Need help for computer recording gear.

Hi guys,

I'm looking to upgrade my gear to get a better sound when recording to my computer. It's not really hard to upgrade since at the moment, I'm hooked up directly from my Effect pad to my sound card. That's right, directly into the microphone jack. I know, ain't the safest thing for my gear but hey, I needed to start somewhere.

At the moment I have a zoom 505 Guitar pad. I know I can't expect much since this little thing generates a lot of noise if you don't set it up right. I also have a Yamaha MT4X four track recorder. Again, another thing that generates a lot of noise.

I've stopped using my yamaha 4 track and started mixing tracks on the computer. I must say It's a lot better on the computer.

As for my amp, I got a Roland DAC-15XD, small but it does give me an incredible sound.

I must confess, I don't know a lot about gear. Right now it's quite simple. From the guitar into the pad and right in the computer.

What gear do you guys have to record on the computer?

Please, if you do record on the computer, let me know which model of gear you have. If you use a pod, which model? are satisfied?

I know some of you guys work in guitar shops, what do you most often sell?

Thanks

First of all, I would recommend some sort of extension cord that will run from the mic jack of your sound card (that is, a male to female 1/4" patch cord) to save the input socket on your sound card. This'll also make it much more convenient for you, since the plug will run out to the front of the computer.

I would recommend at least trying to record with a microphone - you might be surprised at the quality. I would imagine that this would also be better for your sound card...i dunno.

What program do you use for mixing? I'm currently using a demo version of Acid Pro 2.0, which is pretty good, except it limits me to 8 tracks.

Thanks for the extension advice, never taught about it and it does bug me alot. So taht's a problem resolved.

Do you have recommendations for microphones?

For mixing I use Cool edit Pro 2.0

I don't know if there's a limit, never reached it.

Old advice here. Laugh at my mistakes, there's some good stuff..which I'll try..at some time.



Computer Recording

I use Cubasis vst 3.0 on the PC. I have a Boss GT3 for effects and a Peavey Classic 30 amp. For recording guitar I always use a mic. Sure you have shut up the wife and kids so they don't feature on the track, but it's the best way to get a big, live sound. My mic was pretty cheap. It's a Phonic UM-97 and cost about £30. It's good for miking the amp and for acoustic. Not so hot on the vocals though, or maybe that's just my voice......