Noob questions about recording plz help

[mandokiddo]

Hey guys,
I'm quite a noob at recording who is looking into upgrading my current setup but I thought I should get some advice to hopefully avoid any wastage of unnecessary funds.

Mainly I'm interested in recording full bands and jam sessions in my basement so I was looking into having multiple inputs to record with so I can mic multiple instruments simultaneously. Also I would be recording my buddy on acoustic and vox and my upright and possibly more instuments as they come along.

Now for the questions

I'm about to get a new macbook for school which I'm stoked about. I know it already comes with Garageband software and my first question is whether or not I should invest in getting Logic as well.

Secondly I've somewhat settled on purchasing a cheaper audio interface to hook up to my laptop. I've been looking at the Tascam US-1800 or the US-1641. I was hoping to get some opinions on which one would be the best choice seeing as I can't tell what the bloody difference is. Also I was assuming they are both compatible with garageband/logic. Somebody please correct me if I'm wrong.

I think that about covers the majority of my questions, feel free to point out any blunders/serious errors in judgement and make suggestions.

Thanks\

 

[GrowlerBox]

They look pretty similar to me, too -- there may be some differences in the way the mic and line inputs are divvied up. Both seem to come with Cubase, which is a pretty serviceable DAW. Both interfaces will be compatible with G'band/Logic. Garageband is not bad, and will give you a good introduction to the process. Logic is definitely a big step up if and when you get there, and Garageband tracks/projects can be opened up in Logic. Whether the investment is worth it depends on the final goal -- Garageband is more than adequate for demos and the like, Logic is pro-grade, allows very deep sound editing, huge array of plug ins, etc, etc.

 

[Low5]

I have a macbook pro with logic pro. That may make me biased. I love it, no complaints other than it a bit pricier than other options. I have a m-audio profire610 which has 6 inputs 2 of which are xlr. I also have a presonus firestudio project which has 10 inputs 8 of which are xlr. The reason I mention that is with mac you can create an aggregate sound device and use different manufacture audio interfaces together. Now I have 16 inputs. My opinion is firewire is a must versus usb. Logic is also available in Logic Express for a fraction of the money and still will be way more application than most DIY recording will ever need. Hope this was helpful.