Need some advice on recording w/ AlesisQS8

[Bort]

Right now I just use a four track to record from my Alesis, but I want to be able to record some higher quality stuff to do some freelance music work for an ad agency my friend works at.

I haven't used recording software since like 1998, so I really don't know what some good software would be. I also don't know how I would hook my Alesis into my computer to record sound, and not just MIDI. Can anyone give me a few pointers? I'm looking to spend up to $500 to get some good equipment/software.

Thank you,
-Bort

 

[Krakit]

You need to purchase and audio interface (external or internal) and plug your left and right outputs into it, or barring that just your left mono output into it.

On the cheapest cheap you could just send your left output into your soundcards line input.

On the not as cheap (much better) you could buy the $99 E-mu soundcard and plug both outputs into that.

Carl

 

[Bort]

What would some good software be? I want to able to do everything I can on my four track. Like adjust recording volume, and add distortion. I'm sure this is basic stuff that software can do now, but I just want to make sure I get something I can use. I'm really behind the game when it comes to computer recording.

-Bort

 

[Krakit]

I don't think that there is a software studio on the market that can't do all of those things and much more.

If your needs are truly simple you can just buy PG Musics PowerTracks. It's very simple to use and can easily record two audio stereo tracks (with the right hardware). It has a bunch of built in effects (including distortion). The best part is that it costs less than $30. This is exceptional bang for the buck. Why not download the demo and see what you think?

Carl

 

[Atterion]

I agree. If you are just looking for basic audio/MIDI with FX, and maybe a couple of soft-synths, there are many low budget software options available (Power Tracks, MAGIX Music Studio, Traktion, etc.). which is good because it will allow you more money for hardware (or additional software). As a side note, most hardware audio interface cards include some form of sequencing/recording software. They are often "Lite" versions of some of heavyweight software packages too.

 

[Bort]

I just want to make sure that these cheaper softwares will allow me to record the digital sound from my keyboard. I really like the selection of sounds on my Alesis, and I don't want to lose those. I really don't care about the normal MIDI sounds, I just want the digital sounds. Is a soundcard and ProTracks all I'm going to need? I tried the demo, it looked like they only allowed MIDI input.

Thanks for all the help guys,
-Bort