This very odd.

why is it, that when I plug my guitar and effect pedals directly into my computer to record without an amp I can pretty much capture the sound I want, but when I go to play with an AMP it sounds completely different?

Probably a combination of the digital processing and the type of monitors you use. What type of amp do you have? Maybe you need a modelling amp.

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just a simple frontman25, its really meant for just practicing right?

Could have something to do with mic placement. Even just a slight adjustment of the mic can make a noticeable difference.
It could also be the mic itself. If you're using a mic originally intended for vocals it's almost surely going to affect the sound before it makes it to the computer. The reason it sounds right with just the pedal is because that signal is being sent straight to the computer without anything in between to affect the tone.

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yeah thats what I figured

Are you running a line out to mic in (soundcard) ?

What kind of laptop - - a Mac?

Using a USB interface and which one?

There are many variables to consider before finding the answer.

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I have A sony vivo laptop and all I am doing is plugging my effect pedal directly into the mic jack on my laptop.

I don't use any of thoses UBS things that they sell, considering I just plug directly, whats the point?

Well this Sony is new to me and it doesn't seem making recordings loud enough with the way I am doing this, so I am guessing thats why they make the USB plugs?

Based on what i can tell about what your setup, you don't have any sort of pre or DI Box in the chain so that could be the cause of your low gain. A guy that does mixing here got the Line6 pocket pod and its pretty cool for a thing that cost a hundred bucks. Might be worth checking out and will give you some Amp modeling options.

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YMMV

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I don't think the volume (loudness) is from lack of using a USB interface. I've plugged from headphone in to mic input (w/reducer plug) and had plenty of loudness.

What software are you using to record with? I'm guessing that you might need
to edit your 'preferences' in the software.

_________________
Being able to play and enjoy music is a gift that's often taken for granted.

Don't leave home without it!