I am right in the middle of doing exactly what you are (band wants to record in the basement - great "nonluggable" computer in my office). So, I bought a LX20 to start recording with - at $1295new - a $700 savings from the XT. I chose this vs the XT because I knew I would eventually want another unit of some sort (ADAT or Hard Disk Recorder) to complete my portability goal of not moving my computer. I could always upgrade with that next unit if desired. I will use the savings to buy an interface and edit software. So, for me, the next issue was interface unit, edit software and "the next unit question".
I am torn between buying another ADAT (one machine in the basement, one at my computer - then I just carry tapes + get 16 tracks live when I want it); or, the hard disk options (either inside the computer or stand alone). I think I have eliminated the stand alone (fosteck, roland etc) options and am going for straight to the computer hard disk. This leads to - Interfacing. I am assuming PC-Win95 or 98 platform. Options I have narrowed to are the Alesis Edit card, MOTU 2408 or waiting for the Digi001 package for Win98 (avail 3/31??).
The forum gave me great info on the MOTU 2408 and Alesis Edit options. I would love feedback on the Digi 001/Pro Tools LE option. Help?
This forum is excellent - I agree. Very helpful to novices like me. ....I feel a song coming on.