Recording hardware/software advise...

SCOTT502

New member
Hey Everyone,

I need some advise from you guys. I just recently bought a Mac G5 with 1.5 gigs of ram. I had it loaded with Logic Express because I got a real good deal on the package.

I have never used any type of digital recording hdwr or software so I am completely new to this. I have a huge learning curve to deal with so if my questions seem simplistic forgive me.

As I understand it Logic Express is like the console /tape machine in an analog studio. It also has built in effects and virtual instruments. I think I pretty much have a handle that.

I know that I have to get a mic signal (or two as I plan on micing my cabinet) into the computer. There are both Firewire and USB ports in the computer and I have been told that it's best to get an interface (correct terminology?) that uses Firewire to reduce latency isssues. I would like to be able to lay down some grooves using the virtual instruments etc. then lay guitar tracks in real time while listening through the monitors or headphones. What piece of equipment would you recommend? My budget is about $700 for this piece of gear, although if I can save money here that's all the better as I still have to get new mics and monitors.
I want something that I can work with as I become more proficient at this.

If I need correcting on my terminology or understanding of the overall concept so far please let me know.

O.K., so...:34: ....if that's not enough, my buddy thinks I should scrap Logic Express altogether and pick up an M powered Pro-Tools package of some sort like the M-box 2. This way it's industry standard and pretty much turn-key.

What would you guys do? What are the benifits either way? Would some other direction be better? ANY help would be greatly appreciated!!! I've long since passed overwhelmed and am speeding towards fetal-position in a dark room.
 
Re: Recording hardware/software advise...

So many answers. If you are planning on using Virtual ins. and "sequencing" parts like bass lines etc. stick with Logic - PT is not at Logics level in the midi dept. If you plan on working in other pro studios learn PT software as it's the industry standard. For your interface check out the Focusrite Saphire (spelling?).
 
Re: Recording hardware/software advise...

If you've got $700 to play with, get the MBox2 and you're done. As for PT not being good with MIDI, that's what plug-ins apps like Reason are for ;)
 
Re: Recording hardware/software advise...

Thanks guys,

What about latency? I've heard a different response from every corner. Will I be able to record in real time over existing tracks? Is one setup better than another? Sorry for all the questions I just need clarification on so many things.
 
Re: Recording hardware/software advise...

SCOTT502 said:
Thanks guys,

What about latency? I've heard a different response from every corner. Will I be able to record in real time over existing tracks? Is one setup better than another? Sorry for all the questions I just need clarification on so many things.

The short answer is yes. If you get the MBox, you will be able to use zero latency monitoring for recording. For example, if you recorded a bass part, then recorded a guitar part over that, you would hear the bass part being played back and the guitar part live as you recorded. There would still be some degree of latency on the track, but you can compensate for that once you have finished recording, so it's essentially not a problem. I know my explanation may not make sense to you now ... all you have to know at the moment is that you will have no latency issues with the MBox.
 
Re: Recording hardware/software advise...

Alright last question regarding latency, you say there will still be some degree of latency when recording, how much? Will I have to be playing behind the beat or is it not enough to notice?
 
Re: Recording hardware/software advise...

SCOTT502 said:
Alright last question regarding latency, you say there will still be some degree of latency when recording, how much? Will I have to be playing behind the beat or is it not enough to notice?

It all just depends on the speed of your computer, how much ram you are using, if you have any plugins open ect. You can change buffer settings and what not to reduce it. Unless I have a lot of plugins open or something I can hardly tell there is any on my system.
 
Re: Recording hardware/software advise...

SCOTT502 said:
Alright last question regarding latency, you say there will still be some degree of latency when recording, how much? Will I have to be playing behind the beat or is it not enough to notice?

If you have zero latency monitoring which a lot of boxes these day offer you will not have any trouble playing the parts. Where you will notice some latency perhaps and this is system specific is when you look at the recorded audio file in for example PT or Logic. That is a very easy fix though and is done in the editing phase.
 
Re: Recording hardware/software advise...

SCOTT502 said:
Thanks so much guys!

You've been a big help....I've decided on the MBox2.

Just a word of caution before you buy do some research and make sure the M2 is working well with your software and hardware configuration.
 
Re: Recording hardware/software advise...

innerdreamrecords.co said:
Just a word of caution before you buy do some research and make sure the M2 is working well with your software and hardware configuration.

Big +1 here. ProTools is EXTREMELY picky when it comes to the computer it's hooked up to, right down to nitty gritty things like motherboard chipset etc. Have a look over the system requirements on Digi's website, and make absolutely sure your PC is compatible. Otherwise you will have to spend more money upgrading your PC, or tolerate constant drop-outs.

If you have a Mac, you're probably ok though.
 
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