I'm thinking of getting a Fostex MR8 HD, but don't know how I'll get drum tracks. Could I somehow do drum sampling with software like Ableton Live and my Axiom 61 and get the track onto the recorder, then record electric guitar over that? Or can I connect a drum machine like an Alexis SR into the actual recorder, and do it that way too?
You can connect a drum machine to most recorders. I'd forget the Alesis though--Look at and listen to, if possible, the Boss 880. The Boss 880 has a gaggle of patches, you can write your own drum beats if you want to, and all of the patches come with a bass line that you can use or shut off.
You can also change the key of the bass line if need be.
Many nice Funk beats to toy with/jam.
I run my 880 through an ART mic pre to give it a tad more kick AND it KICKS fine.
You can use a regular 1/4 phone plug out from the Boss 880. [I suggest you look into the Boss 880 as it will give you enough presets to keep you busy for a long time.] And, the manual for the 880 is pretty clear.
I have a two channel ART MPA and it will take XLR or 1/4 inch. Using the XLR, if possible, is usually preferred--it's up to you.
Again, the 880 Boss has very good patches; I had used an SR-16 prior and the Boss blows it away as far as sound quality and features. You can also plug in a guitar or electric bass direct to the 880 and run it to your recorder. Amazing little box and its price has remained constant for a couple of years. This kind of tells you that it is a popular drum machine.
Ciao, PS: The out on the Boss is 1/4 inch phone plug; however, you can use a TRS plug which has the XLR input on the other end of the phone plug.
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