Newbie Setup for ~$400

[CladInShadows]

Is it possible to get a reasonable set up for one dude and an electric acoustic for $400 or less? I am basically starting from scratch and would like to be able to record on my computer. I have an AMD 1800+ with 1 gig RAM and a worthless soundcard. What all do I need to start recording something respectable on my computer? I assume from reading several posts on this forum that I need a new mic, a preamp, and a new soundcard with some software. What are some reasonable entry level items?

 

[Gidge]

Delta Audiophile 2496 soundcard $125

M-Audio DMP3 preamp $150

Marshall MXLv67 microphone $99

N-Track software $69

a bit over budget if you really must come in at budget, go with the M-Audio Audio Buddy preamp......

 

[manning1]

good advice gidge.

n track, magix,powertracks,traktion,multitrackstudio
are all good imho.
if you can , i would save up for a great river preamp one day. very sweet.

 

[CladInShadows]

thanks a lot to both of you...I think I'll look into all of those recommendations...does anyone else think that a different brand or item would be better for a beginner than those listed above?

 

[tdukex]

I am down with Gidge's recommendation. The DMP3 ($199) and Audiophile ($149) are the best you can buy in that price range IMO. You can get them for the price he listed, but it will take some effort.

The Studio Projects VTB1 preamp ($129) and B1 microphone ($79) would also be good choices, although the DMP3 gives you two channels and the VTB1 only one.

 

[Gidge]

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2577826734&category=3278

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2576835208&category=23784

 

[Gidge]

http://www.8thstreet.com/product.asp?ProductCode=6458&Category=Microphones

http://www.fasoft.com/register.shtm

 

[CladInShadows]

Well I sort of feel like a fool for asking, but exactly what types of cords do I need for hooking all these items together? I need something for the microphone to go to the preamp, and potentially the guitar as well (but I already have a 1/4" regular guitar cord for that...the dmp3 has 1/4" inputs i believe) and also what connects the preamp to the audiophile? Thanks so much for all of your help!! I would be lost without it!

 

[CladInShadows]

bump?

 

[charlesthegreat]

you'll need xlr cables. xlr will connect your nice mxlv67g (which i just ordered also ) to your preamp. im not familiar with preamps, i'll be using a behringer ub2222fx to give my condenser mics their power, but i could make a guess that connecting the preamp to the audiophile uses xlr as well.

 

[insider33]

where'd you get the v67g

Hey charlesthegreat,

I'm ready to get one of those v67g's also, but I'm searching for the best deal. So far, the best price I've seen is at humbuckermusic.com for $89. (I ordered a digital recorder from them about a year and had a good experience, so I know they're reputable.)

Anyway, I was wondering where you got yours? Or if anybody else knows a good deal, let me know.

 

[charlesthegreat]

Re: where'd you get the v67g

Hey charlesthegreat,

I'm ready to get one of those v67g's also, but I'm searching for the best deal. So far, the best price I've seen is at humbuckermusic.com for $89. (I ordered a digital recorder from them about a year and had a good experience, so I know they're reputable.)

Anyway, I was wondering where you got yours? Or if anybody else knows a good deal, let me know.

i got mine at zzounds for 100 bucks. but the v67g doesnt come with a shockmount, so thats another 20 bucks. i went to humbuckermusic and they dont have any shockmounts . plus at zzounds you get free shipping and no tax.