getting started w/bedroom recording

[VeganZombie]

i want to be able to do demos with guitar, vocals, bass, and drums (drum samples). so that i can go into a studio and not waste any time figuring out overdubs, that parts don't match up.....

what i'm looking for:

-preferably an amp modeler of some sort (line 6 pod 2.0 or toneport UX2), since i can't crank up my half stack in my apartment (even with an attenuator i can't record at 4am).

-i'd like to have atleast 8 tracks available.

-fairly easy to use software.

-PC compatible.

-i have a budget of around $600 (i already have 3 good mics, mic cables, guitars, mic stands, pedals...) so what i need is: recording software (compatible with WIN XP), a port to plug into, and decent 'studio speakers'.

what i've looked into:

line 6 UX2 (it has the ports, modelers, headphone inputs, but the software it comes with (ableton live lite) only lets you record 4 tracks, and i'd have to get drum software). but the price is great: $200.

inspire 1394 firewire audio interface (it's also $200, comes with software (cubase LE, ACID XMC, Discrete Drums LE), but doesn't have the modelers/mic preamps, but i could get a pod for that)

what would you recommend, and please feel free to let me know about products i didnt mention? and let me know if i left out anything that i'll need.

thanks

 

[Red Dog Studios]

Look into some good software from Cakewalk like Guitar tracks, i've used 3 versions of Guitar tracks and i've loved everyone of them. They all have the effects, tracks and tools you need. and with the money you have left over, get you a good interface or sound card so you can plug your mixer up to your computer or just one mic at a time. how ever you like to do it

 

[flat1ine]

i'm also looking at the inspire, and it's seeming like a great option ... if you're going for a totally PC based system, you might want to think about Guitar Rig ... you can cut out your Line 6 or Pod. it's simply an amazing piece of software, and it's amazingly easy to make any tone you want, and, im my opinion, they sound fantastic.

$600 is a little thin for both software, and interface and monitors ... not that i have any more, granted ... best of luck.