questions about digital recorders

[Nick_D]

id like to know the best possible digi recorder with these specs:

more than 2 inputs ( for simultaneous recording )
4 or 8 tracks
300$-ish price

thanks!
(note: im looking for one as i dont want to use a computer/software as of where i am recording)

also let me know sites/best places to purchase this

 

[Lt. Bob]

Fostex MR-8HD does 4 simultaneous inputs ..... around $400. I have one I use for live recording ..... works pretty good though mixdown abilities are limited. I just transfer them over to my bigger rig for mixing.

 

[The Green Hornet]

Yo Nick:

You should look at the Boss 1600 CD SIAB. [studio in a box]

It can do 8 tracks at once; however, seriously, how many folks are going to do 8 tracks at once? Not many in home recording.

But, having 16 available tracks, NOT INCLUDING THE VIRTUAL tracks, makes life interesting to some extent.

I like to records, pops, dings, rings, and zings on tracks after I have the song about done. These little extra bits really work your creativity chops. And, once in a while, you get something very, very good--so good it is hard to do it over and get the same results.

I like to keep my recording as simple as possible--I don't bounce tracks--really no need with 12 to 16 available, and again, not counting the virtual tracks also available.

The Yamaha AW1600 is also worth a look. I use the older model Yam 2816. It does good work but has too many routing menus, and other menus that may be all right but seem to clutter the recording process.

The newer SIAB or DAWS should be made straight-forward: Push to record tracks, push to add effects, and push to mix and eliminate all the extra junk that really may work for engineers who design the box but are a bit too intricate for the groove person wanting to record, sing, and do a CD with QUALITY SOUND.

Guess I've pontificated enough.

Cheers,

Green Hornet

 

[Lt. Bob]

Yo Nick:

You should look at the Boss 1600 CD SIAB. [studio in a box]

It can do 8 tracks at once; however, seriously, how many folks are going to do 8 tracks at once? Not many in home recording.

But, having 16 available tracks, NOT INCLUDING THE VIRTUAL tracks, makes life interesting to some extent.

I like to records, pops, dings, rings, and zings on tracks after I have the song about done. These little extra bits really work your creativity chops. And, once in a while, you get something very, very good--so good it is hard to do it over and get the same results.

I like to keep my recording as simple as possible--I don't bounce tracks--really no need with 12 to 16 available, and again, not counting the virtual tracks also available.

The Yamaha AW1600 is also worth a look. I use the older model Yam 2816. It does good work but has too many routing menus, and other menus that may be all right but seem to clutter the recording process.

The newer SIAB or DAWS should be made straight-forward: Push to record tracks, push to add effects, and push to mix and eliminate all the extra junk that really may work for engineers who design the box but are a bit too intricate for the groove person wanting to record, sing, and do a CD with QUALITY SOUND.

Guess I've pontificated enough.

Cheers,

Green Hornet

All nice machines but nowhere near the target price of $300. Even the Fostex I reccomended is $100 more than what he's wanting to spend. But I think it's about as cheap as you can go and get 4 track simultaneous.

 

[The Green Hornet]

Yo Lt. Bob:

[I was enlisted and always respect officers!]

Well, for 300 bucks, you really don't get much to work with for quality--however, as the days pass, improvements gain even in low price gear; but, it's all in the quality of sound one wants.

Even with a higher priced DAW or PC program, there are are things like mic pres for vocals, and other sounds. As well, limiters, and enhancers and reverbs. Funny how so many "add-ons" are available that are very cool types of gear.

I did start with a 4 track tape deck, a ways back. I guess I was happy with a few things I got out that unit--much happier with my present gear but WE all have to start somewhere.

I still remember my 49 Ford coupe--wouldn't, however, want another one like that.

Green Hornet