What's the weakest link?

[Edge13]

I'm planning to replace most of the equipment in my setup to get a higher level of performance. I've got pretty specific pieces in mind. My question is, in what order should I purchase these? I'm assuming I should start with the weakest link in my setup and go from there. But which is the weakest link? I'd like to get some of your opinions.
Also, if you have suggestions as to better units that are in the same price range, that would be great.

1) Mackie 1202 VLZ-Pro: To replace a Tascam 424 that I'm using just for the mixer. I
record to my PC.
2) PreSonus MP20: To replace an ART Tube MP. I can't tell you how much I'm
disappointed with that unit (NOISY!).
3) RNC: I don't have a compressor right now. Was using an Alesis 3630 but got rid of
it because it "clicked" every time it kicked in. ??
4) Studio Projects C-1 or AT4033: To go along with an SM57 I have right now. I record
vocals, acst. guitar and an electric guitar amp.
5) Evect PS-6 monitors: I'm using standard home-stereo bookshelf speakers right now.
3-way, 5" woofer type. I really want to go with active monitors.
6) Event Mia soundcard: To replace an E-MU APS. I got it for the built-in MIDI synth.
I'm going to soft-synths so I won't need it anymore. I only record myself, so I
only need 2-in/2-out.

Any suggestions/opinions would be greatly appreciated!

 

[nattn]

1. Soundcard first. This is where it all starts.
2. Mic. Get the 4033. & keep your SM 57. Use the 4033 for vocals, double the mics for acoustic guitar, use the 57 for electric.
3. monitors. Alesis M1's are great.
4. Mixer...although you really don't need to have it. You can record directly into your soundcard as long as you have a preamp w/ phantom power. Try the Art pre directly into your new soundcard. it may be your tascam 424 that is creating the noise you are experiencing with the ART. If you end up purchasing the mackie, hold off on the pre. I hear that the Mackie Pre's are fantastic.
5. compressor. I am assuming that if you are using software synths, you probably record in cakewalk or cubase yes? If so, you should have some software compression that will do until you can get your hands on a good compression unit.
6. If you do not have one already, get a good midi-controller keyboard. I like the Roland PC-300.

-have fun!

 

[DavidK]

You didnt mention software. I assume you will be using a Daw, correct? I would get the software first, because the programs have steep learning curves, and you can save your money while learning how to record.

 

[Gidge]

Unless you need all those inputs on the Mackie, skip it and the Mia and get the Delta Omni Studio...has all the features of Mia plus a whole lot more...probably as many inputs as the Mackie, but only 2 preamps(the Mackie has 4)...but these preamps are superior to the Mackie in MANY peoples opinion.....$379.....takes care of 1,2, and 6.....

use your sm57 to mic the amp and it can even do the vocals and acoustic until you can get better...then, get a C1 or Marshall MXLv67 for the vocals and it will do decent on acoustic also.......

RNC compressor...sotware compression will do until you get it.....

Monitors - If you want Event's, go with the 20/20's....

 

[Edge13]

First off, thanks for the replies!

DavidK,
Yeah, I'll be recording on a DAW. I already have Cakewalk Guitar Studio, which I have been using for a couple of years now. I've downloaded demo versions of any sequencer programs that I can find but I keep coming back to Cubase. For some reason I just liked it and was immediately comfortable in there. Does anyone have any experience with this program?

Gidge,
Thanks for the tip on the Omni Studio! I checked it out on their website and it looks like it will solve the problems that I have with my current card. These problems are the reason I was going with a simple 2-in/2-out card like the Mia and a mixer. Plus, I don't have any need for more than 2 pre-amps at a time so that's no problem!

Thanks again!