I haven't recorded any music since around 1991. I've no where near the chops or knowledge of music theory that I had back then. However, I've got the itch and I've built a desktop that can handle it now.

I downloaded and installed Cakewalk by BandLab which I've got to figure out. I kind of have the Audio/MIDI interface working, I think. I seem to have "de-lagged" it with some settings that I'm not sure I understand.

I'm looking to set down some drum tracks, programmed, not played, as I've got no rhythm in my feets. Then audio tracks for bass, guitar(s) and vocals (hopefully not mine).

Micing the good old Marshall doesn't seem to be in vogue any longer as plugins are pretty convincing these days but I think I should start with the real amp. Maybe. I'm having little confidence in my figuring this all out. I guess I just need a push in the right direction.

If you've done this sort of thing and have some tips or sites or suggestions for getting started or indispensable equipment/add-ons, that's appreciated.

I have been thinking about the same thing myself. Thinking about recording my guitar and then learning how to overdub a second guitar part.

I bought a gizmo that is the interface between the guitar and the computer but I need a good piece of software.

There are some cheap ones out there but then I suggest that you do not under any circumstances go to the website for Sweetwater.

I will probably get a laptop and dedicate to it, then dump the final results to my reel to reel

Reaper plus one of the Focusrite Scarlett interfaces should get you going.

I just checked and the interface box I bought was a Presonus 2X2 Audiobox

In another life, I used to compose and record little pop ditties on a 4 track Tascam reel to reel, with a 4 track Yamaha mixer. My recordings were real simple; I would record on to track 1 my Alesis drum machine mixed with rhythm guitar, getting a good volume balance and sound. Then on track two, a bass overdub, track 3 lead guitar. On all guitar/bass tracks, I used a Shure SM57 close miked to the amp, plugged into the Yamaha. On track 4, extra percussion; handclaps, tambourine, etc through my Alesis. Then I would mix down to a beat up 1/4 track Teac reel to reel at 7.5 ips and a cassette recorder for casual playback.

I don't have any of this anymore except the mic. I miss this hobby, and I too have thought about a computer based recording setup in recent years.

quote:

Originally posted by nhtagmember:
...but then I suggest that you do not under any circumstances go to the website for Sweetwater.

...

Any reason why? Ive bought from them and had a good experience, though they do canvas you a bit with follow-up, after sales calls from time to time. Just curious as I may buy there again, thanks.


OP/whomever - check out Audacity for free software. I have a keyboard controller and some mics we record with. Still need an audio interface to expand beyond the limits of my sound card.

quote:

Originally posted by bigeinkcmo:

quote:

Originally posted by nhtagmember:
...but then I suggest that you do not under any circumstances go to the website for Sweetwater.

...

Any reason why? Ive bought from them and had a good experience, though they do canvas you a bit with follow-up, after sales calls from time to time. Just curious as I may buy there again, thanks.

I took that to mean my wallet would suffer.

quote:

OP/whomever - check out Audacity for free software. I have a keyboard controller and some mics we record with. Still need an audio interface to expand beyond the limits of my sound card.

I require something that can use plugins. I did look into it but this was a limitation. Cakewalk by BandLab has become free since they were acquired.

Tascam DP24 is far easier to operate and interface. Used with warranty about $350. But yes, I've done it in Garageband. And simply bouncing tracks between two devices.

I have Tascam 32-2B R2R that I use, had it overhauled a few years ago, and bought all brand new ATR tapes.

Will probably need to overhaul it again at some point in the next year. Currently rack mounting it, and I also have a Dolby DBX400X interface.