New computer: wanting to get quality recordings

[arthurnoah2]

So I recently got a Sony VAIO FW270. I thought i may be able to use the Zoom H4 with it, but as it turns out the H4 doesn't operate at USB 2.0. Now I am in search of the best quality for my dollars. I'm thinking I should be able to get a nice vocal mic, recording software, and interface for 2000. I've already got a SM57 to mic my guitar with. I'm really only wanting to do acoustic guitar rhythm/lead tracks and vocals. Please hit me up with your best suggestions.

 

[valem]

So I recently got a Sony VAIO FW270. I thought i may be able to use the Zoom H4 with it, but as it turns out the H4 doesn't operate at USB 2.0.

If I understand you correctly you're saying that the H4 is USB 1.1 and not 2.0?

If that's what you're saying your Sony laptop should still work with the H4.

Hope I'm understanding you correctly.

 

[arthurnoah2]

Well, i very well could be wrong about the H4...but i never could get my computer to recognize it as an interface. everytime i tried to record with it my computer would shut down. i'm not the most computer savvy. i checked around to the best of my ability, and the best resolution i could come to was when i read the faq on zoom.com that said i could experience problems when operating under 2.0. again, i could have come to some misunderstanding, but i needed to return the item before the return deadline expired. that is all in the past now and i need to know what will get me the best recordings. i've got about forty songs written i want to get recorded as quickly and in as great of quality as i can.

 

[valem]

I'm not too familiar with that laptop, but does it have only USB? Or does it have firewire ports also?

You're probably going to want to look into getting an audio interface so you can connect your mic to, and then get it to your laptop. Depending on the quality you're going to looking for you can spend a little or a lot.

You're might want to look into some decent preamps also.

If you don't already have recording software take a look at Reaper. I use it and I have nothing but praise for it. By the way it's free for a month and then it's only $50 (for a non-commercial license)

 

[arthurnoah2]

yeah it has one firewire connection and three USB. i've thought about just investing in a firewire mixer, but thats going to require a chunk of change i don't have right now. any specific interfaces you recommend?

 

[valem]

yeah it has one firewire connection and three USB. i've thought about just investing in a firewire mixer, but thats going to require a chunk of change i don't have right now. any specific interfaces you recommend?

I myself will be looking into either Presonus, or maybe MOTU. But that's not set in stone, and it will most likely be firewire. My suggestion is do some searching on sites like ZZsounds.com, musiciansfriend.com, etc.. Read reviews that people that have purchased the item. Once you have a few in mind ask around here and get some feedback (make sure you use the "search" button first)

Hope that helps.

Cheers