8-tracks and potential alternatives

[Sweep]

I'm going away to France this summer for three weeks, and I'd really like to be able to use it to get some music down - separate from my everyday routine. The priority would not be getting a really clean recording, but just getting stuff down, experimenting artistically etc.

I have an SM-58 and a condenser mic available. I've been looking at 8-tracks and they are quite expensive - what is the best affordable option to go for? Am I better off looking at different equipment?

[pohaku]

OK. I'll ask the obvious question: given your stated intentions of just trying to get something down, how many tracks do you REALLY need?

If you only really need two tracks, the possibilities expand significantly.

[Sweep]

Well, I probably wouldn't need 8 tracks. I'd like the flexibility of 4 track, preferably though - but I'm interested in the 2 track alternatives.

[StevenT]

I've had a Yamaha MT50 since the mid 90's or so. It's a TRUE 4-track that records on standar cassettes. Quality is amazingly good, it's SMALL and portable, has noise reduction, and can record up to 4 inputs at the same time (unlike the newer models that are all being sold limit you to 1 or 2 tracks at a time).

I also have 8-track reel-to-reel, a kork d888 (digital 8-track) recorder, and a 64-track daw... but I will NEVER get rid of my MT50. It is great for traveling and dumb easy to use!

I've seen them for as little as $75 on craigslist - so hunt around - you'll be pleased!

There is a REAL cheap one on ebay now!

I've also heard good things about the MT120
and there is one on ebay now too!

good luck!