computer recording setup

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dan_k

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Alright, I am a GIANT newb in this field so my question is fairly broad but hopefully not too hard to answer.

I am looking for a way to record 8 tracks (of, say, XLR input) simultaneously to hard drive so that editing can be done on each individual track after recording (eg separate files). 16 tracks even?

What sort of setup of both hardware and software is required to do this? You can infer from my lack of knowledge that I would be more inclined to do this cheaply at least at first in learning. However, I also want it to sound good (haha).

Thanks!
 
You need an audio interface that has at least eight audio inputs, something like the M Audio Delta 1010, Echo Layla, or some of the MOTU (Mark of the Unicorn) units... These units cost upwards of $600 or more.

.. and you need recording software that lets you record more than just a couple of channels at a time. All the pro packages would do -- SONAR, Cubase, etc. This adds anothe couple of hundred bucks.

What about sources? Do you have a mixer for getting microphone-level signals up to line level? You'll probably need a mixer if you're doing anything with mics... more $$$...
 
mixers, 1010s

I could have sworn I saw a thread around here comparing and contrasting the virtues of the various interfaces you mentioned. However, I can't seem to find it now... A few questions.

Anyone know the difference between the 1010 and 1010 lt? Besides the price I mean.

And do all go well with PCs? I am not inclined to puchase a mac.

And the process for connecting a mixer to the interface.. would be XLR to mixer.. Then each channel's mixed output to the interface channel?

Thanks again
 
I have done my homework and determined that the main difference between the two is non-balanced inputs? Correct me if I am wrong. Will this create static if the cables from the mixer to the 1010lt are short enough?
 
Unbalanced input won't be a problem unless you are running a long cable. You can connect any balanced source to unbalanced input, makes no difference, the only scary thing about unbalanced cables or inputs is that they have a tendency to pick up more hum than a balanced one. If you are using short length cables you should be fine.
 
huh?

hey, i just saw the post and i have a question

i have my mixer connected to my pc via a rca/audio cable.
i record using cool edit
can i record more than one track and then edit each one of the tracks or do i need something else?
 
also, the 1010 has better converters than the 1010lt....the 1010lt has really good ones, just not as good as the 1010......
 
Another significant difference is that the LT has a pair of mic preamps too.

Also, the 1010 has that rackmount box, which houses the converters outside of the computer, and makes connecting and routing much simpler to deal with tnam the hydra-like clump of connectors srouting out of the 1010LT.
 
My preferred method for you to check out...

Check on ebay for the an Alesis Studio 32 mixer (16 channels of XLR preamps) and a "Mark of the Unicorn 2408 Mk 2 core" (search "MOTU" on ebay under musical instruments). This is a good place to start and will leave you with plenty of room for expansion in the future. The MOTU system gives you 8 balanced ¼" simultaneous inputs and outputs as well as spdif out and 24 lightpipe (adat) ins/outs. All of the processing is done on the PCI-324 card (which comes with the core system and not with the expansions) and allows you to connect up to 3 MOTU modules on one machine (for example, the 24i gives you 24 balanced ¼" ins on 1U). I have this running on an old athelon 500mhz machine and it doesn't hiccup due to that pci card. Generally you can pick up a core MOTU system for about $250-$350 and the single modules for $150-$250.
 
multitrack pc recording

this is the big question. how to 8 tracks (or 16) into a pc. there is no truly cheap answer. most soundcards have 1 sterio in. thats it!
with a cheap!?!? 8 in soundcard(500-800$)
a cheap mixer(300-700$) plus 4 or 5 cheap mics 100-200$ each..(400-800+$)...plus audio software that is compatible with your chosen card(200-400$) you can have a setup with a very modest quality for between 1400$-2500$ yikes! and all of this is assuming you have a cracking pc that can handle all the tracks plus plugins etc...another1500-2000$ wow...that is a LOT of bread man....
Instead, try to make due with track by track recording, get a mixer with 8-16 channels (400-800$) and record your multiple sources with mics or direct to 1 sterio track, sure you can't truly edit individual levels after BUT! if you get everything miked up and adjust levels to mix well before you hit the red button you've saved youself 1000$ plus everything cant be front and center right? do your rythem and percussion drums bass ryth guit etc... on the sterio track. save anything special (vocals, lead guit, loops, for track by track, spend xtra cash on QUALITY mic pre
's and a QUALITY sterio soundcard with QUALITY AD/DA converters
 
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