computer recording - what interface?

[beaner]

Anyone have a recommendation on an interface unit for getting audio into a computer? Specifically, I would like to mike my amp as well as have the ability to direct plug in the guitar or keyboard. I plan on using the Garageband software on the Mac, so something compatible would be good.

I was looking at the Line 6 unit, but I can't tell whether you have to use their software or whether I'll be able to use Garageband in addition to their stuff.

Thanks
Dave

[~K~]

Re: computer recording - what interface?

Which line6 piece you looking at? I have the toneport into Cakewalk Guitar Tracks and it works fine

[Newc]

Re: computer recording - what interface?

I just run a dual RCA to 1/8" stereo jack from my recorder/mixer Master Out to my computer's soundcard Line Input. Works for me, however I can't do true multitracking that way (read: get each track into the computer at the same time on separate tracks).
I CAN record each track individually and add separate tracks though, but you can't run 4 living players to 4 separte tracks at the same time that way.

If it's just you and a drum machine or drum samples, I'd save a few hunnert bucks and stick with the soundcard, unless you just want the multi-input device.

[beaner]

Re: computer recording - what interface?

I was looking at the toneport UX1. That's good to know it works with something other than it's own software. Gotta look into that some more, I guess it's just a simple A/D box if I use it with a different program?

Now I'm going to further show my ignorance. Going straight to the audio in port sounds good if I can do it. However, I was going to get a Shure SM57 to mic the amp. Doesn't that have one of those funky XLR connectors on it? Can a mic go straight to the audio in port (with an adaptor I suppose) or do I need something like the toneport with a mic preamp? I'm not looking to spend a bundle, and of course money is an object, but a couple hundred bucks for toys isn't a biggie (hey it's Xmas!).

[~K~]

Re: computer recording - what interface?

[ QUOTE ]
I guess it's just a simple A/D box if I use it with a different program?



[/ QUOTE ]


Tone port will take the place of your soundcard to allow your processor to not be taxed and cause latency issues. The tone port has amp sims guitar and bass and tube sims for vocals... you could easily mic your amp with it although there is no need to...

With that said you should check and see if your pc makes the min requirements.. it needs a min of 512meg of ram

[Newc]

Re: computer recording - what interface?

If you're running into the Line In of your soundcard, it's best to run your cabinet mic through a mixer if you have one, but if you don't have a mixer, then the Tone Port sounds like the better way to go.

[Bert]

Re: computer recording - what interface?

I bought an Edirol UA-25 to get audio into my laptop via USB port... works pretty nicely, the preamp is very transparent and has phantom power. I can bring my laptop to a jam, plug in a couple of room mics, and capture the entire thing without any hassle...

[Venomboy]

Re: computer recording - what interface?

I'm looking into the Presonus Firepod. Firewire interface. I've done a lot of research and it gets great reviews. The M-Audio stuff typically gets mixed reviews.