Getting started with minimal equipment

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thrash1256

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Hey guys.
I'm interested in building my home studio but I'm really not sure where to start. I already have some gear that can contribute to the process.

Equipment:
Shure Sm57
Shure Sm58
Samson PA324 6-channel Powered Mixer
Line 6 UX2 Audio Interface
2009 Macbook Pro 13"
Tech 21 Sansamp Bass DI
and a few guitar/bass amps and Modeling pedals

I know I need monitors, more mics, and other things.

I've recorded some acoustic songs with the UX2 and I'm pretty satisfied with the quality, but when it comes to electric, bass, and drums, it's just not good. I use Garageband and Reaper for recording.

But what do I need to really get the clean, professional sound? I know it's not easy (or cheap), but I really just want to build my dream home studio.

Any tips would be greatly appreciated to help get me started, and some links to some gear would be appreciated as well.

Thanks a lot.
 
Hey Thrash,

Looks like you've already got some good equipment. I've used those Shures for a long time and I love them!

As far as monitors, I'll give you a couple to check out that I've personally used. Like most things in the recording world, personal taste is a huge factor so I recommend finding someone who is using the speakers (or a retail shop) and listen before you throw down any serious coin.

Yamaha HS80M Active Studio Monitor-I use these now and am happy with the results.
Description & Reviews:http://www.amazon.com/Yamaha-HS80M-8-Monitor-Speaker/dp/B000QPHCB4

KRK RP8/RP8G2 Rokit Powered-I have a few friends that use these and I think they are great for the money.
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QMhUJnCfO-w
Description & Reviews: http://www.zzounds.com/a--2676837/item--KRKRP8

You can also check out my site, which covers the home recording basics and more.

Good luck,
Mark
 
I'm in a similar situation as you. I am just starting out with minimal equipment but so far my results have been pretty good.

I'm also using a Line6 UX2 and occasionally I'll break out the GuitarPort and I've never had a problem with either. I mostly play death metal and I can get some really good sounds out of the UX2 using GearBox (POD Farm is shit). It's a matter of teaking the sound until you find something you like and sounds good to you.

Software: I've used ALOT of software: ProTools, Cakewalk, Reason, Abelton... But I personally prefer Sony Acid 7. I think it's the most user friendly and I've never found anything that any of the other DAW programs can do that Acid can't. I also use Toontrack EZDrummer with the Drumkit from Hell add on... It's a great tool as it comes packaed with a lot of different beats that can be edited and spliced together to create unique beats and my MIDI controller interfaces with it flawlessly.

MIDI: I use the M-Aaudio Oxygen61. It's not a "real" MIDI controller as some have argued as it interfaces with the computer via USB instead of an actual MIDI connection but the prinicple and functionality is there. It's a great controller and it was super cheap ($160 I think). It interfaces with your recording program and you can use the sliders and knobs to control track levels and panning, etc...

Mics: For the longest time I used a Radio Shack stage mic for vocals... laugh now but as I said, I play death metal... clear vocals is not a requirement for a good recording and I would get some great results from that mic. I recently acquired the standard SM58 which was much better for live applications but I still prefer my Radio Shack mic for recording. I also bought the MXL 990/991 package. These are both great mics. The 990 is awesome for vocals (even death metal) and the two of them together give really good results in recording acoustic guitar.

Monitors: I use the Samson 3a and 4a monitors with a 10" Sony Subwoofer. The entire setup cost me $350 and I'm looking at adding another sub (for stereo low ends) and a set of the 5as. Like Marks Sloan said, it really comes down to personal taste but it also comes down to your budget. I like the Samsons because they are a good quality speaker without me shelling out a shit ton of cash.

Hopefully this helps some.
 
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