MAJOR noob questions, prepare yourself....

[Danfanmen]

I would suggest staying away from the computer/interface route...

+1

I've got a Zoom H4n and it does a spectacular job of recording, yielding of very high quality tracks.

++1

Thanks for all the suggestions! I think I've got things figured out though. Here is what I'm thinking:
RODE NT1-A w/ pop filter, shock mount (package)
Tascam US-100
Nady SMPS-1X Phantom Power Supply (b/c the US-100 does not supply phantom power)
Tripod (to makes recording easier)

Any thoughts? Have any of you owned any of these items before and have any advice?

Happy,

I can't agree enough with the H4n suggestion. I admit that you have to get past it's looks but it's an amazing piece of gear with a ton of functionality. A four track digital recorder, it provides two XLR/preamp (w/phantom) inputs and also serves as an A/D/A interface to your DAW if (when) you get one. It's a win-win all around and highly thought of.

Microphones are problematic. I'm purchasing a CAD Trion 8000 (a tube large condensor) for my daughter which is only twenty or so dollars more then the Rode and supposedly... hopefully... superb for female vocals. I'd look for a studio nearby that has a good selection of mics and buy an hour of time to try them. Cheap and a good investment of time.

Don't don't don't skimp on the monitors. I know it's painful... they're so dern expensive!... but you HAVE to be able to hear what you're recording.

Luck.

 

[Armistice]

Tripod? (10 characters)