I'd like to get into recording

[lowendblues]

I currently dont play in a band setting, but I still play my bass quite a bit. I would like to do some simple recording of some bass line ideas, maybe some simple double tracking, but have no idea where to start.

What can I get for my computer to get me started in this direction?

[kraigo]

I'm using a PreSonus FireBox. It's a Firewire unit with two preamp inputs (you can plug a mic cable or a 1/4" cable in those inputs), two line inputs (I have a two channel mic pre that I plug in them) and two S/P-DIF inputs (those are digital inputs - I don't use them) and quite a few outputs - I only use the main outs, but I suppose you could use the other outs and the line inputs for an effects loop.

M-Audio makes a similar unit. I'm positive there are a lot of other choices. I'm not saying that the FireBox is the best, but it has been good to me.

I use Sonar for recording software, but it's expensive and may be overkill for your needs. If you're just "getting your toes wet", check out Reaper - http://www.reaper.fm/download.php. You can try before you buy and it's inexpensive if you decide to buy.

I love Sonar because I use a lot of MIDI and loops to get things done. I've used it for a long time so I'm familiar with working with it and it comes with very nice plug-ins, both software synthesizers and processing. I've never used Reaper so I'm going by word of mouth. That word of mouth is very strong.

Good luck.

KO

[Barkless Dog]

Apple,s Garage Band is dumb as dirt to use and get great results.

That & a M audio interface you can be cutting tracks in minutes.

[hbarcat]

I've used this for awhile and really like the results. In fact, I have two of them.

E-MU 1212M PCI card and daughter card. It comes with a ton of recording/editing software and other useful stuff like plug ins and processors.


http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/1212Mv2



Other suggestions from above posts are all good options.