I'm new to recording. Lately I have become very interested in setting up a mic during practice so that I can listen back and identify parts which I can use for tracks. (Because after a 1hr+ session of practice, it's difficult to remember all the tasty things which have been played ).

This Blue Snowball really impresses me. It looks like a nice quick recording solution without breaking the bank.

My question is: In addition to the Blue Snowball, what sorts of equipment might I need to really get off the ground and start recording? I have a PC with Windows Vista - I suppose I'll be needing some kind of software, right?

Well, first off you'll need a mac...

Just kidding, I really don't know. Depending on how much money you want to drop on software, you could look into Pro Tools. I know several guitar players who use it on their PCs.

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There are many choices in software - - These days I'm using Ableton Live because of it's arrangement AND session view. It's a powerful program with great ReWire support.

Some of the more popular choices seem to be :

Avid/Pro Tools
Logic Pro
Digital Performer
Cubase
Cakewalk/Sonar
PreSonus/Studio One
N-Track
Reaper (this is a very good program!)
Garageband
Audacity (free and good for learning with)

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Thanks texas & Mike. I'm looking for something not too expensive, but nice quality on the dollar. (Perhaps around half the cost of Pro Tools 9 as that's a bit out of my league.) I will definitely be giving Audacity a try, though.

I am also curious with regards to mixers as I don't know a lot about them. Would I have to get one if I were interested in laying down guitar and vocals separately? Any general info w/ regards to mixers?

It sounds like the mic and a software program are about all I need to get off the ground, though!

I'm no expert, but I did go to a GC seminar on Garage Band last weekend. (And I once slept in a Holiday Inn). With GB you can build a song track by track, adding as you go. You can then mix down through the software. Each track is like a slider on a mixing board. You have individual track control of EQ, effects, mute etc. Also you can automate the various changes you want to do during the mix. So, no, you don't need a physical mixing board. Which I'll miss. The software pretty much eliminates all the fun stuff like wax pencils and razor blades.

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Wow. Now I need a Mac

I used a 1/4" adapter for a little while with garageband. Your right, the quality is there and at a very low cost. I upgraded my audio interface in order to get my other stuff communicating at one centralized location (Mics, Keyboard, drum set and studio monitors (going out)).

BTW the sound quality and playing on your vid were very good.

Years ago when I wanted to start recording I bought Cakewalk for my pc. I had nothing but problems getting my guitar to be recognized. It became such a hassle I just stopped. Later I got a Mac because my pc was done and the Mac was clearance. I was absolutely amazed with how simple it was to get off the ground recording in GarageB.

I didn't have to install any drivers, and the computer recognized my input immediately (without any tweaking at all). It really allows you to focus on what you want to, and that's playing. Looking back now, I wish I got a Mac as soon as GB was first released. Keep in mind this is all my own opinion, but I'm totally sold on Mac's. I use my PC for Microsoft Office, and my Mac for everything else.

thanks it's the way i'm going right now with recording my non band material...

Thanks for all the replies, looks like I've got some reading to do!

Rik

You're right actually, I was being a bit harsh - for what it is and costs, it does the job.

Rik

get a mustang if you want an amp,get an audix i5 mic,the fast track pro is a great little interface.The mustang comes with all the software you will ever need FOR FREE!!!!! Thats what I use.

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Really, thx again for all the replies - I now have about a dozen browser tabs to search thru!

Never thought about Garage Band. Guess I kinda thought it was a bit 'for the kids', if you know what I mean but I'm going to hook it up now and see if it does the job. The search continues...

Rik