Just starting recording... need gear recommendations

[Almostaverage88]

So yeah, title says it all here. I've been doing little bits of recording with Audacitiy through my pod for a while but it's really not the greatest of sound, plus I can't record bass/drums/keyboard/vocals. So I'm looking to step up and start buying some things.

My starting budget is probably like 3-400 bucks. I don't need to start off with the best of everything really, just a nice mic, a pre-amp or mixer or whatever I need, and I guess maybe some software.

Shoot away :-)

[10571z]

get a sm57!

people will flame and yell and cry but i suggest download the software.. its really expensive and it will eat into you budget!


/beeeeeggginnnnnnnggg to flame

[pitchfork]

well, it depends what you mean by "download"
you could always "acquire" the software if you know what i mean

but cubase is ace just so you know :p

[Moseph]

A smart selection of hardware will often include some DAW software with it. Lexicon, Tascam, M-Audio, and Edirol will often include some form of OEM DAW software with their product (usuall Cubase LE or Ableton Live Lite).

Additionally, there are plenty of freeware resources available (Audacity, Kristal Audio Engine, REAPER 0.999, Usine). Software can also be had for very little money as well (energyXT, Luna, SAW Studio, n-Track Studio). Most major name products can be purchased for around $100 (Cubase SE, Sonar Home, Fruity Loops Studio 6).

As for hardware itself, I'm going to assume you want to keep working with your computer, and that you're working alone.

For most of your tracks, you can probably get by with either a Tascam US-122 or a Lexicon Delta. Both are 2-channel USB audio interfaces with MIDI attachments. Both will run you $200 or less. Both come prepackaged with Cubase SE. If you have a preference, the Tascam comes with Gigastudio Solo (a sampler software) and the Lexicon comes with a Pantheon Reverb Plugin. You can decide what is more important to you.

For mics, it depends on your style, but for a good starter mic you'll probably want to go with the Shure SM57. It'll likely fulfill your needs early on.

Unless you already have a kit, I'd suggest looking into Hydrogen Drum Machine, which is originally a Linux software, but has been ported to Windows and OSX. The port for windows is fairly stable if your computer can handle it and you don't delve into many of the advanced features. Other alternatives are Hammerhead Rhythm Station or Drumbox, both are freeware.

Also, don't worry too much about plugins included with your DAW. There is a wide range of excellent freeware plugins available that will serve you well (and in many cases far better than whatever is included with your DAW software).

[Almostaverage88]

I have a drum kit... will one mic be enough to record it decently?

[Moseph]

I have a drum kit... will one mic be enough to record it decently?

That's a matter of personal taste. My vote is no. However, your price range probably isn't high enough to get the gear you'd need for what I would consider a good setup and still purchase your other equipment.

If you can't go above $400, then I'd suggest:

AKG C430 2-pack ($150)
Yamaha MG 10/2 Mixer ($100)
AKG D110 Kick drum mic ($70)
Audio-Technica PRO 63 dynamic mic ($60)

Those are all pretty good pieces of entry-level gear.

After cabling and stands, you should be just over $400 (something like $435). You'll be stuck with your crappy computer soundcard and whatever freeware you're most comfortable with though.