Lexicon Lambda: # of Simultaneous Tracks?

[arCHI]

Hi there... another total n00b question for you guys. I haven't started recording yet, but am trying to plan out how I will approach some issues. In particular I am considering how I will record drums.

I have a Lexicon Lambda interface and I would like to record drums with a 4-mic method. The question is: the interface says it can record two tracks at once, does this mean 2 stereo tracks, or two tracks/inputs period? If I can record 2 stereo tracks then I shouldn't have any trouble with the drum setup I want.

Follow up question: is the 2-track limitation a function of the interface or cubase? Would it be possible to use another interface in addition to the Lexicon to simultaneously record all 4 tracks?

 

[nate_dennis]

(here is my compulsory preface: i'm not a pro and don't pretend to be. I'll tell you what I know and think, but I could always be wrong.)

If the manual says it can record two simultanious tracks then you get two tracks, or one stereo track. If I recall correctly, the lambda can take four ins, but only records to two out, so you could record your drums this way, but the mix you get at the lambda is what you get. (A lot of people hate this, but I view it as a plus. You are forced to work to get the sound you want and get it right at the source. You are forced to make decisions. So I'm not pushing you away from this.)

If you need more inputs you can get an interface with more. You can get a stand-alone unit that will have between 8 and 16.

I'm a big fan of going back to basics for beginners. I would push you (if you cared what I thought) to back to old cassette based portastudios to begin with. Learn how to fight your gear to get good sound. Then, if you want, move "up" to a digital rig.

Another cross between these ideas is to get a USB or Firewire mixer. Some of the nicer ones can record 8 or more simultanious tracks. Plus you have some decent pres, and a hands on approach.

Just some thoughts. Do with them what you will.

 

[arCHI]

Thanks for the input. I will certainly look into some of the options you mentioned.

The main reason I wanted to go digital is because for the most part it will just be me recording, and I was concerned about overdubs. Plus I was initially using this unit to record myself through a line6 POD in my bedroom of my apartment, so amps were basically out of the question...

now that I am looking to expand my enterprise I was hoping I wouldn't have to spend too much money on additional equipment (mics being the exception, because I can always use mics if I decide to upgrade again!).

 

[ido1957]

The Lexicon interface is two track maximum. It is a limitation of the unit itself not Cubase (Cubase LE limits to 48 and the full version is "unlimited"). Get a different interface for > 2 simultaneous inputs.

 

[arCHI]

The Lexicon interface is two track maximum. It is a limitation of the unit itself not Cubase (Cubase LE limits to 48 and the full version is "unlimited"). Get a different interface for > 2 simultaneous inputs.

could i use the lexicon and the pod (w/capability for 2 tracks) at the same time to achieve 4 tracks into cubase?

 

[TimOBrien]

ASIO (the low latency drivers you WANT to use) = 1 device driver at one time.

Plus even if you get 2 devices working together, they'll each have separate crystal clocks that beat at different rates and will drift over time.

Save your pennies and get an interface with more i/o....

 

[saustindavis]

You could find a mixer with enough inputs to run the setup you want, then send the outs to the Lambda and into Cubase as left and right. You will ahve to set your levels on the mixer, which means you won't be able to change them once you hit record, but if you spend enough time with it it should work fine.

I have a Lambda, but have never needed to record more than two tracks at a time. I think it is a great intro device but hope to upgrade sometime in the next year or so when I start recording drums more frequently.