It's gonna take me awhile to figure out all this, but it does sound promising. What exactly does a direct box do? I looked them up but am still a little hazy on exactly how they work and what they do. I experimented with changing mics in the recording process and it's true, the AT 4033 really couldn't handle the level of the guitar. I guess it is the diaphragm being too sensitive. My brother is picking up the Shure Mic Drum Kit so I will definitely try the sm57 for micing my amp, I have heard nothing but good things about the sm57's so I am shure (pardon the pun) that they will help. I know my resources are limited but I want to mimic the sound and clarity the Mark Tremonti and Mike Einziger achieve (I know they are not the favourites on this sight) but then again I am not a shredder or heavy into leads, really I am looking for a solid backround guitar sound. I know its possible, it's something I have to do. Anyways if there are any more suggestions I am all ears, so far the help has been wicked awesome.