The Whole Deal

[ryansharif89]

OK guys and girls, here goes.

I'm planning to record acoustic guitar, vocals, and basic MIDI. I'm pretty sure that I want to use Sonar 4 HS as my software and an Audio M 2496 soundcard. Can anyone give me a complete list of equipment that I'll need so I don't miss anything out? Also, if you have any specific recommendations on a piece of equipment, I would appreciate any information!

So far I know I'm looking for the following:

1. Recording Software
2. Soundcard
3. Vocal/Instrument Mics
4. Sufficient cables
5. Monitors
6. MIDI keyboard

I have a feeling that I'm missing something, any help???
Thanks.

 

[Synkrotron]

a studio perhaps

 

[ryansharif89]

hehehe, I'll work that out.

 

[Synkrotron]

Seriously though... it's a major consideration especially if you are recording acoustics/vocals... you really need two different rooms in my (newly formed) opinion. I didn't appreciate, until the other day, how noisy recording gear can be and if you go for say condenser mics for vocals and acoustic guitar then you'll need to isolate them from as much external sound sources as possible including birdy noises, traffic and such... it's amazing what they'll pic up.

You could, of course go for a hypercardioid dynamic mic (I've got a Shure SM58a Beta) which would help a little (but not much).

If you are thinking of recording MIDI too then decide if you are either going the softsynth or hardware synth route. I you like hardware then you could get a synth with integral keyboard and therefore not need a separate controller keyboard...

Sonar is great... I like it

Sound card you suggest would be fine I guess...

Cables can cost a fortune, consider making your own but using bulk purchased quality materials... take a bit of doing but if you're up for it you can save a bit of cash

 

[ryansharif89]

Great advice, thanks a lot!