Computer or studio in a box?

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fattmudge

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Which way should I go? :confused: Are computers really the best way to go or is a top of the line SIAB system (like the roland vs 2480) equally as good...I don't plan on using much MIDI applications or anything like that, but if I was to get a SIAB, are there any plug-ins that would allow me to incorporate the benefits of using a computer into a system such as the vs 2480...Of course money, and the fact that I don't have much of it, will be contributing factors so........what is the cheapest route????? (without skimping on quality of course)

All input is hugely appreciated.
 
Well, there's a lot of factors involved with what you chose, but coming from a 1680 (yeeeeeeears ago) to a PC based DAW, i'd recommend the PC route simply for the flexibility and modular aspects; you can make it anything you want, change it, add to it, etc. Because of that, you can start out quite modestly price-wise, and add things as you need them (where a stand-alone is a one-shot deal)...
Of course, if you're saying "without skimping on quality" and you really mean it, you're going to need to spend 1000's upon 1000's of dollar$ (and that's not even counting your room!) ;)
 
I'm also a proponent of the PC DAW. Granted, I don't really have experience with standalone units, so my opinion may not be fully accurate or fleshed out. But, as Dr. Biscuits stated, with a PC you have limitless upgradability ("limitless" of course dictated by price and technology). You can purchase new plugins or even get some decent free ones. You can integrate with other software easily (I use Sonar in conjunction with Reason and I swear by it). However, it all does tend to get pricey, so I guess the big question is just how much are you willing to spend? And do you have a capable PC already?
 
Flux said:
Let this be a lesson to you. :cool:
Click to expand...


huh? :confused:

I'm trying to understand your point.
Don't buy a car because in 20 years you won't be able to sell it for as much as you bought it for?

It sounds like you're basically saying don't waste your time buying any recording gear.
 
I personally recommend computers for recording...

Flux, your interpretations were........?
 
...weell, I thought it might get a chuckle... because in the final analysis it's makes no difference which platform you choose since (unlike many instruments, certain vintage audio gear, or even some cars) both will become as nothing with the passage of time. There, I had to explain my joke... or was it a philosophical world view? ... or perhaps it was because I owned both at one time...

Anyway, if we're getting serious here at the homerecording comedy club ladies and gentlemen, then I would have to say that, economics aside, it is a valid question. My take? Since there's really not much theroretical difference beween the two as far as audio quality is concerned, then it's all about personal preference.

I'm old school, and if I were to be in a position to have to make a choice, from scratch, with a limited budget, I'd choose the all-in-one. I guess I never transitioned well into the virtual studio world. I find 'mousing' around on a screen to be non-intuitive. I much prefer the tactile world of knobs and faders. I like the analog 'feel' of dialling in an EQ (as opposed to typing in numbers), truly performing a cross-fade (with faders!) and physically smacking the record or pause buttons. Old fashioned, I know, but there you go.

Having said that, because I'm getting back into home recording (yet again) and because I already have a board and FX and everything else, my next purchase will be another 'state of the art' computer, but I will look at it as more of a tape deck than a DAW.
 
i'm getting into this convo a little late i know but i just have an irresitable urge to drop a penny or two....

i use both --siab and a daw platform

room quality is the only downside to my reasoning...i can take my box and record quit easily anywhere i have to, being how thats my situation(nother story)and take it home and edit, mix,and master on my free time via daw.

i'm still working out the kinx on the daw side of things.

all in all...why not have your cake and eat it to?
 
get a laptop and you can have the same (if not better) portability as the siab.

fattmudge, do you already own a computer? would you use the computer for audio only, or can it double as typical home use type PC?

for me, the decision was pretty simple since I already had a computer. All I needed was an interface. Most interfaces come bundled with multi-tracking software so thats not a seperate investment there (also there are cheap multi-tracking software alternatives like Reaper and n-track). You can get some good free plug-ins too.

How good are the bundled effects that come with the better SIABs? How do they compare with the better VST and DX plugs? How good are the preamps?

If you already have a decent PC, you can be up and running for the price of your interface or soundcard. I spent about $400 or so on a FW device so that I could record a bunch of mics at once (for drums). If you don't need a bunch of inputs, you can get something for alot less.
 
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