Which mixer for my application?

  • Thread starter Thread starter NLAlston
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NLAlston

NLAlston

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Hi there,
I have read as many posts (as I have had time to) regarding mixers, but they all seem to be a little beyond what I would need. My computer sequencing software is Cakewalk Pro Audio 9, and I (don't laugh) would sing into it by micing through the 1/8" sound card acceptor. Needless to say, that action left very much to be desired. I am told that a mixer and a better mic should set me straight, for what I want to do. What would be the best mixer for me? I wouldn't need a mammoth number of mic inputs, because the max that would be used simultaneously is two. But I would want a decent mixer that would not be an over-kill. Any info would really be appreciated.

Nate.
 
how are you going to get the outputs of the mixer into the computer? the current soundcard?... maybe if you just want 2 xlr inputs you could buy one of the soundcard/breakout-boxes with xlr inputs and preamps... that'd get you decent sound, but the setup would probably cost $150-$300... if you have the input to your computer setup, then it's also likely that you may not need a mixer... perhaps a preamp (like an art dual mp which has 2 decent preamps and phantom power)... if you do want a mixer though, i'm stumped on a 2 input one
 
skweeks's comments are all valid and correct.

However, do not make the same mistake as I did. Do not use the word over-kill lightly.

Your current requirements may be only for two simultaneous inputs, but guaranteed, once you get going this requirement will double and double again.

If you spend money now, buy the best you can to address your existing requirements and much, much more and it will take away the pain later to upgrade to your new requirements.

I would suggest you buy a mixer (if you can afford it) and don't worry about the extra inputs, you may use it later.
 
Skweek's & Free_Spirit,

THANX to you both for sharing your knowledge with me. I didn't mean to suggest that I sought a mixer with just two inputs, only that the maximum number of simultaneous singers would be two. I expected to have a minimum of four XLR inputs, but that I really wouldn't need much more than that. I am very new to this and thought that I could "line" the mixer in to my sound card. Lately, though, I have been hearing so much about equipment needs (in the regard of computer recording) that I feel as if I am just touching the tip of the iceberg of what it could eventually cost me. What do you think of a dedicated stand alone unit such as the Yamaha MD-8, as opposed to a computer setup?
 
NLA here is a suggestion for you - the Behringer 802. It has 4 mono channels each with XLR and 1/4 line inputs, plus 2 stereo channels with 1/4. You get 3 band EQ, 2 effects sends, and panning for each channel. The main section has stereo main out, a stereo control room out, a stereo (RCA) input and output for a 2 track, and a headphone jack with level control. Oh and global phantom power if you want it. You can get it at Guitar center for $119. Such a deal....
 
if ALL your doing is using 2 mics
just get 2 preamps...

but getting a mixer is usually better... especially if U want to expand. But the stand alone preamps really sound good, so itz a toss up
 
If you're only doing two at a time I'd get a decent sound card (Check out Lexicon)and a stand alone mic pre. You'd have a pretty good front end and could do some serious quality recording.
 
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