Complete N00b, Need some Advice: #2

[nickd123]

OK, so now that I've thought through it, I've set myself a budget. I've already got a 20" Intel iMac with 2GB of RAM and all the musical instruments/mics, so I need to get some gear.

I'm going to want to be able to record a 4-5 piece band, as well as some acoustic tracks, so what should I buy next? My budget for my total first setup is 1,000 USD.

Thanks,
nickd123

 

[bennychico11]

so you need:
an audio interface that allows you to plug microphones into it (or a small mixer of some sort if you want to go that direction)...
software...
speakers.

This can take care of the first two all in one:
http://www.zzounds.com/a--2676837/item--ALEMULTIMIX12FW (4 microphone inputs)
or
http://www.zzounds.com/a--2676837/item--ALEMULTIMIX16FW (8 mic inputs)

Then you just need speakers and cables.

Just a start. there are lots of other options out there.

 

[cake1122]

a firewire mixer would not be a bad choice either. do u have software yet?

if not u can get a firepod which is an interface that comes with cubase then get a small control surface all that for around 1000

 

[nickd123]

I have software. So let's assume I'm picking up the 12 channel multimix. That would total out at $450 which leaves $550 left to spend. Any particular items that you suggest I buy with that money? Any particular models?

 

[bennychico11]

if you want better quality go with a dedicated preamp or two.
or instead, maybe some nice plugins if you're going to keep it all in the box.

OR...a new mic

 

[nickd123]

OK, I'll look into that. Something like a nice mic preamp probably.