Topic: Computer Audio Interfaces..??? Want to record the band..

[Cactus]

hey now,

ive been pondering a bit about recording with my new band and this seems to be the cheapest route. i was looking for any suggestions as far as brand and also studio software that people have had luck with. im looking at the m-audio firewire 410 that includes the software..we're a 5 piece (2 guit ,1 bass, 2 drums)and i wanted to track everyone at once if this is possible..thanks in advance

[peterbilt]

I wouldn't suggest the 410 for this. You can only use either the xlr ins(with the pre-amps) OR the 1/4" ins on the back of the unit with the SPDIF in simulataneously. So unless you are running some sort of an A/D into the 410, it's pretty much a 2 track firewire interface. I was saddened by this as well but for what i picked mine up for I'm going to keep it anyway.

You may want to look into the Presonus Firepod, or the Tascam FW 1804. They do cost a bit more than the 410 but you would be able to run all 5 channels that you want at the same time, and both are firewire devices.

[THE NIZ BIAAAAACH!]

I just bought a Presonus Firebox you can simultaneously record six inputs midi, two mics, two 1\4 analog inputs, and a spidif input. It comes with cubase nuendo mulitrack that is a standard in computer based multi track recording and is worth as much as the unit!  At only $299 I'm super stoked with tis unit sofar.

[Cactus]

hey now,

seems like the budget is keeping me in the 300 range so i picked up the presonus firebox from musicians friend. the unit had alot of good reviews and they also threw in a pair of headphones and cubase le.? as far as drums i think im going to buy a seperate analog mixer and just run 2 channels (l&r) out of that into the firebox. i wont be able to record everyone at once but will def. give me the experience and time to save for the higher end stuff..only other option is a digital mixer and run the spdif out of that but again your talking 650 bucks min

thanks.

[THE NIZ BIAAAAACH!]

good luck man