Analog Newbie needs help with Tascam 38 and Tascam M2600MKII24... Where to go?

[Middlecreek]

I'm a bit of newbie as far as recording...but have been playing electric and acoustic forever. I started out on a few years ago on a cheep 8 track Fostex digital... interesting, yes, but sounded horrible. That said, I'm sure I haven't come close to all the potential of the crappie sounding Fostex. So a few months ago I got a Fostex 280 and a bunch of cassettes... The analog sound I got from it is amazing cositering it on a cassette but after a bounce...well I knew I wanted more, but that old 280 really likes the red zone! So, I got all excited and got a good deal on Tascam 38 recorder and then a Tascam M2600 MkII 24... Now I'm in real trouble, the MkII 24 looks like a 747 cockpit. But, I want to do this (analog recording thing) so that's why I'm here!

So, I have really jumped in... I bought the reel to reel but needed a mixer so I ended up with the M2600MKII. I do have a 30' by 15' room to use. The 38 seems to work just great and I have gotten great information on the from Home Recording on this machine. But wow... The M2600 MKII is a bit scary! As I'm new here can anyone guide to in a good direction for learning the M2600 or similar unit? I have ordered a book (Analog Recording by D. Simons) and it looks like a good start but this mixer, well, where is a better place to start other than just plugging in the cables and punching buttons like the typewriter monkey I am? Anyone out there have some good visuals - diagrams advise... Anything anyone can throw my way would be very much appreciated!

Thanks!

 

[ron-e-g]

Welcome Middlecreek. Two words..user manual. It will get you familiar with the unit, and it's intended purpose. Next best..time to experiment. That recording book should help too. Although I'm not familiar with that Author. Another good thing is to try to foresee what you need, want or expect from these two pieces of gear. Not always easy!
But in my experience, it would have saved me a lot of money and time. Buying unnecessary, or not useful gear, and cables ect.
Best wishes!

 

[famous beagle]

The Musician's Guide to Home Recording, by Peter McIan, would be very helpful to you. Good luck!