What equipment do I need- computer recording help!

[tkdtiger7]

I used to record using a computer microphone and audacity on my old Compaq laptop and the recordings were decent quality (at least they were clear). Well, my Compaq laptop is no more and I have replaced it with an HP laptop (about a year ago). When I try using audacity with my HP, there is a TON of static and clicking in the background so Ive pretty much given up on it.. I tried everything people told me to do, I tried using different microphones (the computer mics vs. the built in mics) Ive changed around the sound and recording settings but nothing seems to help. I typically record vocals with either guitar or piano... Ive saved up about $200 to invest in recording equipment but I don't know what to buy (I already have a good dynamic microphone but I don't have a mixer or anything so I haven't been able to use it with my computer.) If I bought a mixer, would it solve my recording issues? If so, what kind of mixer do I need? (keeping in mind my budget- what is the best thing I could buy). If a mixer isn't what I need, please enlighten me. I have very minimal knowledge of recording equipment and Im feeling very lost. HELP!

p.s. the equipment I currently have is as follows:
shure dynamic microphone+cable+mic stand
HP dv2000 series laptop
guitars: acoutics/acoustic electrics/electrics with amps+cables+effects (what is best to use??)
piano
midi keyboard
audacity freeware

 

[stealth_prod]

Well honestly I would not expect to get very far with $200. IMO you would be better off saving up alot more and doing some research into different setups. If you go to http://www.tweakheadz.com/guide.htm it will give you alot of good info into different setups.

IF and only if you really want something now I would suggest a USB Mic. I know shure makes one now and a couple other companies. Most of them come with some kind of LE software like Sonar. I used to own a samson C01U and it worked but the quality was always so/so. If your worried about top notch quality and you dont want to wait, then my easiest advice would be to take that $200 and go to a real studio. Hope some of that helped. Good luck.

 

[Dave_M]

Possibly start with an inexpensive USB recording interface. The M-Audio Fast Track USB Computer Recording Interface is only $69 at Musician's Friend. I didn't find any USB interfaces in your price range that included a MIDI input though.