Questions about what would serve me best...

[THicks]

Well I am not a complete newbie, but I didn't want to post somewhere this has been covered a thousand times. I have read many posts but none gave me what I am looking for. I have recorded on pc for quite sometime, but only for my own enjoyment. Now my band is recording a full cd, using a studio for drum recording, then the singer is recording the vocals and some guitar. I will be recording lead/rhythm on mine. I have a home built, powerful computer, Sonar Producer edition and high quality instruments and amps. I have been using an Audigy 4 for home recording (I know, I know).

So here's the question...
Do I get a decent soundcard, not great but decent (audiophile,e-mu,etc..) and a small mixer? Or a card w/breakout like m-audio 44. Or get a plug and play interface and skip the sound card. I haven't had much luck, I had a m-audio fast track pro and it was a headache. Ended up returning it. I have a DI box I use right now to go into the computer. My amp has line level output also. I just don't want to buy something then six months from now be kicking myself. If anyone does guitar or one instrument recording at home for things other than jamming, please give me some ideas. The cd will mastered professionally, were just laying the tracks.

Sorry for the novel.....
Tim

 

[Reds Garage]

One option might be to rent something that is compatible with your software, and has good converters/preamps etc. (maybe a couple good mics too while you're at it) Do your tracking, and test equipment at the same time...? If you're paying money to have drums tracked in a studio, and then again to have it mastered, you probably don't want to go DI. Just sounds bad. Especially if you have good gear, mic it up!

 

[THicks]

That's a viable option, I hadn't considered renting yet. Thanks!

 

[Nick98338]

My recordings are somewhat similar to what you have described. 2 acoustic guitars, sometimes electronic keyboard, sometimes bass guitar, 2 or 3 vocal tracks. I use a Presonus Inspire 1394 interface. $190 street price. Works well with Sonar v4 and Cubase LE. It has served my needs well. Small and easy to use. I use it with my desktop computer in the home studio, and I use it with a laptop to do tracks on the road.

 

[battleminnow]

Hey Tim, do you have the option of firewire? If so, I have always liked the Mackie Onyx firewire mixers. I have a 1220 for sale in the free ads forum. I'd be happy to tell you more about it whether you are interested in mine or just the technology, but I have has a hard time finding anything any better for recording multiple channels with great preamps. The thing I like about the Onyx is that I can always use a small mixer live. I have owned the 1640 as well and I think they are really the best bang for your buck.

Pete