what recording program to use?

SandmaN211 · #1 07-02-2007, 08:13 AM

whats a good recording program to use which lets you add backing track or mp3 to your recordings (if you can)
i was planning to record using my amp plugged into the computer and later adding a backing track to it.
im am completely NEW to this and hav never recorded anything in my life

newbieguitarmaker · #2 07-02-2007, 08:23 AM

I'm pretty sure any recording program lets you upload tracks. I use Cubase SE but I believe most people use pro tools or the more expensive Cubase's. Also, you can plug your amp up to the computer(usb I'm guessing) or you can use a Shure Sm-57 mic, that picks up your amp, plugged into a device that takes xlr inputs then usb's to your computer. Like a Lexicon Omega is a good input device.

SandmaN211 · #3 07-03-2007, 08:05 AM

usb? narh its pluged into the mirc socket
is that program easy to use?

rbjammin · #4 07-03-2007, 08:37 AM

I would recommend trying Reaper. It is easy to use, a very small file, runs incredibly efficient, stable, updated often, has a lot of excellent effects and has an amazing user forum. Oh, and it is free for the first 30-days! After that, it has a pop-up screen, but everything still works. A non-commercial license only costs $40 (USD). I have been using Reaper for a while now, and it is worth well above what they are charging.

I would not recommend plugging your amp into your computer's mic socket unless the amp is designed for that type of setup. You may want to try plugging your guitar into your computer's line-in socket and using some of the Reaper effects (also known as "plugins").

markg5150 · #5 07-03-2007, 09:08 AM

Audacity is a good place to start - simple and free.

rbjammin · #6 07-03-2007, 01:32 PM

Audacity is ok, but it cannot use plugins in real-time.

SandmaN211 · #7 07-04-2007, 07:21 AM

thanks guys, i have NO IDEA when it comes to recording, i'll try out these programs and see how it goes

CityofBlindingLights · #8 07-04-2007, 07:14 PM

Pro Tools, all the way. Or, if you're on a budget, I know Mac programs that are good for recording, but not so sure about Windows programs. Used Cubase once and wasn't pleased with the interface and the recorded sound (via USB: I have no audio input on my PC) wasn't very good.

Salamander In The Sun · #9 07-04-2007, 08:13 PM

I use an old ghetto blaster with a condenser mic.

David McCarroll · #10 07-04-2007, 08:36 PM

I'm not 100% sure that ProTools will import an MP3 without some kind of add on software - I DO know that the MP3 export facility is something Digidesign charges you a little more for.

ProTools is great, bit of a learning curve, but it is the industry standard, so what you learn will hold you in stead for your whole recording career! There used to be a thing called ProTools Free which you could download from the Digidesign website, but it would be getting awfully long in the tooth by now.

Oh, yeah, and you'd best put down the backing track FIRST and play to it, otherwise you'll find you can NEVER sync up the timing!

yoyo1299 · #11 07-05-2007, 10:44 AM

if you have money - nuendo

RGR570 · #12 07-05-2007, 11:01 AM

Adobe Audition is a very easy program to use, very user friendly.

guitarsalad14 · #13 07-06-2007, 12:33 AM

I use GarageBand, it's a nice program.

CityofBlindingLights · #14 07-06-2007, 05:05 AM

I use Garageband (Apple), it's really good, especially for stuff that you want to record quickly or if you're on a budget (but DEFINITELY not a professional app). Logic Express and Logic Pro are both nicer, Logic Pro being the highest-end Apple-manufactured product.

Pro Tools is great, but only if you need that much money.

Nueno, I've never used it, but yoyo seems to be set on it.

I say give them all a try before making a decision.