O
On_A_Friday
New member
This is what I want to do!:
1. I want to record onto tape; multiple tracks (four is cool, but ideally eight?)
2. I want to import the tracks separately, but also simultaneously, into my computer.
3. I want to edit the individual tracks down into short samples that I can then use to compose a song.
What I'm working with now:
1. A basic Fostex 4-Track cassette recorder with one stereo output.
2. Basic, bottom-of-the-line mics.
3. Audacity.
My problem so far is that I am unable to import individual tracks simultaneously into Audacity using my basic M-Audio preamp (the $100 one they sold at the Apple store seven years ago) and when I attempted to import them one at a time, the inherent stretching of the cassette tape resulted in tracks that didn't exactly match up tonally or rhythmically. So I'm looking for recommendations on:
1. A tape recorder that has multiple outputs for multiple tracks, or one with which stretching/variable tape speed is not an issue (possible?) My budget for that is $200-$300. I was recommended a Tascam 246 but it looks too expensive for me. I love the lo-fi sound of my Fostex cassette recorder though - don't want to go too hi-fi!
2. Software that will allow me to easily import recordings that I can whittle down into blocks and then stack/layer/repeat/loop throughout a song. Essentially I want to pull a Panda Bear and build songs out of loops, but only loops that I have recorded on analog equipment. I know this is nothing new, so what software do people prefer to use to for this kind of songwriting?
3. A one-size-fits-all microphone that I can use for recording guitar amps, live drums and vocals. I was recommended the Shure SM-57 as an industry-standard, "workhorse" mic. Yes? My budget for a mic is around $100. Happy to buy used gear though.
So that's where I'm at. If you could spout off some quick recommendations or advice I would certainly appreciate it. And if this post would be better suited for a different board, please let me know.
Thanks,
E
1. I want to record onto tape; multiple tracks (four is cool, but ideally eight?)
2. I want to import the tracks separately, but also simultaneously, into my computer.
3. I want to edit the individual tracks down into short samples that I can then use to compose a song.
What I'm working with now:
1. A basic Fostex 4-Track cassette recorder with one stereo output.
2. Basic, bottom-of-the-line mics.
3. Audacity.
My problem so far is that I am unable to import individual tracks simultaneously into Audacity using my basic M-Audio preamp (the $100 one they sold at the Apple store seven years ago) and when I attempted to import them one at a time, the inherent stretching of the cassette tape resulted in tracks that didn't exactly match up tonally or rhythmically. So I'm looking for recommendations on:
1. A tape recorder that has multiple outputs for multiple tracks, or one with which stretching/variable tape speed is not an issue (possible?) My budget for that is $200-$300. I was recommended a Tascam 246 but it looks too expensive for me. I love the lo-fi sound of my Fostex cassette recorder though - don't want to go too hi-fi!
2. Software that will allow me to easily import recordings that I can whittle down into blocks and then stack/layer/repeat/loop throughout a song. Essentially I want to pull a Panda Bear and build songs out of loops, but only loops that I have recorded on analog equipment. I know this is nothing new, so what software do people prefer to use to for this kind of songwriting?
3. A one-size-fits-all microphone that I can use for recording guitar amps, live drums and vocals. I was recommended the Shure SM-57 as an industry-standard, "workhorse" mic. Yes? My budget for a mic is around $100. Happy to buy used gear though.
So that's where I'm at. If you could spout off some quick recommendations or advice I would certainly appreciate it. And if this post would be better suited for a different board, please let me know.
Thanks,
E