computer recording....Mbox and such

[cere8]

I have about $500. Here is what I want to accomplish. I want to be able to track guitar, bass and do vocals. The drums I want to do with a machine or a program unless there is something easier or better.

I would like to be able to do it through my computer of which I know it is powerfull enough for anything. I run windows xp. I have a basic soundblaster card that I would eventually probably replace.

I have heard some about digi Mbox. It seems like pretty much everything I need. Is there anything else similar to it or is there a better way of going about achieving the same thing. Also I noticed on the board that there are Cakewalk forums etc. but no ProTools, is there a reason?

I appreciate any and all questions that you answer and let me know if you need more info. Thanks.

 

[Phyl]

There are quite a few units out there with the same functionality and quality as the M-Box, it's really a question of what is important to you.

What I didn't like about M-box was:

1) Only two mic inputs

2) USB interface with the computer

3) Limited number of companies selling after market plug-ins

The up side is that you get a lite version of Pro-tools software.

Go to http://www.sospubs.co.uk/search/query.asp and type digidesign into the search window. It should pull up a review of the unit done by Sound on Sound magazine.

 

[cere8]

So what would be a comparable or better product than the Mbox at a comparable price. I know they are out there but I just don't know what they are. The Mbox is the only one I've really heard of. Thanks

 

[Phyl]

No problem - the other manufactures that come to mind are:

http://www.aardvarkaudio.com/aasd-v1/index.html
http://www.m-audio.com/
http://www.edirol.com
http://www.markoftheunicorn.com

These are all computer based soultions. Here's some standalone units:

http://www.tascam.com/index.html
http://www.korg.com/gear/default.asp?menu=elTwo
http://www.yamaha.com/yamahavgn/CDA...TYP%3DPRODUCT%26VNM%3DLIVE%26AFLG%3DY,00.html

All the computer based solutions have similar specs as far as functionality and noise floor etc. You can do a google search for reviews on the various units to get a feel what will work for you.


Digest this info and then hit us with some more questions.