Q. Hello, sorry to bother you but!...I'm 14 years old and I really wanna mix...unfortunately after reading everything on your page it doesn't tell me what I need to get started...I just want small used pieces of equipment to start off to learn etc. you understand (I hope) please help...

A. Hey, I was 14 and broke once myself (now I'm lots older and everything's broke :-). Anyway, it sounds like you're looking for a checklist of what to buy. Here's a good start:

1. you need a 4-track recorder, right? Cheapest you're going to find is one of the Tascam Porta 03 or 01 or Fostex, used, maybe $125 or so is all they're worth.
2. you need something to mix down to, like a cassette tape deck or boom box. All it needs is external line inputs (i.e. RCA jacks).
3. mics -- at least one for singing or micing your amp (I don't know what you play!). With most "pro" mics you will need an XLR-to-1/4" transformer/adapter, about $15 at Radio Shark.
4. cables to connect all the above or hooking to your synth output.
5. Don't forget tapes! You'll want some CRO₂ tapes for the multitrack, no longer than C-60s.

That's the bare minimum, plus a stereo system as a "monitor", or headphones to hear what's going on.
-- Dragon