Sutton
Welcome and Happy New Year
Everyone has a different opinion on this topic. I've been doing PC recording and mixing since 1994, so I've been around the block quite a few times and used just about everything out there (I beta test for a lot of software companies, too). Whilst many may not agree with my preferences, I have found that they are the most robust and reliable for ME. You may have to do some of your own testing to reach your own conclusions, naturally.
Having said that, there are essentially several ways to go for the hardware side of things:
- An analog mixer and an audio card (i.e. Mackie 1202 and M Audio Delta)
- A digital mixer and an audio card with digital ins and outs (there are many on the market)
- An analog mixer with a firewire or usb connection -- which has integrated soundcard (or option for)
- A digital mixer with a firewire or usb connection -- which has integrated soundcard (or option for)
- An fully integrated digital solution (i.e. Digi 002, Project Mix I/O)
- The hybrid solution (which is what I have) - an RME Fireface box with a Mackie Big Knob :D
So, the question begs: what do you want to do and how technically savvy are you? Have you checked out the MBox bundles? http://www.sweetwater.com/store/category/c542. Pretty awesome. Then again, it's Pro Tools. Are you OK with that? I don't care for Pro Tools. Again, preference. I use a hybrid solution so I can use EVERY piece of software that comes out. I love having that flexibility. I sequence Cubase 4 (C4) and have bee using Cubase for YEARS and prefer it. I also use Reason, FL Studio, Ableton Live, and more recently Adobe Audition--which is just SUPERB for down and dirty recording and mixing (actually many enthusiasts and pros use it now.. I HIGHLY recommend this video for people who are just starting out.. http://www.homespuntapes.com/prodpg/prodpg.asp?prodID=1129&prodType= In it, Roger mcginnis records an entire song from start to finish with nothing but a mic, guitar, his voice, a small mixer, and a laptop.. running Adobe Audition. This is a MUST-SEE. I have a copy if you would like to borrow it. Just email me.
Here are my recommendations:
If you want to have a TOP NOTCH recording platform and be able to use nearly ANY software:
-RME Fireface 400, Mackie Big Knob, a fast CPU and at least 2+ GB of RAM
If you want a turnkey solution with little to no headaches to get up and running:
-Digi 002 for a complete turnkey solution that should have you up and running quickly
Very best,
Mark
"We all know sometimes life's hates and troubles
Can make you wish you were born in another time and space
But you can bet your life times that and twice its double
That God knew exactly where he wanted you to be placed.." - Stevie