Cheapo recording for

[goldstarsteve]

Hi

There are 3-5 of us that play together, piano, sax, vocals, guitar(s). I want to record us so we can hear how we sound and learn from our mistakes. We may also record some solo instuments so we can practice alone. This is all low key throw away stuff for personal use.

I have PC with built in soundcard + a hifi system (integrated amps/speakers). I am ok with the PC and can use sw like Audacity.

I would like to add just a mike at this stage. Can you suggest a single mike? I am based in Israel so may not have all access to all the stuff you guys do. Looking on the Internet I see Behringer XM8500 for $40 which is about my budget - just as an example.

Just to add some perspective - at the moment I use my Sansa Clip MP3 built microphone to record us - so what may be low end for you guys is a big step up for me

 

[CoolCat]

I have used old pc's and do only basic recordings and a great trouble free recording software, ..is Kristal Audio Engine.
It has a very very basic layout which I prefer.

A USB mic might get you going easier, if your pc has a USB port.


Recently I bought a USB Tascam 122 unit $50, and it "loaded up" in a few minutes, which means Kristal detected it. If you know how to load drivers for printers or pc things, the USB audio interface is no different. Sounds like you do.

Kristal is something I downloaded and placed the icon on my desktop.
http://www.kreatives.org/kristal/index.php?section=download


in your situation mic placement will be critical to get a good recording.
I've never tried a USB mic, but I bet its all you need just to get it recorded.

Kristal recognized the USB audio box I have, I don't see why it wouldn't recognize the USB mic the same way.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jj2dsRHiW8Y


$50 USB Mic
http://www.zzounds.com/a--2676837/item--CADU37
Audacity probably will too. The line out on your sc to your hifi linein will work for playback.

 

[moresound]

Google up and take a look at the Samson Zoom H1!!!
I think that this will have what you need for recording your band.

 

[goldstarsteve]

My PC has USB so USB Mike is possible - any reccommendations?

As for Samson Zoom - it looks good but is not available here (Israel) and is out of my budget (up to $50)

 

[moresound]

My PC has USB so USB Mike is possible - any reccommendations?

As for Samson Zoom - it looks good but is not available here (Israel) and is out of my budget (up to $50)

Really gold?
You can't purchase online and have it mailed to you?