What mixer? That is the question.

[jayster10125]

I am setting up a DAW for good-quality recordings, but I'm on a tight budget. I've figured out a couple components for my system including that I will buy 2 SP B-1 LDC mics, an e-mu 1212m soundcard, and a mixer of some sort. What mixer should I get? I am most intrigued by the Soundcraft Compact 10 mixer for its features and apparent quality. Are there good pres in it? That is at the top of my price range for a mixer and I wouldn't need any more than 8-12 inputs (considering about half are usually stereo from CD players and such.) I'm not necessarily trying to get to the top of my budget, but I want something that will last. A number of people have said good things about Soundcraft.
Also, could someone direct me towards a good place to find good quality cables? XLR, TRS, TS...but for good prices: e.g. not Monster cable (good cable but you pay for the name)

Thank you in advance for all of the help!

 

[Bulls Hit]

Don't discount the Yamaha MG range. Good quality at very competitive prices

 

[masteringhouse]

IMHO if you're on a tight budget but want the best quality recordings using a DAW, don't invest in a mixer. Get the best outboard pre that you can afford. Many pres also come with a built-in compressor and/or EQ.

The pres on many low-end boards are a real compromise. If you can mix "in the box" stay that way until you can get a quality board, or get a cheap board for monitoring purposes only. What goes in, stays in!

 

[jayster10125]

IMHO if you're on a tight budget but want the best quality recordings using a DAW, don't invest in a mixer. Get the best outboard pre that you can afford. Many pres also come with a built-in compressor and/or EQ.

The pres on many low-end boards are a real compromise. If you can mix "in the box" stay that way until you can get a quality board, or get a cheap board for monitoring purposes only. What goes in, stays in!

Thanks, but I need to plug in more than just a couple of mics, and I don't have the money to get a more expensive interface and pres that would allow me to put in bass guitar and keyboards and stuff.