advice on korg d-1600 vs. mac with GarageBand

[floppsybunny]

i had been considering buying a Kord D-1600 portable multitracker, 24-bit recording...does anyone have any experience with that model?

i have also just had a friend recently tell me that buying a Mac with GarageBand is a much better way to go...i've also heard good things about ProTools...

so which way is better? my main concern is that with these computer programs processing speed becomes an issue and it isn't really with the portable studio...being able to manipulate sounds is a plus on computers but isn't the sound quality generally better on a dedicated portable studio?

i think i can learn to use whatever i get so useability isn't the issue, sound quality and the ability to make a good, tight mix is the issue...

any advice, thoughts, suggestions welcome!!!

 

[ErichS]

This is a very broad question. It is difficult to give a diffinative answer. I recently began recording with a korg d1600mkii. For the past 4 years I've used a PC for recording (Yamaha DS2416 audio interface).

Heres my take.

Where a computer really shines is editing. Having full screen video and using a mouse is much simpler and intitutiave than puncing buttons and navigating menus as on the stand alone systems.

There is no sequencing on the Korg so if you dont have real drums, creating interesting drum parts can be challenging.

Where a stand alone system really shines is tracking. To me, it is much more intuitave to set up inputs and adjust levels on a system with faders and trim knobs than using a mouse and an image on the computer screen.

Also, the korg is relatively quiet compared to a PC so you don't pick up as much machine noise when using mics (assuming you are playing and recording in the same room).

The pre-amps on the korg are not too good.
The insert and master effects on the korg are useable but not outstanding.

The korg is a very nice stand alone system. If I could only use an all in one, stand alone system for audio production, I could definately get buy with the korg, but I prefer to send the tracks I've capured on the korg to my PC for editing and masrtering.

 

[Brightside]

I've been using a Korg D16 for a few years now & like any system, it has it's pros & cons (versus a computer).

In general, I agree with what ErichS said: PC for editing/stand alone for tracking (especially if you need your set up to be mobile).

I don't like the Korg pres either but you can always use better/outboard pres if you want. The internal effects are very usable without being great.

I've actually just ordered a PC system but I'll be keeping the Korg & it will still play a part in my new set up. Best of both worlds.

Scott

 

[floppsybunny]

thanks for the input...

i should mention i am starting from scratch with equipment and am leaning towards buying a korg d-1600...it sounds like for what i am doing (recording garage bands, multiple guitars, drums with about 4 mics) i really need the console system first for recording to multiple tracks and maybe supplement it later with more sophisticated editing tools ie pro tools...

as for the quality of effects, i have plenty of good outboard effects already minus a good compressor which i may end up buying if i don't like korg's onboard one...

am i headed down the right path?

 

[Brightside]

Sounds like a standalone console like the Korg would be ideal for you just now. There are many different types around so it's really about choosing the right one for you - but I'd suggest that the Korg will do a job for you.
The editing on the Korg is pretty good & touchscreen is absolutely fantastic.

I'm not sure how many aux outs the Korg D1600 has (for using your outboard gear) so I'd check that out before you spend your cash - my D16 has only one aux out.

Holding off getting a computer based editor/recorder may be a good thing - it will let you work under some limitations meantime & this is actually a good thing.

Hope this helps

Scott

 

[HAGPLUS4]

Haven't done much with interfacing with other folks who record...... Your asking about what I've been up to for the last couple of years. So,....

Sorry, I'm only doing the job with the D8. Not one of the bigger, newer boys! Pre-amps kinda suck, but have gotten the job done. Having S/PDIF in and out is what I feel is the shining point.

That being said, I'd rather do it all analog. But, face it, few of us hobbiests have that kind of money. That is, to do that kind of art correctly.

I'm a Mac enthusiest. I have been for years, and many operating systems. Now I got the latest stuff they are hockin'. OS X.3, GarageBand, iTunes and all. Though I tend to buy used boxes(Power PC and G3) It's fun. Does take a bit of applying one-self. Not tough, actually quite easy to plug yourself into and let your mind soar.... Lots of possabilities I've never had handed to me before. Heck, I don't play sax. I don't really like computers...... the damn boxes !

I found a ADS USB interface for less than $40, So, now I can stay digital. Not introduce distortions due to multiple conversions to analog. Took a little more than plug and play.... But, not too much. The interface lets me S/PDIF in and out. Groovy trick for less than forty bucks.

Mac rocks. No extra software added. 3rd party??? All works off of Core Audio, built into OS X (ten) "for you pc minds" Drivers???? The secret to LESS hassles might just involve "Keeping It Simple". My goofy lookin box and an OS. Sound Studio is an app that Mac packaged with the new box bought for the school aged bunch in my home. It sure is nice turning the 4 year old loose on any of my Macs and not worry she's going to throw out the system as well as projects I've put hours in on.

Viruses???? My recording stuff is ALL used (unless I care to use my wifes G4 eMac) wich we bought to record DVD videos of the kids.

Ya, I'm a fool for this. But I'll buy it again. Someday I may need a new multitracker to replace the KORG, but, I'm willing to bet I'll get plenty of hours of intense recording time out of it yet (not bad for $200). This gear is kinda old tech, but it sounds like folks are still using 'em out there.

I'll be looking to a good mixer with pre's next, and I ain't in no hurry. Right now I got a SoundCraft GigRac to utilize, helps to get the most from the condensers. My Korg don't support the Phantom power. I should mention, too, I got my hands on a damaged Symetrix (free) voice processor, got it fixed, compression anyone?

Lessons learned? Study your needs, take your time, and keep your eyes peeled for good junk. Bad junk can work in a pinch and teaches lots along the way.

 

[ssscientist]

Bad junk can work in a pinch and teaches lots along the way.

Finally! One true thing! I can log off happy now, secure in the knowledge that the smart people are in charge on this board, even though not in the country at large...