[carol m]

I want to fix my computer so I can record. I've been reading threads for a couple of hours and would like some guidelines before I take the plunge.

I have already tried using the soundcard that came with the computer with a headset + mic in a USB port, and a relatively cheap mic into the 'mic in' port, but both methods result in 'gale force wind' effects so you can hardly hear the guitar, and nomatter how I try I cannot get the recorder to record for more than 60secs (I'm not taking it personally).

I don't have a pre-mixer or pre-amp but would buy one if I needed it.

I downloaded Audacity version1:2:4 about a year ago and haven't used it yet. When I go to Audacity site there is a version 1:2:6 available.

I can see it's going to take a good deal of effort to learn about a software program, so I should decide before I start if I should go with Audacity or Kristal. I see there's a sticky for Audacity (Hi Kenny), and a lesson on Kristal (Hi Tekker) and now would be the time to make a good choice rather than later. It needs to be as simple as possible as I know zero about levels, clipping, mixing etc. Also I found a Yamaha keyboard in the attic that was used about twice by the kids a few years ago so it would be good if I could tie that in later too.

I have my CD player and speakers linked to my computer already (for listening). I also have an audio tape deck (remember them?) hooked up to the CD player and computer so they are all linked.

My questions are,
1.should I go with Audacity or Kristal?
2.which is 'easier' for a beginner?
3.and if I go with Audacity should I ditch the older version and download the latest version before I start?

Any info and opinion would be appreciated

[knight46]

Trev,
I believe that is 1/4" to 1/8"...but be sure to brace the connection. It can be heavy and will pull messing up the connection.

[carol m]

Originally Posted by hilch

I'm confused Carol , did you do this { the bold type? } , the "How do I do this again has me baffled . Line in from guitar to computor you will need a adapter for your guitar lead into your computor
1/4 inch to 1/16 th I think it is ...

They only cost about $2 from memory ,

Happy recording
Trev..

Sorry to confuse you Trev. I did need an adapter to join the guitar lead to the computer 'line in'. The man in the store sold me one at the same time I bought the lead. However.......I had read Tekker's techy-lessons, so I already knew that I would need one (sorry, couldn't resist).

Thanks for pointing it out though, from where I am on the learning curve, any idiot mistake is possible!

[Hilch]

from where I am on the learning curve, any idiot mistake is possible!

I feel the same way Carol , so don't feel bad when you can't get something right , but I have found if you ask the question around here no-one minds and always you get the info you need ..

Ohh if your Hilch this is of coz different only because I set myself up all the time ..Man I gotta learn to zip it at times , I'm sure Clancy would agree

Trev

[carol m]

[quote=hilch;166330
Ohh if your Hilch this is of coz different Trev[/QUOTE]

I'm not sure what you mean there Hilch, but I'm sure no-one wants you to 'zip it' . And I don't feel bad when I make stupid mistakes, I can usually see the funny side, so I have fun too.

[Hilch]

Originally Posted by carol m

I'm not sure what you mean there Hilch, but I'm sure no-one wants you to 'zip it' . And I don't feel bad when I make stupid mistakes, I can usually see the funny side, so I have fun too.

That's kool Carol ..

When it ceases to be fun , it ceases to be enjoyed

My grandfather told me that little saying when I was about 10 or so and it is very very true ..

[drt_t1gg3r]

Being an avid user of both Audacity and KAE, I prefer to KAE for mixing sounds/levels and adding any effects. It's real easy to use and if you are not the type to open and read the manual before playing with the toy then definitely KAE is the way to go. The visual display is easy to understand and the tool tip's help tremendously.

On the other hand, mixing down and filtering seems to be better with Audacity. The ability to mix down to mp3 or other than .wav files is great. Filter out noises, raising and lowering pitch, and other neat abilities that Audacity offers makes it well worth the fun and time it will take you to try and learn how to use the software properly. Definitely a "Manual will help you" type software.

So, in my opinion, between the two I use KAE for raw recording/mixing levels/effects and Audacity to clean it up/noise reduction/noise filtering/mixing down

[carol m]

In case other beginners at recording are reading this thread, I can say that if you have an acoustic/electric guitar you have a MAJOR advantage when you get to the stage of recording yourself on computer.

I tried to use a mic (because I thought that would be easier). It wasn't very expensive, but wasn't the cheapest you can get either, and had a lot of white noise and when I used 'noise removal' it caused some distortion, maybe because there was so much to remove.

But when I used a $20 cable into 'Line In' of the computer it was magic. Completely no noise. And so easy, just plug your guitar in and go. No amp, mixer, nothing.

Also, when I used an ordinary head-set mic it had much less white noise than the 'real' mic.

Also, while reading back over this thread, its interesting because I can see how (very) far I have come. From a very low start and still only at the beginning of the learning curve but I encourage people to have a go at recording. Its fun, and really gives you good feedback on your playing (and progress over time).

Also a big thankyou to all the friends and helpers who are still giving me helpful advice. Its much appreciated