io2 express - Can't record from 2nd input

[sixer2007]

Hey guys,

So I'm having trouble getting any kind of input into my DAW (cubase 5) from my io2 express's second input for both the XLR and guitar jacks. The 1st channel inputs work fine, and i know that the 2nd input works as far as the device is concerned because i can hear playback to my speakers, but cubase doesn't recognize the signal.

I have set up 2 sets of input buses to see if that was the issue, but to no avail. I have been using only the 1st input for some time now and have had no issues with it at all.

Any ideas what i might be doing wrong? Quite frustrating so if you have anything i might try, i'd be super grateful!

 

[sixer2007]

Solution found

I've noticed a bunch of people have viewed this thread since yesterday so i assume this is a common issue....

After reading about every post i could find on here about the io2 express, I have found that this device (maybe others too, but i don't know for sure) is set up as a stereo device. This means that if you are not using a stereo track within your DAW (rather than a mono track) you wont see it working from input 2 on your io2 express. But, if you do set up a stereo track to record to, and want to use the 2nd input, you will only get a right channel.

So, this leads me to another question. How does one record a guitar in stereo rather than mono? I mean, how do i run 2 cables from my guitar into my device at the same time? Through a mixer or something? Or is this usually done by recording my amp with 2 mics rather than one?

And also, if i were going to record something like drums with 2 mics (using both inputs) would it have to go to just one stereo track? or is it possible to get them to 2 mono tracks?

I'm still learning a lot about this kinda stuff, so excuse my ignorance on the subject! Thanks in advance.

 

[gpenn76]

Guitars, guitar amps, and guitar cords are all mono, so most people record guitars in mono.

If you want to record your guitar in stereo, there are a few options I know of.

1. Mic the amp. Plug in a mic to each input and set them to both record the amp.
Pros: Gets a stereo mix in one take, and depending on the positions of the mics, you can get some interesting "room" effects.
Cons: The amp noise can make the recordings muddy, and you won't be able to control the noise though the interface.

2. Double track the guitar. Play it once in mono, and then play the same thing again over top in mono, then pan left / right.
Pros: You can keep the mix clean from amp noise, and the slight differences between L and R can warm up the mix.
Cons: Some people have trouble playing the same thing on top of itself exactly the same, and it can be especially difficult with guitar.

Well, that's my advice.