Digital multi-track vs. computer?

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jshatkin

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So, I'm finally in the position of being able to build my home studio. Sure, I've got plenty of guitars, a solid bass, a nice digital keyboard, and all of the amp modeling nonsense I'll ever need, but I can't figure out whether I should go digital multi-track (e.g., Tascam 2488 24 track, Yamaha AW 16, or Korg D1600 MKII, etc.) or buy a computer software based program (e.g., ProTools M Box.). Either way, I know I'll need the peripherals (e.g., mics, monitor speakers, etc.). I'm pretty much making music by myself these days, so I don't need to record more than one or possibly two tracks at a time. Also, money is less of a concern than it used to be, so really what I'm looking for is something with lots of options that is relatively easy to get started and doesn't require years of reading before I can plug in. What should I buy? Any ideas about where I can learn more? Thanks.
 
do a search on the forum for "multitrack vs computer," or some variation thereof. There are a shitload of opinions already posted here (as recently as last week) re: this same topic.

good luck.

djfd
 
I have a similar question and am new to this group. I have already decided on a digital multi-track. Have used the Tascam 424 MKII cassette recorder for about a year and am ready to step up to a digital setup. I've pretty much narrowed it down to two units in my price range, those being the Tascam 788 (8 track) or the Korg D1200MKII (12 track). I also am not concerned too much with recording more than a couple tracks at once. So, any ideas out there regarding these two machines?? Does anyone know where I could find reviews of these machines posted?

Thanks
 
Get both. Track and mix with the HDR. Edit and process on the DAW.

Get an HDR that easily lets you export/import tracks. Most of the higher end models offer SCSI, FTP, Firewire and other ways of transferring data.
 
Yea.. Ive been using an Akai DPS16 and mastering to Sound forge... the only advantage to the computer is the ultimate upgrade possibilities...But Id miss the Knobs and faders.
 
YO:

Knobs & Faders? Sounds like my old girlfriend!!!!:p However, you have to know that a SIAB is really a little PC. Can't move around as fast as with a mouse; but, some units now provide a mouse connections -- gets better all of the time.

Two units? One of each? Depends how much time you want to spend on a production.

I like to try and do good stuff; I go into my studio and sit down at the DX-7, crank up the drum box, find a nice groove, record, fill-in, add a few drum shots, go to the EQ, go to the Reverb, go to the mix, go to dynamics, and, Voila, a 3 minute cut has taken about four hours, and I could go back and do virtual tracks and begin again.

I love it. So, the question is, How much time do you have and how far do you want to go. [I know; that's two questions.]


Whichever way you choose to go, you will have fun if you love music.

Green Hornet

:D :p :p :cool: :D :p
 
Hey, everybody, thanks for your thoughts. I had been wanting to go SIAB, and it's nice to hear y'all confirm my original thoughts. So, now the question is which one? I had been thinking about that Yamaha AW 16, but how does it compare to the slightly higher priced KORG D1600 MKII? I can afford the increase if it's worth it. Any thoughts?
 
Yo JS:

Best bet is for you to take a trip to a vendor and get a hands on and ear test.

The AW16 is a popular unit and has a dandy support site up and running by Dinsdale I believe.

The Korgs look slick and probably operate similarly to the Yams and other SIABs.

The computer-based units have better editing I have read here. I don't do much editing -- just do a track over or make a virtual track and pick the best one {s}.

You're bound to have fun whichever model you pick.

Green Hornet:D :p :cool:
 
jshatkin said:
Hey, everybody, thanks for your thoughts. I had been wanting to go SIAB, and it's nice to hear y'all confirm my original thoughts. So, now the question is which one? I had been thinking about that Yamaha AW 16, but how does it compare to the slightly higher priced KORG D1600 MKII? I can afford the increase if it's worth it. Any thoughts?
Click to expand...

The Yamaha is a 16bit unit, while the Korg allows 24bit. I believe the Korgs may have a slightly easier learning curve. You may also want to consider a Fostex VF160 (16 faders, plus a stereo master). It's also a 16bit machine. The operating system is rock solid and is designed to run like a tape machine in that it saves/optimizes the drive as you go -- so data loss is almost unheard of, even in the rare event of a system freeze. Also, drives are easily upgradable, with broad compatability. All this for about $700. (or $800. if you wait for the VF160EX that has a new faceplate).

The new TASCAM 2488 is very price competitive if you're willing to think a little past $1,000.
 
you could....just get a p3 or equivelent comp and run acid pro on it.


for mainly one track at a time, it is perfect. VERY easy to use and the formats are fine for any post mastering. No need for expensive sound card either not that you couldn't utilize it.

protools on the other hand....

if you want to feel like yer part of the club you can use cubase, which is probably better, but takes longer to get going. Acid is pretty darn simple and if you read the manual, you can do whatever you want with it, one track at a time.... ;)
 
JS,

You'll find loads of supportive users for any of these SIABs, so it comes down to tastes and needs. Personally, I believe that (as SOS mag recently wrote) the Yamaha 16g currently leads the crowded pack as a solid stand-alone recorder. Still, if you need 24-bit sound (the 16G is 16-bit, the CD standard format) and can live with the reduced memory space, then you'll need to factor such things into your choice of purchase.

