Very new to this and need some advice

[Rjeezie]

Ok, so I've been reading online about a Very cheap and simple home studio set up and mics, and basically have confused myself! I don't need anything professional for a big band. Just something that will sound decent for vocals and maybe a piano (keyboard).

I was leaning toward a USB setup and a software (like Audacity, Cakewalk, Etc.) because of it's ease and cost.

However, during my research, I came across this site and basically saw everybody say stay away from USB!

So my question is, if I were to stay away from a USB mic, what all equipment do I need? (Remembering this is just for a vocalist and maybe piano)
Any suggestions or thoughts (Also, please explain what things are if you don't mind instead of just saying a name. Remember, I am very new to this!)

Thank you!

 

[c7sus]

If you already have a soundcard, you just need a mic, a preamp to amplify the mic signal to line level, and a couple cables.

For keyboard, (rather than acoustic piano) you need a MIDI interface. A USB MIDI interface is fine. Like a MIDIman or similar. And a MIDI cable.

If you want to record the audio from your keyboard you'll need a cable for that as well. Most likely an 1/8th inch stereo plug on one end and a pair of 1/4 inch mono plugs on the other. The 1/8th in plugs into your soundcard and the 1/4 in plugs to your keyboard audio outs.

 

[Rjeezie]

What do you think about Music Packages for what I am looking for?

http://http://pro-audio.musiciansfriend.com/product/PreSonus-Audiobox-USB-Recording-Package?sku=243008

or

http://pro-audio.musiciansfriend.com/product/Digidesign-Pro-Tools-Mbox-Mini-Package?sku=702525

 

[darrin_h2000]

Some interfaces come with a free lite version of studio software...but there is some free stuff out there if you look.

 

[Rjeezie]

Ok. So what would be a decent, relatively cheap setup for my needs? Which again, nothing professional, but still want a good quality sound for female vocals and a keyboard?

Like what would you suggest for the following?
Mic?
Audio Interface (mixer)?
Monitors or headsets?

(This is computer based by the way)

 

[darrin_h2000]

SM57 mic...and a Line6 UX2...should give you excellent results.

 

[Rjeezie]

SM57 mic...and a Line6 UX2...should give you excellent results.

It says that the Line6 UX2 is great for guitars? Since I'm not really using any guitars at all, would this still be a good choice?

With a SM57, would you recommend a pop filter?

Are there any other combos that would work well for my needs?

Sorry for all the questions, just trying to see what kind of reasonable options I have.

 

[darrin_h2000]

It does alot of stuff the other interfaces dont...but it is by far the best of the interfaces...you should look at what it can do before making the purchase.

 

[Rjeezie]

Yeah I read about it, just seemed everybody was talking about using it with guitars.

My only drawback is the price. Is there something else you would recommend (of course probably not as goo) but a little cheaper?

I heard a few people mention M-Audio Fast Track USB Computer Recording Interface.