about to build a computer for recording

[texshred777]

Well, Im about to have a friend of mine build me a computer for recording. I'm going to actually put in the sound cards made for recording/mixing that also have mic preamps and inputs as well as outputs and whatnot. Im not exactly sure where to start. I also need really good software for making all backing tracks. By the way, im experienced in composition, so ill be using finale for composing a lot of backround stuff, if that helps. Any rec for the actual cards and software i should use or package deals easily findable in say a musicians friend catalogue. Im not sure id use other drum loops, as i have a good compositional skill level and the ability to write my own complete drum parts...but hey if discrete drums or acid pro or soundforge work well for the verse parts or choruses great.

[Polaris20]

I'd say:

Intel mobo with 845 chipset
DDR RAM, as much as you can afford
2 7200 rpm hard drives
Aardvark Direct Pro or M Audio Omni Studio
LCD monitor (CRT's suck)
1.8A P4 or higher CPU
Cubase SX
Acid 4.0 (when it comes out)
Sound Forge 6.0

[texshred777]

Thanks, I've heard tons of stuff about pro tools, what do you say about the whole digi-001 set they have? I'm hearing a lot of talk about either cakewalk sonar, cubase and pro tools. What's the pro's/con's of the three? If that doesnt sound too ignorant..lol.

[Polaris20]

Originally Posted by texshred777

Thanks, I've heard tons of stuff about pro tools, what do you say about the whole digi-001 set they have? I'm hearing a lot of talk about either cakewalk sonar, cubase and pro tools. What's the pro's/con's of the three? If that doesnt sound too ignorant..lol.

Well, with the Digi 001 you're getting compatibility with studios, but as a system for soley home use, it's far behind Sonar or Cubase SX.

IMHO, with PTLE you're paying for the name and compatibility, which may or may not be important.