Help: don't kNow where to begin.

[jlazar]

I'm feeling desparate and would appReciate and advice.
This is what I want to be able to do:

Ceate layered recordings to use as background music while I play guitar live.

One guy I know who is doing such a thing is using a digital multi-track recording device. I'm wondering if I can do the same thing with a computer; record my work to CD, and play the CD while I play.

I'm basically looking to create what my friend calls an e-band to provide some back-up when I play live.

WHat i have: guitar, keyboard, computer (and a burning desire to roCk). (And actually, I don't have the keyboard yet, but will be given one for the holidays: I have a $300 price limit. Any suggestions?)

THe New York Times had a brief article: mentioned a few programs (powertrack pro audio), and websites.

I've downloaded one free shareware program and couldn't make heads or tails.

ANy advice would be crazily welcomed.

appreciatively,
jeffrey

 

[lazyboy]

You might start by getting a mic such as a shure sm 57, a mic preamp like the Art MP (~$100) and n-track studio software, a few cables and connectors. Total cost should be less than $300.

Here's the link to n-track
http://www.fasoft.com

You simply connect the mic to mic preamp and the mic preamp to your soundcard line input and that'll get your guitars on the computer. You can also do your keys this way, but the tech savvy types around here will probably tell you that MIDI is the way to go there. You're on the right track and you've come to the right place. Hope this information can at least lead you toward a couple things. We'll be around to answer any more of your questions.

Happy Holidays!

 

[bhlewis]

THERE ARE PLENTY OF PROGRAMS THAT WILL DO WHAT YOU NEED. CAKEWALK, CUBASE,ACID,N-TRACK,ETC.... DO A SEARCH ON THIS SITE. ALSO WHAT KIND OF PUTER? DO YOU HAVE WHAT KIND OF SOUNDCARD?

 

[Sabith]

after U get the Shure 57, Art Tube MP and any cables needed for hookin up, I think N-Track will be the only audio program U will be able to afford.

So unfortunatly Cubase, Cakewalk ect.... will be outta your price range =(

But N-Track is a great program, and just cause it doesn't cost a lot of $$$ doesn't mean itz bad..... itz actually quite good.

Good Luck,

Sabith