What's left for me to do/get before I start recording?

[models4wives]

So I have the the instruments and amps and all that jazz but here's where I'm stuck in a rut. I have Sonar 8.5 on my laptop, a Blue Bluebird condenser mic with XLR cable, as well as an SM-57. For connecting my mic(s) to my computer, I thought about getting the Blue Icicle for adapting my XLR to to USB, as well as supplying my Bluebird mic with 48v phantom power it also creates. Could I also plug my SM-57 into the Icicle to use just as an adapter (and yeah, I know the 57 is dynamic and doesn't need phantom power) and that be okay? Or should I look at getting myself an interface(such as the Alesis 8 Firewire, Presonus Firebox, Digidesign Mbox 2 mini or M-AUDIO Ozone) to use instead? And since my laptop doesn't have a firewire port, I would have to get a Firewire to USB adapter and was wondering if that would cause any delay issues during recording process? I may sound ignorant, but I could really use some final direction since I'm almost ready to finally start recording (I hope..Cuz' I'm financially on running on E). Thanks guys, I appreciate it.

 

[shortedaman]

imo. i would definately get an interface.

 

[mjbphotos]

Unless you have firewire, or plan on updating the laptop, don't bother with a firewire interface, go with the USB. Never saw a Firewire-to-USB adapter.

 

[nate_dennis]

Definately get an interface. Also, you'll need some monitors (or at least a good set of headphones . . . . but monitors are prefered.)

 

[models4wives]

Would you have any suggestions for a good set of headphones or monitor speakers for under $100? All I have right now are cheap audio technica ath-t22 headphones.

 

[moresound]

your not going to get new monitors for $100. maybe used on ebay.

Headphones, well maybe 10 to 20 major companies making 15 to 20 model ranging from $20 to...I'll stop at $500.
You just don't want the kind that gives you artificial bass boost and you want a closed back pair if your using them while recording live to other tracks.
I kinda like the Sernnheiser HD 280 Pro for under $100.

 

[TheChikenMaster]

There are some great interfaces with usb connections look em up

 

[models4wives]

Excellent, I just bought a barely used Line 6 UX2 interface for 90 bucks here in my town. Next step?

 

[Richard Monroe]

Next step- get some Audio processing software and load it on to your laptop. Many folks are impressed by Reaper, which is easy to use and is a $60 download. Audacity is not as popular, but it's free. Take your pick. You now begin several years of trial and error, as you descend into a bottomless pit of depression and poverty. People will tell you not to despair. They're just leading you on. Abandon hope all ye who enter here. BTW- I'm also a fan of the Sennheiser HD280's for under $100. I think I've got six pairs of them.-Richie