Multitrack Recorders
Hard disk recorders are the way to go
if you don't want to have a computer as the heart of
your studio. Even with the right computer you'll
eventually face certain problems so if figuring them
out isn't your bag go with a hard disk recorder.
Getting started on one of these is easy, but they do
go fairly deep with what you can do as far as editing
and effects. It's really a computer in itself.
These are all-in-one recorders so no need to worry about recording software or hardware interface, just maybe some external speakers. Of coarse as time goes on you can add more external stuff like effect processors, pre-amps etc although some of these digital recorders have a good array of those things built right in and some are pretty decent quality. Most of the well known companies have very inexpensive models starting in the few hundred dollar range and go up to a few thousand.
Benefits of using a digital multitrack music recorder over a computer system:
- All-in-one - no need to worry about which software program to use or having enough hard drives. If you do need more room you can always dump what you have on the drive to an exterior drive via the USB connection.
- Expanbable - you can always add to this portable studio with monitors, and outboard effects proccessors, although they come with enough to satisfy most people's needs, some even have a built in vocal pitch corrector. Get a good mic and you're good to go.
- Very stable - no need to worry about computer stability or operating system compatability issues.
- Portable -unplug it and take it anywhere for your next recording session.
These stand-alone recorders are slightly more expensive than buying a computer interface to use with a software recording program on your computer. If you decide to go with one of these it's important to know that if you're recording for a professional sounding CD you should spend more than a few hundred bucks since the cheaper ones have poor quality effects and EQ's built into them, although fine for demo recording.
Museum Piece:
Here are the most popular, best selling Multi Track Digital Recorders:
Fostex - MR Series (entry level under $400)
Tascam - 2488 Series (under $1000)
Boss - BR Series
Alesis - Multimix