Self recording equipment help...

[Hevy T]

For the guys that record demos and bass lines etc... What kind of setup do you use?

Im looking for cheap, just so I can share ideas with the guys during isolation

 

[Reedt2000]

Do you have anything to record on right now or are you starting from scratch? I've got a two-channel interface and Cubase recording software, but you dont NEED that kinda stuff. It depends what you want to do, and how deep down the rabbit hole you wanna go.

Do you want drums, accompaniment, the ability to write parts with virtual instruments? Files that other people can load onto software and layer parts on? Or just the ability to record yourself playing solo?

If you just want to record yourself playing, and aren't super concerned about sound quality, just use a smart phone. Take video or find a free app. You could get a zoom field recorder. They're cheap, get a decent result on their own, and can be used as an audio interface to a computer (pretty sure they come with basic multitrack recording software too).

 

[Hevy T]

Do you have anything to record on right now or are you starting from scratch? I've got a two-channel interface and Cubase recording software, but you dont NEED that kinda stuff. It depends what you want to do, and how deep down the rabbit hole you wanna go.

Do you want drums, accompaniment, the ability to write parts with virtual instruments? Files that other people can load onto software and layer parts on? Or just the ability to record yourself playing solo?

If you just want to record yourself playing, and aren't super concerned about sound quality, just use a smart phone. Take video or find a free app. You could get a zoom field recorder. They're cheap, get a decent result on their own, and can be used as an audio interface to a computer (pretty sure they come with basic multitrack recording software too).

I used to record with a Zoom b3 through the USB port. But I upgraded to the b3n and lost the capability. I dont use an amp at home, just my sadosky pre amp to my Geddy lee pedal to the b3n. So I dont think the cell phone idea will work unless there's an interface to connect to my phone from a 1/4"

 

[Reedt2000]

What software and computer were you recording on? If the computer has a line in, you could use its sound card with a 1/4" to 1/8" adapter. You might have to trim down the signal strength so you down overload the input. Its kinda cheap & dirty but it can work. Just have to select that input on your software and fool with the gain you give it. I guess you got rid of the old pedal with the USB out?

 

[skycruiser]

Since I don't have anything better, I record audio on my phone, copy the m4a file to my computer and mix in Audacity (free, Windows). For sharing ideas, it works. Audacity has some filters to remove noise but I haven't bothered. My work group is doing a little "add your part to this song and pass it on" thing and it has worked fine for that.

 

[CallMeAl]

I have a 2 channel usb mixer, cost me $100. I use free software, works great.

You could look into iRig, I think you can record with that and that's like 40 bucks