I think htere are cheap computer programs u can buy, and I probably need a mike too...but i`m not going for a whole MIDI set like some websites advertise!

What else do i need to get and how do i hook it all together...etc. any help will be appreciated! :p

You could get a small mixer if you want to record multiple instruments at once(hook it all to the mixer and then into the Mic or Line In), or you could just use a mic pre-amp and go straight into the inputs like I do. If you want to make drums, you could find a drum sampler or drum machine software to make drum tracks anywhere from simple to crazy, off the wall beats. And, of course, to mix it all together and get it sounding great, download n-Track if you don't already have it...

-Gabriel-

Thanks for the info gabriel, but does anyone know exactly which program is the best (or easiest) to use? like Cakewalk or blahblah...etc?

It's hard to say which is the best or easiest. I've been using Pro Tools LE with the Digi 001 and I love it. i feel it's pretty easy to use and very powerful. A friend came over with CakeWalk Guitar Tracks on his laptop and he got 6 demo's done in an afternoon. The cakewalk comes with a drum program that seems pretty easy to use. Much easier than a drum machine as it's more visual. Also Cakewalk seems to work pretty well with most systems. The Pro Tools needed to be on a specific intel processor but they do have free version that can be used for 8 tracks only. People on this board like nTrack too. Most programs have demo software to try out. That's what I'd suggest.

Good luck!

Thanks a lot guys!!!

We moved this discussion to the Home Recording Forum. Hopefully this may help.

Thanks,

Hi Camilla,

Assuming you have access to a computer with a "full duplex" soundcard(one that can record and play back music at the same time) and internet access, you can do it almost without cost. 1-you need a microphone, 2-you need whatever instruments you'll use and cords with the appropriate plugs. 3-You can download demo versions of multitrack and editing software for free.

The demos will have some functions disabled, usually the ability to mix down to two stereo tracks, but you can get around this buy re-recording the multitrack mix via your soundcard's two-track "stereo mixer."

Go to your PCs PROGRAMS /ACCESSORIES /ENTERTAINMENT
/VOLUME CONTROL /OPTIONS /RECORDING and select "stereo mixer." Note that when you record into the sound card's input this needs to be set to "Line in."

I have tried demos from several outfits and the ones I have had the best luck with are Multiquence/Gold Wave and Cool Edit. Please note that I don't recommend anyone doing this other than for experimentation. Though it is the manufacturer's problem they feel they need to give out demo versions, if a program fits your needs you should buy it.

For instance, Multiquence only costs about $40 without the goldwave editor. I bought it and used it with the Goldwave editor demo and this is what I used for "Somewhere in Austin." I used a Shure SM 58 mic($100), my Boss drum machine($150), an old electric bass I borrowed from a friend and my old beat-up acoustic Aspen guitar. Check it out by clicking link below. Somewhere in Austin
Good luck and have fun.
Cal

I have just about ebery piece of software except Reason!

Cakewalk is good because I believe it caters to the 1st timer. I recorded most of my album with Cakewalk Pro9. soupbonne.iuma.com to take a listen.

I've recently started using Protools 5.1 and while it is powerful, it is NOT for the faint at heart. Also Protools seems to be a little less stable than Cakewalk.

GM