Another late post.

But I still record things, practices, lessons etc. with a tape recorder.

"You can always record over S***."--What Movie?

Try this to help. Everyone mentioned lower volume becuase you are not micing each individual amp, drum etc. and you are not going through a mixer etc.

But this helped us--we had 2 gtrs,1 bass, drum and singer.

Put the tape recorder in back of your band or yourself if you record your practices,lessons, ideas. The " sound" will not be directed exactly at the microphone. Also try a pillow to cover the Mic or buy a cheapie to plug in or an adapter that allows the 1/4 inch to fit into the small plug on the recorer for regular mics.

As you know it ain't great quality but as long as you date your tapes you can get a good perspective on where you are now compared to 6 months ago.