Home Studio Advice

[waldo5396]

Okay so im a beginner in this sort of stuff. Im stuck as to which hardware I should get and if I should get a preamp or mixer.

Im gonna be recording mostly acoustic guitar and vocals but I dont want to completly rule out bass and electric.

I was looking at the Firepod for my #1 choice to record but i read good reviews on the Emu 1820.

As for mixers and preamps... Im not clear on wether i need them or not and what ones to get.

For monitors I was told to hold off untill i can get a good pair (Mackie HR624s) and get a good set of headphones but if Im just starting out then would I really need to spend that much? I was also recommended Warfedale 8.2's. Im not sure where I should go with this decision.

Also compressors, I was told to get one of these also and im not sure what they are for (beginner once again).

ANY help would be greatly appreciated.

My price range is between $1,000-1,300

 

[Alexbt]

Well, not quite sure it's my best department, but if you get the Firepod, you shouldn't need preamps. I hear that the built-in ones are quite nice!

I don't see a need for any hardware compressors. Your software should do the job just fine.

 

[apl]

I agree with Alexbt. You won't need a mixer, either.

I'd also add that there are other adequate monitors for a lot less than the Mackies (but if you can afford them get them). I picked up a pair of Event PS6 monitors off eBay for less than $300. They're definitely good enough.

 

[the edzell]

I got a firepod last month and I'm really pleased with it. If you don't have software yet it comes with Cubase LE. Worth the bucks IMO.

If your looking at just recording one thing at a time you won't need 8 plug ins. Save your money and get one that that has two inputs and put your money into a preamp. Presonus (who makes the firepod) makes a good one called the Eureka that has a build in compressor and EQ. I've got one of those too. Good sound on the vocals and bass guitar.