Multi-Track Recorder... which to buy?

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JonathanRay

JonathanRay

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I tryed the MBox - laptop couldn't handle it. Tryed the Leixcon Omega - laptop couldn't handle it. So instead of spending money on maxing out my laptop, or purchasing another computer, I'm going to have to go with a multi-track recorder.

My budget for now is around $500, I could probably push $750. (Could be more later, not sure right now.)

I know nothing about these Multi-track recorders, but I know what I would like. I need it to burn to CDs. It would be nice to be able to dump files to my computer. I'm not sure what a good number of tracks would be, maybe a minimum of 10? But I play to record local bands. I'm not sure what I can get for my budget.

I'd really appreciate it if you guys could help me find a good one. Thanks for any help!
 
Well since you want to be recording bands you're not going to want the units that only record up to 2 tracks at a time. I have a Yamaha AW16G which will record 8 and I like it just fine. There's a few others out there. More opinions are sure to follow.
 
I have an AW16G and its great. You can get a used on off ebay for around $600.00 and you'll use and love it for a long time
 
I was looking at the AW16G on MF. For $750, it looks pretty good. Just wondering if anyone has any opinions on that Tascam 2488?
 
Another vote for the 16G, available in your price range with some searching.
An excellent SIAB solution for many folks, as you'll see if you visit the dedicated forum: http://forum.dijonstock.com/

J.
 
Correct me if i am wrong but doesnt the AW16g have 8 mono and 4 stereo tracks? I think thats wht drove me the most nuts about it.

I have been looking for a new multi track, I like the looks of the Korg D1600MKII 8 Ins and 16 mono tracks for $1050 on MF. Plus it has a touch screen.

I love my Zoom Mrs-8 but it wouldnt be a great deal for band recording as its only two ins. it doesnt bug me as I never use more than two mikes on a drum set anyway.

-Blaze
 
I have an Akai DPS16. Those are really cheap now on ebay and they are built like tanks. You would need to get an 8 speed external scsi cd writer to finish it out though. Personally, I don't know how I ever got by without a dedicated hard disk recorder unit. It is SOOOOO handy for doing a variety of stuff even though I do most of my stuff on a mac. The akai unit has midi for syncing like all the other units.
 
I have a Korg D1600 with a cd burner and I love it to death. This unti has a touch screen also....16 tracks at 16 bit, 8 tracks at 24 bit. It also has phantom power switches on the 4 XLR inputs for condenser mics. I got my unit in excellent condition off EBay for $490, $510 shipped. You should go to korg.com and checks the specs. If it fits what you're looking for then there you have it. But also there's another side vote for the yamaha 16g b/c I've worked with that machine and I like that one too. look around for recorders that peak your interest first then go to EBay before anything else. You can get some great deals there.
 
Another vote for the Yammy

My vote is for the Yamaha AW16G.....though I don't have experience with the other referenced units.

My G has run like a top for 1 1/2 years, doesn't freeze, no latency, no skipping. Starts up quick. Intuitive routing. Great support group via www.dijonstock.com

Only two downsides from my perspective:

- Internal preamps are not so hot and you can not bypass them (I'm trying to figure out if the optical In's bypass the Yammy's internal pres's but I can't get it to work...most likely user ignorance).

- The internal effects, more specifically mastering presets are not very good.

Bart
 
The AW16G sure looks nice. I just hope it can handle recording a band with good results. I need the unit to be somewhat portable, so having a burner built-in is essential.

Does anyone have any opinions on the Tascam 2488? I may be able to get one of those. Though the reviews say it has a habbit of locking up...
 
Just cause I have one I'm not going to try to shove one down your throat but I can assure you the AW16G can handle bands quite well and is very portable and rugged. The dijonstock page has a section for members music if you'd like a listen.

One more thing, it looks like Musicians Friend is selling them for $799 right now. :)
 
Does it only have 2 XLR inputs? What about the preamps? I've got 4 mics on drums, a few for guitars, DI bass, and vocals. Should I look into a mixer as well?
 
ok..input

I bought the 2488... No, I wouldn't recommend it for Live gigs.
Too many vibration comments causing disc-lockup.
It's also made of plastic (could make a travel case?).
None of these issues concerned me for my application.
Sliders are nice but not like a Mackie mixing board type.

as your original thread..yeah it has USB, tracking is tremendous, 24/24...
fine for HR.

but for LIVE.. bars? rough outdoor gigs with humans setting beers on the unit...
8 inputs total.. 4qty XLR, 4qty 1/4"...

nope. i'd keep searching.
 
take a look at the fostex vf160. out of the box you can record 8 tracks at once.
 
Yes the AW16G has only 2 XLR inputs. The pres are not the best although I doubt the pres on any of these type machines are great.
 
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