Best Computer Recording Setup

[drenghdndvtm]

I am interested in recording every instrument directly. Would like to record with at least 8 drum mikes, lead guitar, rhythm guitar, bass, vocals, etc. I have done a little research and I've come up with either getting a mixer to plug the mikes into, and then go to a soundcard/breakout bob like the Aardvark Direct Pro Q10. Or maybe just go directly to the Q10. I would probably have to buy two Q10's to be able to connect all of those instruments. Sonar 3 Producer Edition seems like a great program to use to accomplish recording and mixing tasks.

If anybody has any suggestions to improve this in cost or othewise, please feel free!

 

[stonepiano]

In order to recommend something, we would need to know:

-How many simultaneous tracks you need
-Budget
-What do you already own

Your post is also a tad convoluted.

When you say you'd like to record every instrument directly, I take that to mean without microphones. Using direct boxes and going line out of keyboards means staying "in the box" or going direct.

Then, the next sentence says you need 8 drum microphones, etc. This would not be direct.

What I presume you meant was you'd like to record each instrument separately.

If you'd like to record 8 discrete mics for drums, one for lead guitar, one for rhythm, one for bass and one for vocals and do it all simultaneously, you're already talking soundcards with 12 separate ins. Unfortunately, they mostly come in 8 ins or 16 ins. This will end up being very expensive. Are you prepared to drop a few grand on this? How about $10K?

Sonar is a powerful and easy to use program. I recommend it for anyone learning multi-tracking.

I'll check back to see if you break it down a little further.

 

[drenghdndvtm]

I would want/need the following simultaneous sources recorded:
Kick
Snare
2 rack toms
1 floor tom
High Hat Mic
Two overhead mics
Lead Guitar
Rhythm Guitar
Bass Guitar
Vocals

I already own a computer, but I would probably end up getting a new computer specifically for recording. I hope that helps you help me out!

I'm just trying to find some other options from someone more knowledgable than myself.

I really appreciate the help by the way!