advice please

[Joroy]

Ok, I already posted this in the "Newbie" section, but I figured I might get some more replies here.

Well, I'm finally ready to setup a studio in my basement, and I was just wondering if I'm missing any components. I really know nothing about recording, so any advice or info is appreciated. Well, this is what I've kinda figured would be the best for a beginning home recorder like myself - I'm going to get ProTools Digi 001, a Beringer MX602A mixer (wondering if it would be worth it to get a MX1604A which comes with 4 mic preamps as opposed to 2), 2 Shure SM57 mics with Shure C50J cables, and (here's where I'm really unsure) maybe Alesis M1 Active MK2 monitors (I'm not sure if I want to spend $500 for monitors - any suggestions for other, cheaper, powered monitors?). Like I said, I don't know much at all about this, and this is what I've put together just from doing some research myself. I'm really concerned about the monitors and a mixer. I don't want to spend more than $200 on a mixer. Any suggestions besides the Beringer? I've heard that Yamaha NS 10 monitors are good, but I can't find prices for them anywhere. Thanks in advance!

Jordy (having to post under "Joroy" because someone stole my name!)

 

[RWhite]

Actually I don't know of any other mixers available for less than $200.

Check out Nutdotnets post on "Need suggestions on what to buy..." to see my take on Behringer mixers (in short I think they are decent for their very low price).

Whenever you are putting together a package on a tight budget you have to compromise somewhere. But at the same time your total system is only as good as its weakest link. This problem is solved best by research and planning, which is exactly what you are doing now.

My take is to try to buy stuff that will be useful for a long time. For example, I think SM-57 are great mics to start out with - they sound decent and are very durable. Later as you get more $$$ you will buy some good condenser mics (which are better for things like vocals) but your SM-57 will still be useful because its a good mic for drums and some instruments (like electric guitar amps).

A little planning now will go a long way later. In order you want to ....
1) Figure out your budget (and don't forget "little" things like cords which add up)
2) Figure out what minimal features you require - things like "how many tracks do I HAVE to be able to record at one time - 2? 4? More?
3) Figure out what hardware fits #1 and #2
4) Shop for the best deal (remember service and support count as well as price)

Good luck...