Is my "junk" adequte?

  • Thread starter Thread starter npearce
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npearce

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First: I'm new to the computer recording world.

Second: I would like to record mostly audio. I will be recording my guitars and vocals myself. I will use software for drums and bass. I might want to record other instruments, but until I learn more about the software, it isn't essential.

Here is my set up:
1) P4, 40gig HD, 256 RAM, CD Burner, Windows XP
2) Will be buying M-Audio Audiophile 2496 soundcard soon.

Here's my software:

1) Cool Edit Pro 2.0 (I have figured this one out pretty well)
2) Acid Pro 4.0 (I have not messed with this much becase CE Pro 2.0 is so easy)
3) Sonar 2.0 XL (I am having trouble with this at the moment. Soundcard problems, I think.)

Will my setup and software be adequate for what I want to do? I am thinking about buying Fuity Loops to use for a loop generator for drums and bass.

How important is a MIDI controller (keyboard)? Would it be worth the money for me to get one, or can it wait?

Sorry if this should be in the "Newbies" forum.
 
What you listed should get the job done pretty well. I've been doing audio for a while on my limping PII-400, 96M RAM, and single 13G drive. The software you listed is certainly adequate to meet your stated needs.

Fruity Loops is definitely handy. I'd give it a shot too and see what you think. As for the MIDI controller, that really depends on how pressing your needs for a MIDI controller are... seems stupid to say that, but it's the only answer I can give. If you're being held back by not having it, then you need it.

Mics, preamps, monitoring setup, and your guitars and amp are also big factors, of course, but it sounds like you have a decent starting point for sure.
 
Shouldn't be a problem, especially since it sounds like you won't be multitracking. Your equipment itself is adequate. Sorry I'm not a MIDI guy, can't help there. Do some research about your needs to get your vocals and guitars into the computer properly. Like pg said, you'll need preamps, mics, monitors, etc. :cool:
 
Barometer said:
Shouldn't be a problem, especially since it sounds like you won't be multitracking. Your equipment itself is adequate. Sorry I'm not a MIDI guy, can't help there. Do some research about your needs to get your vocals and guitars into the computer properly. Like pg said, you'll need preamps, mics, monitors, etc. :cool:

I forgot to mention my guitar, mic, etc. setup.

I have a sure SM-57 mic to use for vocals. I am going to run my guitar and my mic through my Zoom PS04. Don't laugh. After a couple test sessions, I realized that it is adequate until I feel like I can afford something better. Oh . . . and I'll be using my Senheiser headphones until I can buy some good monitors. Hopefully that will work out.

Anyway, is a MIDI keyboard a beg advantage when using Fruity Loops (or something similar). Like I said, I'm mostly concerned with making good drum loops and bass guitar loops.
 
Sounds fine to me, although I have yet to get my Audiophile to run under XP with WDM drivers. It works fine using the MME.
 
RWhite said:
Sounds fine to me, although I have yet to get my Audiophile to run under XP with WDM drivers. It works fine using the MME.

I don't know what you mean by WDM and MME. I don't have the soundcard yet, and I've never installed one before.
 
Sounds to me like you have a good setup to start with. I'm doing multitracking with a PIII 700, 256M RAM, 40G drive and Aardvark Q10 with Cakewalk PA9.

One thing you'll find is everyone here is more than willing to help you out. Treat them with respect and always do a search when you have a specific question. The answer is probably already available. Welcome home. OK, new guy buys the first round :D .

DD
 
I've got a Fatar weighted keyboard midi controller and it rocks. now you don't need to go that far, but i think having a good little midi controll (with USB capability) is a great thing to have.
 
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