Dumb question...

[Mitchmusicman]

Guys,
I am thinking of coming of age and going to a computer based system. What do you guys recommend for starters? I have been using A Tascam MKIII and a Boss 532 with a Mackie 1402 VLZ and a few nice toys. I guess I am 10 years behind the times. Where do I start to go computer based? Thanks.
Peace - Mitch

 

[M.Brane]

Do you have any computer experience beyond websurfing?

Which platform?

What do you plan on doing: MIDI stuff, just audio, or both?

What's your budget like?

 

[Stealthtech]

An audio interface (audiophile 2496)(budget minded)
A descent audio program.
Perhaps a mixer.

 

[Mitchmusicman]

budget?

Not sure what my budget will be, that is in part why I am here. What should I plan for budget-wise, to get up and running? As far as expertise, I use a PC everyday at work, Windows XP and Windows 98 at home. I am familiar with the usual stuff: word, excel, power point, clarisworks (on my really old MAC), and the like. I have not used a program like pro-tools etc. I am not sure I have enough room on my PC to load it up with studio stuff. May have to buy a good used one just for the studio.

As far as what I would do with it, everything (I guess). I would midi keyboards, and somehow import the guitar, vocals etc. not sure how that is all accomplished. Sorry, but I really am a newbie at this computer based recording deal...

As for a mixer, I do have the Mackie which is awesome. Thanks guys again for your help!
Peace - Mitch

 

[M.Brane]

Well, without a clear budget in mind it's kinda hard to go into specifics, so here's some general tips:

The best way to go computer-wise is a dedicated machine that's custom built for DAW work. If you build it yourself you can save a lot of $, but then you have to consider the time it takes to research the right hardware, putting it together, and getting it setup.

Since your probably going the Windows route I won't be much help in that dept. since I'm a Mac guy. I'm allergic to Microsoft.

As for the actual recording hardware, you need to decide how many ins & outs you need, and what kind. There's tons of hardware around these days. I think it's best to pick a software you like, then build your hardware to support it.