Starting Computer recording

  • Thread starter Thread starter forsaknazrael
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forsaknazrael

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I plan, in the future, to buy an external soundcard for the purpose of recording.
But I don't have a laptop yet, so there's no real reason to buy one just yet.

However, I'd still like to record stuff. I have a fourtrack, but it's really just a pain to be doing it analog.

So i'd like to use my currect soundcard to record my stuff.

Here's the situation:
I plan to record vocals and guitar. Guitar will be recorded through a miked amp.
I have a Creative Sound Blaster Live! soundcard, and there's a joystick port, so I know i can just use that to record.

However, what do I need to record?
What's that cable I need to connect to my soundcard to record called? Does it allow mic inputs?
 
Anyone?
Just need to know what kind of cable to buy...

Edit: Okay, so I found out it's a MIDI cable.
How would I connect that to a microphone?
 
you're thinking of a game port to midi adapter cable. it's for midi, not audio.
 
The most basic thing you need if you're going to use the blaster is something to convert the usual 1/4 inch plugs or xlr from most audio gear to 1/8 inch mini plugs that are on that card. That said, you'd be better off I think just getting an M-Audio audiophile or something similar as the soundblaster does really kinda suck and there are far better options nowadays for little money. You'll probably also want some sort of small mixer or preamp to run in front of the card if you plan to use microphones. Thats a must if you want to use one that requires phantom power. There are many budget solutions to this need. Check around the forum.

The joystick port can be used for midi as Travis said, but not audio. If you're going to use the blaster, use the line in, not the mic in.
 
Ahh...okay. That makes alot of sense, thanks. Yeah, the SoundBlaster is really old, I just needed a soundcard.
I do have a converter for a 1/4 to 1/8, so I can use that.

But...
Maybe I'll just opt for a external port, then, cause, I would need a preamp in front of the mic.

I've been looking at the Edirol UA-25 and the M Audio FW Solo. What do you think?
 
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Depending on how many inputs you need i'd suggest forget using your soundcard and grab one of these:-

http://www.motu.com/products/motuaudio/ultralite/

or for more inputs , one of these:-

http://www.motu.com/products/motuaudio/828/

Realising that this may cost a bit more cash in the long run but they will service your needs well for many years.

I believe on buying the right gear first and not having to continuously sell,replace,upgrade if you can avoid it.

They work well in standalone mode and also provide a complete solution for interfacing your musical sources to any computer with a firewire card.

You'll find you can use it with your desktop now nad laptop later.

I use the 828MkII myself and it really is a great piece of gear. 1/2 hour to run through all of it's features and I know it like the back of my hand :D
 
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