recording with powered mixer?

[mnfrmr4]

Hello all-

Here is my situation:
I have a 4 person band (bass, drums, 2 guitars) that I am trying to record and mix on my computer. We are pretty new to the whole recording thing. We have a Yamaha EMX5014C powered mixer for live performances http://www.yamahaproaudio.com/products/mixers/emx5014c/, 2 monitors, 2 speakers, stands, cables, and enough vocal and instrument mics to last a lifetime.

My question:
What do I need to do/buy to record us using my laptop?

I realize that the bass can go DI into the mixer (I've heard this is recommended for a better sound), and that the guitars can either be amped and then mic'd or go DI for a cleaner sound. We have a basic understanding of mic'ing the drums, but any advice on that front is also welcome.

Also, will I be able to mix the recording on my computer using software after the session, or will I only be able to mix it live on the EMX5014C?

What are the recommended setups using what we already have, and what are the ideal setups that we would need to purchase other equipment for? Ideally we would like to get away with what we already have .

I realize I asked a bunch of questions there, so thanks in advance for the help.

Cheers

 

[Racherik]

Cheapest way is this:

Buy yourself a behringer UCA222 and an RCA cable from your local guitar center. Plug the UCA222 into your laptop and use the RCA cable to the tape in/outs on the mixer.

Buy the software program Reaper and install it. Record the whole band at once using a click track. Then use the AUX bus on the mixer to setup a headphone monitor mix and then have each member of the band re-track themselves 3 times without the other musicians playing. Pick the best takes and then mix down.

Start with reading the sticky posts in the Noob then read the sticky posts in all the other forums.

Racherik