Digital Studio for $1000 - any agreement on the best buy?

[Brian C Kent]

I've been looking around for a digital studio to replace my Tascam 424 MKIII analog porta-studio. I'd like to be able to record at least 4 tracks simultaneously - much like my Tascam (with both 1/4 and XLR inputs for each channel - though this may be a bit much to ask for). No need for a CD burner - I've got one.

I've noted the Korg D12, as well as the Roland VS890HD.
I'm sure there's a bunch of equipment at this price point for what I'm looking for, but I'm new to this field. Any general agreement on the best digital studios in the $1,000 price range?

This is my FIRST posting, so I thank you in advance!
Brian

[battleminnow]

I am a huge fan of the Korg units. I have a D1600 that replaced my MK3 as well. IMHO, the Korg is less of a learning curve for the same or better quality. As far as the price range, I think you would be hard pressed for all of those features in one unit, but I too have the same needs, which is why I saved up for the D1600.

Pete

[Guernica]

If you are still partial to Tascam, try the 788...... ive got one and am very pleased........ ......under 800 bones too!!!

[Guernica]

......oops, not XLR inputs though. Also, no digital input.....(a real nice thing to have)

[The Green Hornet]

Yo KENT of Clark:

1000$ pezzutos will get you nice.

2000$ pezzutos will get you VERY NICE.

Depends on the quality your ear hears.

Headroom on some units is not very large; on other units it is huge.

I'm not going to mention any units but you should listen to as many as possible and get what your ears tell you is cool.

Needless to say a good mic, etc., et. al. are essential too.

Whatever unit you choose, be ready to do battle with the manual.

Also, consult this site for help; many nice folks here who have helped me understand my unit.


Have fun,
Green Hornet

[Brian C Kent]

Hey everyone,
Thanks for the kind replies. yo Green Hornet - indeed, sage advise; I think one needs to put in the time to listen to as many units, and figure out what's important for your individual recording needs. That Tascam 788 sounds cool - wonder what I'm giving up my not having XLR's (and having to rely on the supplied XLR to Phone converters) - any ideas?
Thanks again!
Brian

[darrin_h2000]

Akai Dps 16, at mars for 899.00

Heck the dps 12 at 500.00 has xlr and phantom and puts the 8 track trashcan to shame.

[KenL1]

The Zoom MRS-1044CD fits the bill for me, but it only has 2 inputs. Has phantom power for your condensers though. And it sounds GREAT!! Paid 999.95 from American Musical Supply. If you could get by with less inputs you might check it out. I have been playing and recording for 16 years and I can say the Zoom was worth the money for my applications.