Multitrack choices...

[69'vette]

I posted in the Newbie section, but I thought I'd give it a try here as well. I'm in the early stages of building a home studio with the goal of having release quality recordings. I plan on a mix of analog and 24 bit digital. On the analog side I'm looking for advice on 1/2" 8 tracks. I'm leaning toward an Otari 5050 MKIII, but I'm wondering if a there's a Tascam or other machine that would be better. (I like that the Otari is +4 input.)

I have an Otari MTR 10 1/4" half track for mastering. I like the idea of mixing to tape and having the mastering done by someone who'll know what the hell they're doing. Should I stick with this? Or try and find a 1/2" half track? or..?

As you can see, my head is spinning and that light headed feeling is only fun for so long! Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks all...

[Fangar]

If you can swing an ADAT, you would be very happy. 8 Tracks there. Also it is a staple in most mastering studios allowing for simple transfer.

Fangar

[smellyfuzz]

Tascam is not even in the same class as an Otari.

I own The MX5050-8 mk3, as I learn more & more how to use it
I am always surprised that it sound "BETTER" then the average
compact disk.

Not to mention its superior sound over most of the brand new CPU crap everyone raves about on this website.

[69'vette]

To Smellyfuzz and everyone else,

Thanks for all the advice. After all consideration, I've decided to start with an Otari 5050 MKIII 1/2" 8. I was told by some to hold out for a 1", but I can't afford it right now, and I'd rather get this ball rolling now. I can always save up for upgrades! I found a unit that will be a great start at a fair price, so I'm good to go. I've also decided on the Allen & Heath WZ16 2DX mixer. I found a good price on a new one, so I'll order it this week. I'm not sure about noise reduction yet... I'll be recording everything from John Denver type stuff (acoustic guitar, live strings, etc.) to loud, rude rock & roll. I've seen some Dolby units (A & SR) out there, but it's about a 50/50 split as to who says they even use it. I like a nice hot signal, so I don't know yet. Any opinions here???

For mics, I'm leaning toward either a Rode NTK, or two NT1000's to start. Any thoughts? I have two SM58s, and will also pick up a 57. I have no outboard gear. (One attraction to the Mix Wizard was the effects.) For more effects, I like the idea of picking up last years model from other, less economically challenged folks who are "upgrading"...

I've loved reading through all the posts here and at a few other similar sites. Lot's of familiar names... This is the most excitement I've had about anything other than my wife in years! (Don't tell her I said so, but even that's a close call...)

Anyway, thanks again.