Here's my real point, though: folks moving from analog to digital would be smart to asume that they'll need some weeks/months of easygoing study and practice before they'll be able to produce solid recordings. In fact, coming from a Tascam 414, my first digital recordings (on the Yamaha) sactually ounded *worse* than my former Tascam stuff. Soon, though, I learned how to approach and use such a digital machine--not just the Yamaha, but any digital unit--and my work now sounds (humbly whispered) frickin' great. I couldn't be happier, but the process took some time since the digital world represents a new way of looking at things, regardless of manufacturer. Think of it this way: some months of enjoyable study and practice can yield a lifetime of better recordings on any digital machine--not a bad trade-off, really. If you can take it slowly and have some fun with the process, you'll never even feel much pain. If you rush everything, though, you'll be another poster of "Oh, help me, please!" messages as we all see here from time to time.

Good luck,

J.

(You might want to visit the Yamaha user site: www.aw16g.com
Try using the search function there since lots of other folks have already written with questions of comparing SIABs.)
 
folks moving from analog to digital would be smart to asume that they'll need some weeks/months of easygoing study and practice
Click to expand...

that's so true! damn, patientence is a bitch! that's life though...:rolleyes:
 
I have a Korg D16, as well as a PC Saw Studio rig. The Korg format is very user friendly, and the Touch View screen is awesome.

Having said that ... a pc system is much more powerful and expandable. I have an Echo Mia Souncard (2 ins/outs - actually 4 with spdif) running Saw Studio, http://www.sawstudio.com and it works very well. Also, the convertors on the Mia are definitely cleaner than any all in one workstation, including Korg, Yamaha. etc.

On the other hand, a pc system is not portable (unless you go with a laptop). If you need portability, I'd say go with a Korg or Yamaha. (I'd pick the d1600 for ease of use). However, If you want something you can grow with and expand later ... I would definitly recommend going PC. My .000001 of a cent.
 
PC vs Outboard. Hmmmmmmmmmmmmmm!

Both have thier +'s & -'s but for me, I luvvvv the feel of actual knobs, switches, pots, faders & leds!!! Furthermore, there's a small but reasonable amount of concern on the reliability and stability of a pc that's been loaded down with not only recording software, but the numerous plug-ins added on. The chances for system failure/shutdown/crashes causing perm loss of recorded material are greater on a pc than an outboard recorder.In addition, rec'ding software presently in use now is practically always rendered obsolete within 6 months due to the seemingly constant upgrading (along with the price increase) of related software programs. Though the same can be said for outboard gear, adding on additional processors, efx units etc. will never contribute or cause a system failure or loss of music data. Also, when one purchases an outboard unit and is not satisfied with it's performance, it can be returned for exchange,store credit or refund however, the same does not apply with the purchase of rec'ding software as most music retailers prohibit their return unless a severe problem or defect is profoundly apparent!
PC-based rec'ding DOES have its advantages; ease & simplicity
being it's main selling point while outboard recorders provide stability (& in most cases, portability!) but the final choice is truly up to that individual's personal preference.
Myself? I work with freakin' compooters all day and when I come home from work, armed with a 6-pack of Corona's ready to go down to my basement stoo-dee-o to slap up some of my crappy-@ss jammiez, the last thing I want to rec'd on is a pc! Though I use it for final editing purposes, gimme my A-HD24 and/or my beloved ADATS and I'm straight up good-2-go!

Peace
Q.rM
 
For many, a hybrid approach works well. A good 16 or 24 track digital recorder for recording. Then use the PC for mixdown and mastering. Very flexible and produces quality results.

This also works well if you want to record someone at some other location. PC based systems are not very mobile, where the standalone recorder moves easily.

Ed
 
In 2000 I went with a PC and never looked back. One reason was upgradability: I don't think I'm the only one whose past is littered with obsolete formats (remember 8-track 1/4" reel to reel?). When I surveyed the DAW situation I saw lots of neat stuff that could not be upgraded. Anybody here still use an 8-track minidisc? Even though I was (and remain) computer illiterate, over 4 years I have constantly updated the computer, CD burners, hard drives, monitors and you-name-it and now only the case is left from my original PC.

Looking at DAWs, I know I'd miss the large monitor (although I guess several now have VSA cards), the combination keyboard-mouse-controller that lets me speed through track setups, and the flexibility of adding plug-ins when I run out of cool tricks.

On the other side, is STABILITY! You don't miss your water till your well has run dry. I have had some amazingly opaque problems with my PC where it was laid up for days at a time.

Overall, this old Luddite has come a long way, and a DAW is still more expensive IMHO than a PC.
 
Any tried this?

Hello, all, newbie here.

Has anyone used the Zoom MRS1608, or know anything about it? Also, anyone on here using looping devices such as the Boomerang, or the Jamman, used by Joseph Arthur?

cheers!
 
Besides portability, maybe the biggest argument for a SIAB is the reliability. I've been using a Yamaha aw16g for nearly 3 years, daily use, with only a minor glitch while editing on 2 occasions (both my fault). The updated Yamaha aw16 now records in 24 bit. Whether new or old version, it's one heckuva SIAB for anyone leaning that way, and the friendly user forum is a huge bonus...

http://forum.dijonstock.com/

J.
 
I've been on PC and I love it! Woooooooooooooooooooohooooooooo!

Never had a stability issue or anything like that.
 
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