Topic: New Computer Taper

[NslMatt]

I am just starting out and trying to get my legs under me in the taping world. Right now I am wanting to just start out with my laptop and this mic that I have that plugs into the mic plug on the computer to tape local bar shows. I have Soundforge 7.0. Does anyone think this is a good idea and does anyone have any tips on other programs I might need? I'd appreciate any help.

[Fatah Ruark (aka MIKE B)]

What kind of mics are you using?

I would add a pre-amp and A>D convertor. Something with USB output would be nice for you, unless you wanted to also buy a nice soundcard with digi-in.

The Edirol UA5 is a nice entry level pre-amp and A>D with USB. I don't think they are made anymore, but you can find them in the Yard Sale and also eBay.

[Chanher]

look on ebay for a ua-5

[NslMatt]

What kind of mics are you using?

I would add a pre-amp and A>D convertor. Something with USB output would be nice for you, unless you wanted to also buy a nice soundcard with digi-in.

The Edirol UA5 is a nice entry level pre-amp and A>D with USB. I don't think they are made anymore, but you can find them in the Yard Sale and also eBay.

What do all those do? and approximately how much do they cost? I am using a really poor mic that I found lying around the house right now. It records my voice great lol, but I have never tried to record live with it before.

[BobW]

You may like CDWave, a shareware program that does CD track splits better than anything that I've used.
Splits on CD Sector boundries

Also FLAC FrontEnd and MKWAct!  for SHN and FLAC management.

Something like Nero to burn CDs with...

Those programs will let you D/L and experiment with recordings from the archive.

Mics, pre-amps, and A/Ds can really add expense to recording.
There are very decent low-end options, ask around, and have patience.
It's all about what type of sound you like.
You'll get a rig that you're happy with together in time.
Heaven knows I'm still working on it     

Good luck and enjoy !