I need a multitrack for live recording

  • Thread starter Thread starter Niles
  • Start date Start date
N

Niles

New member
I'm looking to buy a 4 track (or more) for live recording. I want something that I can connect to a Mackie 1604 VLZ.
Most of the digital recorders I see under $500 will only record 2 tracks simultaneously. Any suggestions?
 
What, exactly do you want to record?
2 tracks live so you can overdub on top later?
4 discrete tracks so you can mix more effectively?
Are you taking channels right from the Mackie into 4 track?
Are you mixing into the 4 busses that will get dumped into respective tracks?
What is your end goal?
 
I want to record my 4 piece band from the mixer in a live situation.
I do not plan to overdub. thanks, Niles
 
A nice 8-track reel to reel, maybe? If you already have a mackie that would be all you need, and they can be found for well under $500. Of course, tape aint cheap so if you are gonna do a LOT of recording it may not be agood alternative. And they can be a pain to lug around, of course, a HD porta is gonna be easier to move.

Or one of those 8-track cassettes...

Or something like this:
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2570018238&category=41478

It's all a matter of finding a match for a need and a budget. :)
 
If you want to mess around with the songs later some kind of 8 track device would probably be your best bet. For live recording you could probably submix the drums to one or two tracks leaving you with six or seven for everything else. The Tascam Syncaset 238 is capable of surprisingly good recordings; considering what it is. Plus the tapes'll be a lot cheaper than open reel or most digital media.
 
As far as routing the signals goes something like:

Lead Vocal: Direct to Track 1
Lead Guitar: Direct to Track 2
Rhythm Guitar (if you use one): Direct to Track 3
Bass Guitar: Direct to Track 4
Snare Drum: Track 8 or Tracks 7 and 8 via Buss
Kick Drum: Track 8 or Tracks 7 and 8 via Buss
Overheads: Track 8 or Tracks 7 and 8 via Buss
Toms: Track 8 or Tracks 7 and 8 via Buss
Room Mics (for those all important appreciative audience sounds): Direct to Tracks 5 and 6.

Could work.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top