USB Mixer Questions

[wtg203]

Hey there,
Lately I've been looking into purchasing an analog mixer (with a USB output) to record to a PC. I would be wanting to record 2 guitars, bass, a drumset, and possibly vocals simultaneously. I'm looking to spend somewhere under $200. I've been looking around online at some Alesis and Behringer mixers that look like they'd be able to do what I want, and they're right in my price range. Does anyone have any experience with these products, or have any other reccomendations?

One question I have is if the USB interface will record to a PC as ONE channel. For example, lets say I have 3 instruments going into the mixer, and the mixer to my PC. When I hit record, will my PC record one track, or 3? And will that even make a difference, seeing as how I can already control all my levels and effects from the mixer? Thanks.

 

[Snarf]

I depends on the drivers of the mixer and the capabilities of your software. If you can arm multiple tracks at once in the software, you should be able to record many tracks simultaneously.

BUT . . .

That said, a USB mixer will NOT cut it. It's too slow. You need Firewire or better (ie PCI). Alesis's Multimix series is very good, you can get 4 mic channels plus 2 stereo line ins for $300. You should also have plenty of RAM and CPU cycles and hard drive space on your PC to spare.

Don't get Behringer. The preamps in those things are beyond terrible. It's a crime that they actually sell those things for money.

 

[geoffkhan]

Yes, definitely check out Alesis's Multimix.

It depends on what you will be doing, but I'd advise to go Firewire rather than USB. Again, depends on the scale of the projects you plan to do.