Just Getting Started, Need Some Help

[MisterPopo31]

Hello,

I'm in the process of learning what equipment I do and don't need. I plan on recording onto an external hard drive using Adobe Audition 2. I want to have the capability of recording live performances (drums, 2 guitars, bass, and vocals), using seven inputs for the drum set alone, as well doing some multitracking. I've decided on mics, but I'm still unsure about mixers, audio interfaces, monitors, etc. I'm not exactly sure what else I need. I've read Jeff Strong's book, home recording for dummies already, and my questions still remain unanswered. Can someone clear up for me exactly what I'm going to need to be able to record at least 12 tracks simultaneously, using a DAW.

Also, suggestions on gear are greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!

 

[DAS19]

Well you have a couple of options.

Option one: Find a firewire interface that connects up to 12 mics at the same time.
This could be your easiest and most effective choice.

The thing about this is I haven't seen to many of these offering this many inputs though they are probably out there most people dont need that many drum mic inputs. Some will argue seven mics is to much start off with.

Option two: Get a analog mixer and buy a sound-card interface with twelve connectors.
This is also a good possible way of recording it will probably be cheaper then option one but you wont have as many options for control.

There might be some other options but I think these are most reasonable.

 

[BushmasterM4]

If you are going to be using the mixer for live sound reinforcement and recording, you might look at The Mackie Onyx 1640 mixer with the firewire option. About 1700.00. Very good preamps, 16 channels into a pc and one of the best live mixers around for the money. Comes with a full version of Tracktion 2 Recording software. If you have questions on this mixer, feel free to pm me. I use one all the time.

 

[Elton Bear]

I use a Behringer Eurorack desk and an M-Audio Delta 1010LT, which together cost me around £250, and that gives me 8 audio inputs, although you can connect more than one Delta to get more.

I would really suggest thinking about using less mics for drums if you're recording live, you can run into serious spillage problems in a small room.
What style are you recording?

 

[MisterPopo31]

True, should I start out with 4 mics on the drum kit? (shurebeta 52, sm57, 2 overheads?) I've read that dynamic mics work best for miking the toms, Would overhead condensers be sufficient? I'm recording in a small spare bedroom. I plan on experimenting for the best set ups on different styles of playing. I dont want to limit myself to a specific style or genre. Basically, I want to be able to capture live full band performances as well as do some multitracking.

It seems to me that getting a mixer with some good preamps is a good solution to routing all my mics, what do you guys think? By the way thanks for your suggestions.

Also, I have one other question. Would I run into any problems if I used bother a firewire hard drive and fire wire interface? And if so, what could be some solutions to that. Thanks again, all your advice is greatly appreciated.

 

[liv_rong]

what you could do is use whatever interface you chose for the electric instruments, then use a seperate smaller mixer for the drums. send the stereo of the drums to the interface only, only two tracks. only downside is you have to have drum levels damn near perfect when you track.

just depends on your budget i guess. I record my stuff at home, then track my drums at someone elses home studio that way, and its ok, but limiting once you go to mix. just something to think about.

in reference to firewire harddrive and firewire interface, im pretty sure that they chain together. i couold be wrong though because im a newb like you