Newbie with question on where mixer goes in flow chart

[electroman2]

Hi. I am not new to computers, but I'm new to computer recording. I have done a lot of research and reading on digital recording. I wanted a stand alone digital recorder, but I decided that I did not want to limit myself to 24bit/44.1 sampling rate and did not have many thousands to spend. So I went with an Echo Layla 3G to use with my computer. I actually had an older Echo Darla a few years ago that had only two inputs so this will be a considerable step up. Here is where I'm mixed up (no pun intended): Should I have a mixer? The Echo A/I unit comes with Tracktion software. Should I just use a mouse to do the mixing? I actually prefer buttons and faders. So, if I do buy a mixer, where does it go in the flow chart? Do I connect all my inputs such as mics and midi to the mixer and the mixer to the Echo Layla? That would make most of the Echo Layla's inputs useless would it not? I see that there are some mixers that are firewire or usb and work as a software mixer, not a hardware mixer. Anyone know about these? Hey, any help here would be greatly appreciated, as I have some confusion on this matter. Thanks!!

 

[NYMorningstar]

Should I just use a mouse to do the mixing? I actually prefer buttons and faders. So, if I do buy a mixer, where does it go in the flow chart? Do I connect all my inputs such as mics and midi to the mixer and the mixer to the Echo Layla? That would make most of the Echo Layla's inputs useless would it not? I see that there are some mixers that are firewire or usb and work as a software mixer, not a hardware mixer.

This depends on how you want to mix, you have options with an external mixer. You could mix with your software and keep things all digital. You could also mix by exporting your tracks to your mixer and mixdown with analog. Your deal, your choice. If you have a cheap mixer and lousy digital/analog converters then you're better off mixing in digital. Personally I like the analog mixing and hardware effects.

Welcome to the BBS.

 

[Lurk_R]

For me, it seems that most people use their mixer for its pre amps. You have them in that Layla, and you have multiple inputs. I guess, like NYMorningstar said, if you want to mix down to analog (I am doing this, but I am still a newbie) then get a mixer. If you are going to mix in your software, why spend the money on a mixer?

I am recording on a cheap 4 track analog multitracker, so I need a mixer because it only has on input, and only 4 tracks and I can't bounce down the tracks. I don't have the know-how or the time to learn how to use my pc for recording, so I do what I do. I am looking at getting the Yamaha MG10/2, since it's the one everyone recommends. But that is going to be a while from now, when I get the money together.

 

[electroman2]

Well, I just ordered a Yamaha MG12/4. I figured it will do for now until I can afford an 8 bus mixer. In the meantime, I will play with my hardware and software until I develop some feel for recording and see where it goes from there. It should be fun.