Need advice to get started

[spruce]

Alright I'm finally taking the plunge into recording. I just bought a new PC laptop with 2GB RAM and a fast processor. Now I need to figure out what I should all get to get started. I guess I need an interface and software. I don't want to break the bank. I will be attempting to write originals and I will play all the instruments. For drums I'll probably have to program them in with the software for now. It would be even better if I could use this gear to record my band live. Recommendations for interface and software for under $300?

Thanks!

[7sickstrings]

Originally Posted by spruce

Alright I'm finally taking the plunge into recording. I just bought a new PC laptop with 2GB RAM and a fast processor. Now I need to figure out what I should all get to get started. I guess I need an interface and software. I don't want to break the bank. I will be attempting to write originals and I will play all the instruments. For drums I'll probably have to program them in with the software for now. It would be even better if I could use this gear to record my band live. Recommendations for interface and software for under $300?

Thanks!

For under 300 bones, your options are not just limited, they're almost non-existent. Realistically, I'd say your only GOOD option is going to be a Line6 TonePort. Best bet would be the UX2. You'll get two simultaneous inputs, guitar and bass amp models, vocal preamps, and phantom power. You also get a copy of Ableton Live Lite, which while functional, is very much a starter sequencer.

The set up I'm running right now (that I'm VERY happy with) is:
Sonar 6 Producer
Project5 (software synthesis workstation, primarily used for drum sampling and sequencing)
Line6 TonePort UX2
Line6 Gearbox Plug In
Line6 Pod XTLive
Native Instruments Guitar Rig 1 & 2
FL Studio 5 (again, for drums mainly)
Korg Legacy Collection (software synths)
Native Instruments Reaktor, FM7, Pro53
Waves Diamond/Platinum Collection (DSP)
SoundForge
T-Racks Mastering Suite
There's also a truckload of other plug ins that are on my system from Antares, Nomad Factory, Lexicon, PSP, Rgc Audio, and others.
On top of that, there are numerous pieces of rackmount outboard gear. Compressors, tuners, amp sims, drum machines, and effects.

Are YOU going to need all that? Most likely not. Hell, I don't need a lot of it. If I had to cut down to just a few pieces of gear though, I'd keep Sonar, all the Line6 stuff, and a drum machine. Still, with just that, you're looking at around $2G. One thing to remember though...

HARD DRIVE SPACE IS YOUR FRIEND!

Make sure you have lots of it. I have 750GB and would love to have some more.

[HamerPrototype]

For home recording all you need is an input into your computer (I use a stereo out from my delay via 1/8" cable) and CoolEdit

If you can handle all the instruments and drum programming, I don't see why this can't be an inexpensive option.

I have an example I did for a friend if you'd like to hear it.


HP

[timdouglas90]

its true, all you need to get is cubase, reason and an interface for your pc

some software will come bundled with the interface usually reason adapted if you go for m-audio, then you can just get the try before you buy cubase...sorted