What should I get? Computer Software help

[swatguitar85]

I know that just posted about digital recorders, but I'm trying to decide if I should get one of those or software for my computer. I have a Dell Inspiron 5150, with 40 GB, 512 MB, 3.06 GHz and am running XP Professional. So my question is what would be good software to work with and would you recommend software over a digital recorder or no? If I get software I would also have to buy a usb interface. I'm looking to try not to spend more than $500 if possible. Thanks for any help.

[swatguitar85]

I know that somebody has some advice.......I was looking at a Tascam MIDI/Audio USB interface and it comes with Gigastudio...is that any good or no?

[Soup Kitchen Studios]

Gigastudio is awesome. It is a soft-sampler. If you want to do a lot of work with samples, I would consider upgrading your RAM to a gig and get a firewire hard drive.

You will still need some software to record digital audio. Sonar or Cubase is probably your best best.

[swatguitar85]

Thanks Dave. At the moment I just want something so I can do some basic recording mainly guitar stuff, so I don't know if Sonar or Cubase would be a bit much for what I'm trying to do and a bit more than my wallet wants to spend. How is the less expensive software like Home Studio and Mackie's new program Traktion?

[Devo]

theres a free version of cubase (cubasis)... and free/cheap protools (i think)... then theres cool edit pro which is cheapish .... of course you can get anything for free depending on how you are inclined

should have more than enough to do whatever home recording stuff you want with any of those...

would be nice to have a USB2 line in though... who makes good cheap ones of those??? i dont need fifty inputs... one would be good enough...

steve

[darren wilson]

Cubasis isn't free... it's an old version that often gets bundled with various audio hardware. The new entry-level Cubase SE Hybrid is 48 audio tracks and unlimited MIDI, for US$149. Pretty good deal.

[swatguitar85]

I found a MIDI and Audio/USB Interface made by Tascam for $200 at ***************. The model is US-122. It says that it comes with Cubasis and Gigastudio. I'll check out Cubase SE Hybrid though. Thanks

[Devo]

sorry bout that...

cheers for pointing out SE hybrid though... looks good

Steve