Topic: New Rig Question

[NslMatt]

Hey everyone... I am wanting to put my first rig together and I just want something basic and not too expensive, as I am a college student and funds are limited. Anyway, I kinda need to know what is all needed for a basic rig, and what some of it does. I am clueless when it comes to some of this stuff since I am just starting out. So far I know you need mics, a stand, something to record with (DAT, MD whatnot), phantom power... what else is the kind of stuff I need and any suggestions? If anyone can help me out with a list of a full basic rig that would be cheap, I'd appreciate it. Thanks much! You can PM me the list or post it here.

[Brian Skalinder]

Have you checked ou the Where To Begin section's threads?

Start Here
Getting Started
I have a budget of...

Start Here and Getting Started will introduce you to the basics required, while the "I have a budget..." thread outlines the capabilities and costs of various gear.  Once you have a baseline of info, consider posting some more specific questions - it'll be easier for others to provide useful feedback rather than tossing any and all information out in the hope something will stick.

[NslMatt]

Ok, so I have my laptop... essentially, if I bought AKG C1000S mics and a stand, I could record a show? Does anyone know how long the battery life is for the AKG C1000s? I'd appreciate any help on this... thanks everyone.

[Krispy D]

even with your lappy you're gonna want some kind of pre.  look into a stock ua 5 (150-200 bucks)  it will give you phantom power (throw out those damn 9volts) and usb in to you machine.  good luck.

kris

[NslMatt]

A pre? Is that for gain?

[Krispy D]

yeah a preamp, something to boost the gain a little (to line level) and color the sound.

[TNJazz]

Just my .02 mind you, but I'd forget about the C1000's.  For about the same price (or a little more, maybe?) you can pick up a pair of Oktavas.  Not only do they sound better, but you'll have the option of interchangeable caps down the road if you get really serious about taping and want to make your rig more versatile without upgrading everything.

You can get a pair of real Oktavas for about $200-250 (NOT THE ONES THEY SELL AT BANJO MART)
Then pick up a UA-5 ($150 or so) and a battery for it ($35-40 or so).

So for under $500 with a laptop, you've got a *very* nice rig for starting off.
Dirk

[Kyle]

I am not sure about the condition (or your budget), but something like this is a great starting point. Interchangable capsules, nice sound, and the ability to be modded - I have heard many good recordings with these.

http://cgi.ebay.com/Microphone-AKG-C460B-with-CK61-ULS-Capsule_W0QQitemZ7356430346QQcategoryZ41466QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

edit: just realized this is in Australia - but you get the idea.

[Krispy D]

dirk's right brotha man!!

I wasn't gonna open the mic can of worms but there are many other mics in the same price range that'll sound much better imho.  oktava's ( my choice), sp c4's many people around here's choice.  It's not that the akgs sound bad but it seems that most people outgrow them pretty fast.  for the same amount of money you can get something you'll still want around (prob.     )in a few years.

by the way, Dirk, the mk 012's I got from you ROCK with the dorsey mod!!!  I feel like I've put together the ultimate budget rig!!!

thanks again