16 track now or computer later?

i have no computer, 11yrs w/ mpc2k classic, and kerzweil k2000. i am in serious need of recording means. would i be better of w/ a comp. or a track recorder? i would like to purchase an ill comp.($$$$) but unshure of programs and capatibility, i've been looking into the roland vs 1680 "affordable" but still unshure of component... if worth it i'm willing to save and wait for the super comp. or buy now and start rec tonight, track recorder steez? any veteran recommendations? "lakers"

stay away from the hardware recorders/all-in-one boxes......

they sound terrible

Stay away from all computer/software recorders too. They all sound $h*tty

It's all on what you want. Audio wise you can't really tell the difference between the two. The platform to use is a matter of personal preference. I've done $h*t on my 1680 that has had TWO producers who use PRO-TOOLS in Miami asking about how I got the quality of the audio so crisp. In my opinion and to my experience the software route is easier. I stick to hardware though. Once again, it's a matter of preference.

RonDu wrote:I've done $h*t on my 1680 that has had TWO producers who use PRO-TOOLS in Miami asking about how I got the quality of the audio so crisp.

that means nothing....

absolutely nothing

what hardware were they using? a mbox? 002?

Personally I'd go the computer/software route. It gives you a choice of programs and hardware that might suit your methods. You can get a whole bunch of free plugins (synths,effects) that you can try out.

I also find editing on a computer easier than on a hardware box.
The problem with a lot of dedicated all-in-one solutions is that they cut corners in order to fit everything in. Mic pres,converters, effects all have to fit in one unit and there's only so much that they can squeeze in without compromising. That's not to say that you can't get good results on them but personally, I find it harder to do on a hardware recorder than on a computer.

I'm definately a Logic/Pro Tools guy, but if I had to go hardware, I'd get a Roland 2480.  A few writers I've worked with have tracked records on it and I've tracked a few beats on one.  I was quite impressed, but I think it's because you can plug an external monitor and mouse, so it's more like a computer and software than some of the other hardware units.  

Overall, I still say go with a reasonbly fast Mac with Logic Pro.  You can get an educational version of Logic for $500 if you want and it comes with all the plugs you need to started.  A used dual processor G4 will get you decent performance but I'd go for something with at least a G5 in it.  Better yet a new Intel machine.  As far as interfaces go, if you go with anything from RME you're good, and the M-audio 1814 doesn't sound bad for the price.  Just make sure it has enough ins and outs for your gear.

whatever you decide to use, just stay away from compression (data). you want to record your music in a raw uncompressed format. otherwise, no matter what you use, your recordings won't sound as good as they should. I hate recording on a computer because of personal reasons...( i lost like 43 or 44 beats because my comp crashed). here's a nifty little guide if you wanna look into MTR's http://www.tweakheadz.com/multi_track_recorders.htm ,best of luck to you no matter which route you choose.

I would recommend a decent PC or a MAC with a High end audio interface i.e. protools, motu, creamware or RME. Stay away from the cheaper audio interfaces if you want the best quality.

The bottom line is everyone does things their way & you will get loads of different opinions. Do a little research on the most commonly used/recommended methods then choose one within your budget & the system you think will work the best with you.


Good luck.

jazzbee wrote: Stay away from the cheaper audio interfaces if you want the best quality.

The bottom line is everyone does things their way & you will get loads of different opinions. Do a little research on the most commonly used/recommended methods then choose one within your budget & the system you think will work the best with you.


Good luck.

agree

i warmly recommed Mac ... man every recording software you can get to mac is much better(because from the beginning of the corporation macs have been the machines of audio-pros) and believe me when i say that mac is much better recording computer than pc. i just got my macbook... believe me.

but thats just my opinnion