digital recorder or computer

  • Thread starter Thread starter rgroh
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rgroh

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Hi,
I'm confused on what to invest in, I'm thinking about getting the tascam 788 for $900 or should I just get another computer and install gina or layla soundcard or similiar?? I have a studio but it's in my basement and the wife and kids use this computer so that's one reason why I'm asking. I would like to stay within the $1000 range.
Thanks,
Russ
Recording on a tascam 488 now and mixing down to this computer with sound forge XP 4.5.
 
How great of quality are u looking for....just demos or pro quality or just playing around.....?
 
Hi,
I'm serious about recording and I would say with the stuff I have now is better than demo quality so I'll say pro recording.
Checkout a couple of songs I have up at this site and let me know what you think.
http://www.mp3.com/12ouncecurl
Thanks!
 
rgroh........ about a year ago I was just about convinced to get a stand-alone deck (Roland, Akai, etc.) but the more I researched the more I became convinced that the computer is the way to go. If you are familiar with computers and serious about recording I think it's the most versatile and expandable. The only advantage I see to the portable decks is just that - portabilty, for recording bands live or at a remote rehearsal space. Just my $.02. Good luck.

I'll try to hear you music when I get home.
 
I listened to "Seems To Me"...

Cool tune... upbeat - reminds me a bit of Hootie and the Blowfish...

BUT (you knew THAT was coming! ;) ), and I'm not trying to be insulting, it IS pretty much demo quality........

The problems - the bass is muddy and indistinct - there is no sense of space around it, it's just there! Same with the cymbals on the drums... You want to get the impression that the instruments are actually playing in a room of some type... The tracks need to breathe!!

Also, everything has a harsh high-end, as if you weren't happy with the brightness of the tracks as they went down, you may have overcompensated with high-shelving EQ... (more high-freq EQ does not equal transparent and airy!)

You used a heavy reverb on the vocal, could be a tad less, but it's suitable to the mix. I like the guitar lead balance - you hear it, but it isn't harsh or strident. Again - some "air" is needed around it.

With better gear, you may find yourself happier with getting the right sound down on a track first and may not have to use EQ to overcome gear limitations... you're on the right track... keep it up!

Bruce
 
Thanks for the replies guys!
I think I'm leaning more towards getting a computer, I just might have to wait to get more cash. Any recommendation for recording direct into a computer with at least 6 tracks at the same time?
Your right about Seems to me, but always trying different things to get a better sound.
Russ
 
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