Another Newbie Needs Help

[stevieK]

Hi, I just have a couple of specific questions. A couple of years ago, I purchased Magix home studio software. I think it's the 2004 version.

I don't have a compatable sound card. I have a dell that runs XP. I plan to do vocals and guitar&keyboard tracks.

Is there a decent sound card for around $100 that will work with Magix? I'm just doing this as a hobbie so I don't know a lot of the technical jargon. I just want something that sounds good and doesn't require a PhD in computer science to set up

Also, I read that mic inputs can be tricky. I have an older electrovoice mic with a standard phone jack. What do I need to make it work?

Thanks for your help!

 

[mikemorgan]

Magix is a good program. Any soundcard that is capable of simultaneous in and out should work. Your Magix application should not put up any fight over which sound card you use. Your computer, however may object to some pci soundcards. I'd like to suggest some low end cards here, but need to know more about your computer setup.
Most people thesee days just buy a USB external soundcard or firewire version. I think M-audio has an external USB version for around $100, but that is the absolute low end of the external soundcard barrel.

 

[stevieK]

Hi Mike,

Thanks for the quick reply! What's PCI? I really don't know! I'm a complete novice. The last time I recorded I had an old fostex 4 track tape machine so my technical knowledge is somewhat dated.

I have to wait until I get home to get all the info on my PC. I'll post it tomorrow.

Also, is it really that hard to use a mic with PC sound cards? I do have a guitar amp with a line out, but I read on the FAQ's re: sound cards that they may not work well.

Thanks again, I really do appreciate your help.

Regards
Steve

 

[TimOBrien]

Good guide and recomendations here:

http://www.tweakheadz.com/soundcards_for_the_home_studio.htm

 

[boogieman481]

PCI is a type of slot inside your computer that you can use to add devices such as sound cards, modems, network cards...etc.

Most of the time, if you are using distortion or overdrive you don't want to use the line out from your amp. You will get a much better sound if you mic the amp.