I've got a computer, I want to record. Now What?

[Neon Fluxion]

The subject basically says it all. I'm interested in getting started in home recording and mixing and know absolutely nothing about it (well I know the sound goes into a microphone). I play guitar and bass and use Mixman Studio. Where should I start, what should I look at getting first and then what next and so on? What program shoudl I get for my computer? What equipment do I need?

 

[drstawl]

It's not my intention to chase you off for asking such a broad question but its obvious that you could get a lot out of taking the Dragon crash course in Homerecording.
When I found it I'd already been recording with my PC for a few years and I still thought it was an instant injection of practical know-how. It's available free at the main page for this site. Have a good read then come back and ask some questions that haven't been answered there. Have Fun!
Hey- You're only 4 hours away from our
most vocal Montana resident: Slackmaster2K.

[This message has been edited by drstawl (edited 05-03-2000).]

 

[Neon Fluxion]

Ok thanks. This is the first time I've been here adn I looked for something like that on the home page but had problems finding it. Thanks. Where at in Montana?

 

[Slackmaster2K]

Holy crap another Montana boy (or girl?)! I never thought I'd see the day.... *snif* *snif*

Too bad Montana is the size of 5 "regular" states

We need the following information man:

1) What kind of computer do you have. Specifically, CPU type/speed, Hard Drive size/speed, memory type/size, and soundcard. If you find yourself saying "I don't know" to any of these questions then FIND OUT! It's really quite important. If you need some help, let me know.

2) What kind of music do you want to record? Are you going to be doing a lot of computerized stuff (e.g. MIDI) or mostly analog (e.g. recording from analog sources). Do you want to program drums or do you have a drummer?

3) What kind of microphones and/or DI boxes do you have now? What kind of preamps?

4) Do you have a mixer? Do you need a mixer?
Do you know?

Greetings from Bozeman,

Slackmaster 2000