Putting together a simple PC setup

[Norwoodz]

I'm helping my dad put together a small studio setup. We already have monitors and an amp. What I think I'm looking for is a PC (probably a desktop) and a usb interface.

This will be used for pretty basic recordings - a few guitars, bass, vocals, sometimes drums. We're looking to stay on the cheaper side of things but I want to make sure there aren't any major bottlenecks. We're not looking to make huge projects with tons of synths and effects or anything like that. I'll keep doing some research but any quick suggestions of what to look at or what to avoid would be great. Thanks.

 

[mjbphotos]

PC - any current PC is likely to be fine, get a minimum of 4G RAM, 6 or 8 is better.

Audio interface - what is the maximum number of separate tracks you would like to be able to record simultaneously? And what is your budget?

 

[sturoc]

Let's see in order to future proof yourselves You should get a decent PC.
Some specs would be:
Quad core ....doesn't have to be the latest Intel creation, you can find good deals on turn key or barebones PCs
If your savvy enough going with a barebones or build-your-own kit package will save you $$$ and then you can add on what you need to make it a real good DAW (digital audio workstation).
The i-5 cpu is fine and like 'mjbphotos' mentioned get a minimum 8 gigs of ram so you don't bottleneck any processes. i.e effects etc.
IF you go used, even the older intel Q series cpu will work great.
Depends on budget -which you have not told us yet -

Keep in mind that some DAW software has been tried and true tested with certain OS: Cubase /Cakewalk Sonar with Windows is great- Logic with Mac OS great too.
Again depending on your budget You can buy the software outright but remember they may already come bundled with alot of interfaces, not the full on version but a more trimmed down software that will get you going.

There's a flood of interfaces these days some good -some crap- some excellent .
And as with anything quality is price. I wouldn't go for a 2 channel unit though because you will quickly find yourself wanting more.
Especially when you want to record even a small band or friends playing.
And look into USB 3.0 interface as that is the latest fastest transfer speed for USB or you can go Firewire if you get a good deal on that type of interface All it takes is adding a Firewire card onto your motherboard Make sure its Texas Instrument chipset on the FW card though.

Brands to check out Tascam, Steinberg, Focusrite,
I have heard ZOOM is okay

Stay away from Line 6 , Behringer.....Your inviting headaches and noise.

You guys are gonna have a good learning curve ahead so read read read and watch some online tutorials and last but not least Ask Questions here and elseware. There's alot to learn and then put to use . But after you finish that first mixdown to final song you will be proud, confident and hooked !
Above all else have fun !

 

[snatchman]

I'm helping my dad put together a small studio setup. We already have monitors and an amp. What I think I'm looking for is a PC (probably a desktop) and a usb interface.

This will be used for pretty basic recordings - a few guitars, bass, vocals, sometimes drums. We're looking to stay on the cheaper side of things but I want to make sure there aren't any major bottlenecks. We're not looking to make huge projects with tons of synths and effects or anything like that. I'll keep doing some research but any quick suggestions of what to look at or what to avoid would be great. Thanks.

Hello..If you need a low budget used PC with quality results, consider the Dell T-3400 series..Very good PC.!! I just picked up one ( dual core 3.0ghz/8g ram/550 w/psu!!) for less than $200 and it works great..Very well made and robust.Good luck..

 

[mjbphotos]

Hello..If you need a low budget used PC with quality results, consider the Dell T-3400 series..Very good PC.!! I just picked up one ( dual core 3.0ghz/8g ram/550 w/psu!!) for less than $200 and it works great..Very well made and robust.Good luck..

Good luck with your Dell! I've had 3 die a quick death at home (hard drive and/or motherboard) - they don't make them like they used to. Even my work place has gone away from Dells now.

 

[snatchman]

Good luck with your Dell! I've had 3 die a quick death at home (hard drive and/or motherboard) - they don't make them like they used to. Even my work place has gone away from Dells now.

What series/model Dells did you have..?..No problems here so far..