Bongo,Timbale recording help.

[jazzzione]

I will use mainly percussion instruments (conga, bongo, and timbale) to record via mic. I will do all the playing --so one track at a time. I will purchase a drum machine down the line. Now I think I can record at least 8 tracks on this setup.

I have ordered Cakewalk Home Studio 2004. I will also order M-Audio 2496 Audiophile sound card, and Behringer UB1204FX Pro Eurorack. I will use SM 57 mics. Now is this all that I will need? Thanks

[mikeh]

That should be enough (for now) to get sounds in and out of your computer. 57's work very well on percussion (assuming you plan to close mic)

I don't have hands on with M-Audio - so I'm not sure, but you may want/need some mic pre's - although something low cost like the Art MP would worm, there are many decent low cost pre's on the market (Grace, RNP, etc)

[jazzzione]

Two questions:

1. What is close mic?

2. And why do I need pre-amps?

I think pre-amps boost the mic signal--correct?

[jazzzione]

Okay understand what close mic is now.

[mikeh]

It sounds like you understand what close mic is - but just to clerify, it simply means having the mic placed close to the sound to pick up the immediate sound, rather than a mic placed further away which also picks up the sound as it reflects in the room.

You are correct that at it's most basic application, a preamp does boost the signal. Depending on the pre, it can send a very accurate clean representation of the signal (sound) or it can alter (color) the sound. You're M-Audio card likely can serve as a limited preamp and may eliminate the need for a preamp. As I previously indicated, I have never used M-Audio, so I don't know how well it transmits a signal.

If you plan to record vocals, you may still want/need a pre - but you can decide once you hear what your signal flow sounds like. Hold off on the preamp decision for now. If you need one later, they can be as low as $100 (even less).

[jazzzione]

mikeh,
Thanks so much for your help. No singing from me. Maybe some mumbo jumbo to harmonize with my drums. Sounds wierd, but great effect. So the system I propose seems to be on the right track just to get me started. I have a deep learning curve but hell, I have plenty of time.

[boingoman]

If you really have time read these threads and the associated links. Some of the best mic info out there.

http://homerecording.com/bbs/showthread.php?t=27030

http://homerecording.com/bbs/showthread.php?t=105367

Have fun!!

[jazzzione]

Boingoman,
thanks

[jazzzione]

Well I dropped a few bucks today. I got a mackie dfx6, 2496 audiophile card, sm 57 mic, some cables,-- now just waiting for my cakewalk software to arrive. Thanks to all for the help.