mr8 purchasing decisions

[altcountry]

After lurking around here for a while, I've decided to order the mr8. While ordering I would like to go ahead and get some other goodies while I've got some extra $$. Hoping maybe some of ya'll can give me some direction. I'm looking for a basic 'start-up' thing.

Here's what I want to do-
record original tunes, mostly acoustic, some electric guitar, electric bass vocals and a little midi to make up for instruments I don't want to buy.

Here's what I already have-
Acoustic guitar w/ pickup, electric guitar, midi keys, electric bass, congas, bongos, G4 w/os X dual gig HD, 1024 ram

Here's what I'm wondering-
Gonna need a mic, but do I need a preamp?
How about monitors/headphones?
Software? (I'll probably be transferring files to computer and save flash card upgrade for later) Are these items enough to get started? What's the best bargain without sacrificing much quality? Any help highly appreciated and thanks in advance.

 

[mrx]

I've been getting nice results with a cheapo PA mic that does not require a pre, although others here swear by condenser mic's and one of those inexpensive pre-amps (or a mixer).

Monitors are another story - I've been using headphones and computer speakers to mix, and the results suffer (nothing sounds right when played in the car, etc.) You'll probably get as many opinions as there are users, but Event makes powered monitor speakers that range from $299 on up (per pair) that get great reviews.

Welcome aboard!

 

[groucho]

I would say you're definitely going to need a preamp. The Mr8's preamps are very bad - not at all unusual in recorders at this level.

This isn't really a problem though as long as you have a pre with enough power to enable you to avoid using any of the mr8's "trim" power. Leave those trim knobs all the way down, use the gain on the preamp and your sound will be fine. Eliminate the preamp and your sound quality will take a big hit.

M-audio makes a pretty good little basic starter pre for around $70.

Chris