Multi track

[JohnBJohn]

Can i record multiple tracks at the same time on Logic(if not any other program) with an Alesis usb mixer? I'd like to be able to have the separate inputs recorded into logic individually rather then as a single track.

 

[gecko zzed]

There is no obstacle within Logic that would prevent recording multiple tracks concurrently.

There may be a limitation with the Alesis USB mixer. You didn't specify which model, but I think they just send a stereo mix down the USB cable.

This means that the most you can do is two tracks at once, sending one instrument down left and another down the right channel.

 

[JohnBJohn]

I realize that I didn't quite understand how interface recording works so I guess I should be sure of details. So logic should accept separate inputs as individual tracks depending on the interface? If so is there some kind of database that lists what interfaces are compatible?

 

[gecko zzed]

Interfaces come in all shapes and sizes, and they are pretty much all compatible with recording software (there are some exceptions).

You need to be clear about the distinction between multiple inputs and multiple outputs on interfaces. It seems to me that you are seeking multiple outputs if you want to record multiple tracks simultaneously.

Typically USB interfaces (Tascam, Alesis,etc) have stereo, i.e. two track outputs, and multiple inputs on the interface are sent to just these two outputs. That means the receiving software will only 'see' two tracks.

For the software to see more than two tracks, you need an interface that has more than two outputs. For example, the firewire Firepod interface has eight outputs (and matching inputs), and thus will send eight separate tracks to the computer. In this case, the receiving software will 'see' these eight inputs, and each will appear (generally) as a separate track input.