What do I need for home recording studio?

Last year, I got a Lexicon Lambda so I could record some riffs I came up with, but now, I'm looking to actually record some songs and create a CD. I'm getting a condenser mic and possibly Logic Studio (I have no problem with GarageBand but it would be nice to have something better). I'm going to mic the amps to record the instruments. What else do I need to get and should I get a mixer or a multitrack recorder (or is there a difference)?

Brandon this all depends on what you want to spend, however it is very reasonable no matter how you look at it when you consider the cost of a studio for a day.

1. A decent computer with plenty of ram and a decent soundcard.(Laptops are more portable and open up recording possibilities) prices vary

2.Software such as Cubase/cakewalk or abelton live are best for recording and multi tracking live instruments.You will also need a program such as wavelab or soundforge to do your final mix.pro studios tend to use pro tolls for final mixes producing etc...this is costly

3. Mixer- you will need a good mixer either firewire or 2.0 usb. If you intend to record a full live drum kit remember that this will use 7 channels on any mixer so you will need at least a 16 channel mixer.
An alternative is an external soundcard however it will not have the same amount of inputs requiring you to record the different parts in takes( as in you wont be able to record a full live band at once and have the same control you would with the mixer16 channels)(expect to pay anything from 250 up for this)

4.A midi keyboard is also of great use to write, compose and do live automation on tracks.(prices vary)

5. Good monitors to hear in playback and produce.(expect to pay at least 300 bucks for an ok set)

6. Mics check out these guys , good mics incredible prices

http://www.red5audio.com/

7. An assotment of leads and cables( mainly spare xlr and leads for amped instruments)

8. A good knowledge of production compressors,gates etc... practice your production to get the most out of your equipement.

9.A sound understanding of MIDI.

Time patience and have fun doing so, I may be able to help you out with software and some other things to get you up and going so feel free to mail me.

This list is based on a simple but effective set up from music to laptop and final production.

The sound proofing and control issues are a whole other topic but sometimes you can be lucky to have a good foundation to work with.

Goodluck n have fun.

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