Mixer or Audio Interface..?

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JugglingPro

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Hi, i have been wanting to start my own little recording studio as a hobby in my free time.

So far, I have chosen my recording software on my laptop and my mics. I am using mixcraft 5, and will be recording guitar, acoustic guitar, vocals, piano, and drums. For the vocals and guitar, etc..., I will only be recording one track at a time, but with drums i will have around 4 mics around my drum set and I want to record 4 different tracks so i can edit it all in mixcraft.

I have been reading about interfaces and mixers, and am looking at the Behringer x2222usb mixer. Today, I read that to be able to record, you need a mixer connected to an audio interface/sound card, and then to your computer? I also heard that if you only use a mixer directly, you can only record 1 track for multiple mics, while if you use an audio interface you can record 1 track for each mic.

I just want some clarification as to what I should buy, a mixer, audio interface, or both? And could you please give me some explanation as to why. Remember, I want to be able to record a track for each mic when drumming. All help is appreciated!!

Thanks!
Ricky
 
I'm gonna see if someone else recommends an interface before I do this time. :D
 
What would the behringer mixer be for exactly then? I have read many little site and they say that it is used for setting eq and stuff before actually mixing it afterwards, but you can only record it as one track.
 
arcadeko, you also said in that thread you linked here:
"A simple interface may only have one or two inputs (or no inputs and just built in mics) while others may be a full multi-track mixing console."
So an interface could also include a mixer?
 
Yeah, most mixers are going to only allow 2 tracks to be recorded to your computer. Alesis Multimix8 USB2.0 is an exception. There is no real need to eq first unless you only want to record to a stereo track. Better idea to record individual tracks, then eq them after. Look at the Tascam US 1800.
 
So all audio interfaces allow you to record like 4 mics for example in 4 different tracks? And then you just edit it in your computer?
 
Well, depending on the interfaces inputs, yes. A 4 'in' interface will record to 4 separate tracks. When an interface lists it's outs, that refers to line outs from the interface. Not the amount of tracks it can record. Inputs are directly related to individual track recording ability.
 
The Tascam I linked, is a 16X4. 16 inputs, 4 outputs. It will record 16 simultaneous, individual tracks at once to the computer. The outputs are used for monitors/outboard gear.
 
Yes, ive looked at the Tascam and it looked very nice for my price range. It only has 8 mic inputs right? And the other 8 are for patch cords?
 
Yes in theory. You can run two dynamic mic's on channels 9/10 with a XLR to 1/4" cables. I use 3 ART stereo preamps for scratch tracks or whatever on the other 6 inputs.

I typically use those (9/10) for the unnecessary's like HH and Ride
 
Oh okay, thank you for clarifying. :)

What do you mean by stereo preamps? I read that another guy bought a preamp along with his interface. What is that for?
 
Two channel preamp would be more accurate actually. Well, every mic needs a preamp to increase it's output to line level so that it can be recorded. Basic preamps are hopefully at least clean. More mics can be used for line inputs of an interface if a preamp is added. That being said, I have my sights on a Vintech X73 for $1800. That is in a class that truly blows away any built in interface preamp. Preamps will vary in how they affect the signal coming from the mic, from bad things to wonderfully lush sounds. You pretty much get what you pay for.
 
So if I was only using 8 mics max to record drums would I still need an extra two channel preamp?

And also, if I was recording electric guitar, would I plug in my guitar to my amplifier and then to my interface, or would I go directly into the interface from my guitar?
 
With the Tascam? No, you would still have two more preamps left.

You can do either. Typically, a mic'd amp will sound better than an amp emulator. But that depends on your amp. I always record a direct signal along with the mic'd one just in case. Hardly use sims tho. They are however awesome for clean tones and bass guitar. Just gotta find the right ones.
 
Okay, so basically for all my mics I can just use the 10 preamps with the Tascam, and for my guitar I can ether go through my amp or just use a 1/4" cable into my interface?
 
Yep. For going in 'direct' with your guitar, you would need to use one of the two High Z inputs with the preamps. A guitar output is not line level either. Unless your amp has a 'line out'.

That is why I have extra preamps. I typically use 10-12 mics on the kit alone, then need other mics/direct signals for vocals, guitars, bass. Channels get eaten up real quick in live recording situations.
 
Yep, that's what 9 and 10 are. Selectable. So, do you really juggle professionally? If so, you would be the first I have met. Very nice. :D
 
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