Recording electric guitar- HP Laptop-

[letThereBeLight]

I'm interested in finding the best way to record an electric guitar on a laptop. I've never used a recording program before but I've been told to use Ableton Live 8. From what I understand I also need an "interface". If you have any suggestions please feel free, I need help . Thanks!

 

[mjbphotos]

The best way: mic up an amp. If that's not an option, a DI box to amp emulation software (gearbox, Podfarm, Guitar Rig, for example). An audio interface is really needed to convert audio signal to digital for recording, but if you get one to record an electric guitar, make sure it has the preamp needed for a direct-in instrument.

I suggest you read the sticky-ed thread at the top of the Newbie section of this forum before buying anything.