New to recording

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MCtunesmith

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I play guitar and write songs. I have no recording exp.
I'm looking at the DigiTech GNX4 or the Fostex VI80EX, as introductory equipment to start the learning process with. Is it possible to put together a good demo disc of guitar/vocals with this type of equipment?

I would greatly appreciate any input re: this type of gear.....
Thanks for your help!
 
if you have a pc thats recent you can get loads of tracks and flexibilty.
just search under my name for hundreds of tips ive posted in the last year to help folks like yourself.
peace.
ps - if after reading the tips , you have any q's - just ask.
 
Of options you posted, the Fostex would be the more versatile of the two. It is designed specifically for recording, while the Digitech is a guitar processor that also happens to have a recorder built into it.

Yes, you can put together a decent demo with the Fostex, but at that point it's more about the know-how on how to record than the equipment you use. You have to learn how to eek every last bit out of that device. You have to bounce tracks down in the right order and pay very close attention to the EQ.
 
Given that I have no experience with these components, the DigiTech looks awfully good given the requirements you stated. You get your eight tracks, MIDI, drums, mic preamp w/phantom power so you can use dynamic or condensor mics, and PC manipulation. All in a guitar pedalboard. I do not know what size of compact flash you get, but you will almost certainly want to upgrade it, so keep that cost in mind.

Looks awfully nice.
 
I've used a GNX4 before, and it's anything but easy to use. It is primarily a guitar effects board, so little attention is payed to the usability of the recording functions.
 
Now if that last post isn't spam, then I don't know what is. And I wouldn't be surprised if all the software that comes with it is cracked.
 
sile2001 said:
Of options you posted, the Fostex would be the more versatile of the two. Yes, you can put together a decent demo with the Fostex, but at that point it's more about the know-how on how to record than the equipment you use. You have to learn how to eek every last bit out of that device. You have to bounce tracks down in the right order and pay very close attention to the EQ.
Click to expand...

With respect, I disagree, regarding the bouncing tracks in the right order... Tracks can be bounced in any order, and actually, order doesn't have a great deal to do with it. Also, properly recorded tracks don't need too much EQ at all. If they do, then they probably weren't recorded properly.

The VF80 is a great machine that can leave you with a great CD, with no more or less effort than other options.
 
This is not the most exciting answer but I strongly recomend you get a 4 track cassette deck (as cheap as 50 bucks used) a couple mics and a cheap reverb and start learning how to record. tiny cost and you will learn a ton and can sound cool. I would take the set up I just mentioned over any of the little digital recorders (easier to use and sounds better)
 
MCtunesmith said:
I play guitar and write songs. I have no recording exp.
I'm looking at the DigiTech GNX4 or the Fostex VI80EX, as introductory equipment to start the learning process with. Is it possible to put together a good demo disc of guitar/vocals with this type of equipment?

I would greatly appreciate any input re: this type of gear.....
Thanks for your help!
Click to expand...

The VF80EX is a full 16-bit machine that you can plug your guitar straight into. It's one of the easiest recorders to use, plus there's a good Fostex Forum on this board. Also, consider getting a Studio Projects B1 mic, with shock mount for $100.00. This would be a great starter system, and capable of excellent results without ever leaving the box.
 
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