do I still need my mixer?

  • Thread starter Thread starter malgovert
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malgovert

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Hi there

I did some recording a few years ago but have been out of the loop for a while, and desperately need to upgrade. However, things have changed. So I need to ask - if I get an audio interface (looking at Presonus Firestudio Mobile) do I still need my mixer, and should I take the soundcard out of the computer? Last time I recorded there were no AI's, and I am not sure I fully understand them, though have done a fair bit of reading. Thanks.

M.
 
It all depends on if you are satisfied with what you can get "in the box", with just the computer. The main reason I made a passive mixer was because I have some outboard gear (Summit tube stuff) that I doubt you can equal in plug-ins, but who knows. If you can get your final result with the eq, reverb, compression etc that's in your computer then you don't need anything outboard.

So I guess I'd say it would depend on if the outboard stuff you have is better than the plug-ins. The vast majority of pro stuff (all?) in 2010 is made with a hybrid system of ITB (out of the box: mixer + outboard gear + computer)and OTB (computer only) gear.

But the stuff that comes with programs - the eq, compression etc is often better than most outboard stuff amateur studios have.

I left my stock soundcard in my computer. I saw no reason to take it out, the only reason I could think of would be that it probably wastes electricity. I like to make my computer able to function normally in stock form as it introduces less variables if the thing screws up. Who knows what the computer does when it's starting up, maybe it handshakes with soundcard ... I'd just leave the soundcard in to be safe.
 
When I started digital recording, I used a mixer because my interface (ISIS sound card) only had line inputs.

After I got a Firepod, I realised (eventually) that life was a lot less complicated if I went straight into it, and didn't use the mixer. So I am now mixerless, except when I need more inputs than the firepod has.

As for internal soundcard? I leave it in. I set up the firepod has the system default audio device, and everything works fine.
 
You may need your mixer for recording vocals but just for listening with effects.
In other words, run a line out from the audio interface to your mixer so that you can hear yourself sing with some added "Warmth" but without actually recording the effects.
I use a Behringer 1204 FX for that. Other than that, it has no place in my studio.
 
One use for a mixer and audio interface (if you have a lot of instruments) is to connect the main outs from the mixer to the line ins on the Studio Mobile. Conntect your instruments to the mixer. Mute the inputs that your not recording. That keeps you from having to connect/disconnect cable, set gains, etc every time you want to record.

Other than that...I see no need for a mixer...especially if your mixer is not very good.
 
OK thanks a lot - that's really a great help. I did all my recording previously on Cakewlk Pro Audio 8, but I need to upgradde the computer and the sequencer now. I am reading a lot about DAWs - is this the same as what I call a sequencer - ie the software for recording and editing music? Also does anyone know if the lastest Sonar products would be compatible with CWPA 8 - ie would I still be able to play my old stuff? Thanks.

M.
 
Follow this link to get up-to-date on recording and what's available to you.
http://www.tweakheadz.com/guide.htm
A DAW is what people generally call the Studio, Software Programs so "Yes".
I'm sure someone can fill you in on the compatibility question.
 
DAW=Digital Audio Workstation

Probably most commonly used for software like Cubase, Sonar, ProTools, Nuendo, Logic, etc...
 
But I can just install the software (Sonar) on the computer, right, and use that to record and edit? I don't need a DAW as well? Sorry if this sounds dumb - I am really like a newbie all over again.:confused: I will read tweakheadz too, already been reading a bit. Thanks.

M.
 
OK thanks a lot! While I'm here, I have a couple more questions which I guess I could have put on different forums, but thought I might as well continue here. First, is it best to invest in Windows 7 as OS? I'm looking at Sonar 8.5 Studio or Producer as DAW, which I think are compatible.

But what about the Presonus FireStudio Mobile, does anyone know if that is Windows 7 compatible? Also the DB9 cable that's included for this interface's MIDI input, does the other end take the midi in/out lead from the device or does it go straight to teh device itself? If anyone knows the answers I'd be really grateful as I am basically starting from scratch again here - and it's not easy - my current computer is Pentium III/Windows 98 - and I have to get my new stuff custom built /imported from overseas! Thanks!

M.
 
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Internal VS External Mixer and mobile sound cards

I used to have an Alesis mixer. Lately I've switched entirely over to Logic Audio's internal mixer. Doing this, I'm getting no sound loss with the routing of the cables and the mixer (inputs could be dirty for instance). When it is internal, you get 24 bit resolution all the way. You would need a good piece of software that has a great mixer like Logic Audio 9, Cubase VST, or Pro-Tools. As for an external mobile sound card, I would go for the Apogee Duet or maybe Apogee One. I had the Presonus Firebox and both the Apogee Duet and One and sold back the Firebox and One because I was not too happy with the internal DAC (Digital Audio Converter). The Firebox might have many inputs and outputs, but at the cost of the DAC. The Apogee One has a very good DAC, but only one input. The DUET has a great DAC, but only 2 inputs. You can read a comparison on the One VS Duet here.
 
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