Cheapest most simple quality recording

[Super_Mario_Bass]

Hi again,

I'm looking to record some simple lo-fi, hippy, warm, bassy noodlings.

I also want to record some percussion.

is there a versatile mic that i can get cheaply to do all this. And a computer program? Also how do i plug a mic ito the computer? are USB mics of quality sound?

P.s I tried audacity but it confused me a bit.

any thoughts?

thanks =)

Edit

[url="http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Boss-Micro-BR-Palmtop-4-track-Digital-Recorder-NEW_W0QQitemZ150171029644QQihZ005QQcategoryZ15199QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem#ebayphotohostng"]http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Boss-Micro-BR-Palmto...bayphotohosting[/url]

as you see something like this, the mumbo jumbo doesnt mean that much to me, but does anyone know if this kinda thing lets you record, then overdub, and overdub again. whilst listening to what you have previosuly recorded?

Seems like the best deal for the price

Edited October 17, 2007 by Super_Mario_Bass

[bnt]

Audacity is OK if you get a handle on Tracks etc. - it tends to create new tracks every time, but you have lots of editing possibilities.

As for a standalone recorder, one I thought of is the [url="http://www.samsontech.com/products/productpage.cfm?prodID=1901&brandID=4"]Zoom H4[/url]. It can do 4-track recording on board, with basic FX (incl amp models), mixdown and overdubbing, and you can transfer tracks to computer to finish them. Oh, and they include another program (Cubase LE) to try.

Edited October 17, 2007 by bnt

[The Burpster]

The Br wont let you overdub ( if I undertand what you mean by that). You can record more complete tracks on top.....
I record drum tracks and then my bass parts on mine and then convert them to MP3.

But sample and put in better played parts ( which is what I think you mean ) then you want a programme like Garage Band or similar.

It all gets rather complicated then, BUT if you get the hang of it the sky they say is your limit.

But for simple recording the Br is excellent, I love mine...

[gypsymoth]

a shure 57/58 mic is about as versatile & durable as you can get. a clone is likely cheaper, but they aren't pticey to start with.

[OldGit]

[quote name='The Burpster' post='75893' date='Oct 18 2007, 08:47 AM']you want a programme like Garage Band or similar.[/quote]

Grrrrrrrrrrr I don't suppose they've release Garage Band for the masses have they? or is it still just Mac?

[cheddatom]

You need a mic (sm57 or copy), and a pre-amp (or maybe a usb mic). The pre-amp can plug into your PC's line in. As far as software, I tend to recommend cubase, but then, I get told off for recommending you steal it.

[dr.funk]

Computer Music has a special on recording bands with just a mic or two. I think it also has some info on micing bass and guitar.

[elros]

[quote name='bnt' post='75807' date='Oct 17 2007, 11:24 PM']As for a standalone recorder, one I thought of is the [url="http://www.samsontech.com/products/productpage.cfm?prodID=1901&brandID=4"]Zoom H4[/url]. It can do 4-track recording on board, with basic FX (incl amp models), mixdown and overdubbing, and you can transfer tracks to computer to finish them. Oh, and they include another program (Cubase LE) to try.[/quote]

I would recommend the Zoom H4. I have one myself which I have used a lot already, it is very easy to get things done with minimal stuff. I plug my bass directly in, or record the drums with the built-in stereo microphone, and although I can do a decent mix inside the H4 I usually transfer the lot to the computer and mix it in Cubase. Works like a charm. Cheap too.
Also I've recorded entire concerts directly to mp3, sounds great!