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Posted by: mroberts70 Jan 22 2013, 07:08 PM

I know we have similar threads, and I even considererd that this should go under the Gear section but felt that this topic would be better served in the practice room since I use my recording device for practice more than anything. I struggled for awhile before I figured out what worked for me to record digitally from my guitar to some usable file on my PC..... like .mp3 or .wav.

Rather than hash out brands and what's better, it appears that some of our brothers and sisters here at GMC are just limited to what they can easily get their hands on, and maybe need help figuring out their best option with what they can get.

I'm certainly no expert on this, but I know what finally worked for me. I also realize that MAC is better suited for this, but unfortunately I spent all my fun money on the guitars and amps so I'm left with my PC which is close to 3 years old now.... and it actually works decent for recording better than I thought. So if you have older equipment, there may be hope.

So.... anyone needing help with this particular topic? I'm sure there are enough of us here to lend a hand.



Here's my current load out until I can move on to bigger and better things...

- Toshiba Laptop running AMD Athlon X-2 Daul Core 1.2 MHz CPU Windows 7, 3 GIG Ram and 300 MB HD.
- PreSonus USB 2x2
- Audacity recording software. It's Free and used for Windows, Mac OS X, GNU/Linux and other operating systems. http://audacity.sourceforge.net/

As you can see, I have an old laptop and free software so I'm definately not here trying to tell anyone what is "Best" to get, I'm just thinking someone may need help with what they have or what they are limited in getting.... and the GMC community has a lot of good people in it who may be able to help out...

Posted by: mroberts70 Jan 22 2013, 08:27 PM

Here is some good info from our friend Sensible Jones:

For a more complete set up try http://www.reaper.fm/download.php, especially as it supports VST's and VSTi's. Meaning you can also download the free versions of Amplitube etc. to use within it!!

Thanks SJ! I'm trying it myself...

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 22 2013, 09:49 PM

REAPER is a great choice And it's cross platform!!!

As far as hardware, it really just depends on your budget. The good news is, in PC land, most modern laptops will do an adquate job of running your DAW and once you get a decent audio interface (usually for a couple/few hundred bux) and some decen headphones/monitors (around the same price) you are ready to enter the wonderful world of home recording

Also, here is my THREAD ON RECORDING TIPS

http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=35527

and my THREAD ON GEAR FOR THE HOME STUDIO


http://www.guitarmasterclass.net/guitar_forum/index.php?showtopic=35615

Todd

Posted by: osiris Jan 22 2013, 10:41 PM

Here are some of my own tips: http://www.osirisguitar.com/three-ways-to-record-electric-guitars/

I would definitely second the recommendation for Reaper, it's awesome and just $60 for a full personal license.

And Mac is not a better choice, just different. I use both Mac and PC - Mac has better audio drivers usually, while Windows has loads more VSTs available.

Posted by: mroberts70 Jan 22 2013, 11:54 PM

HA, there's Todd, I knew I could lure the master out with this one! I had actually been meaning to get catch up with you on some of this stuff Todd. I knew you had some good tips for stuff to use... It just seemed that we maybe had a few people around who needed a hand, and I wasn't sure where to grab a thread to bump...

Thanks Todd!




Thanks Osiris, that sounds reasonable to me. I just know a few people who use MAC, but my knowledge is limited with the whole recording thing so I guess there are probably lots of Windows options out as well. Just seemed that the MAC stuff was easier for my friends to hook up and use than what I've ran into with PC. It just always seemed that the MAC's were the top picks among those who record music/video or did graphic design. I've never really done either one before so it's all still new to me.

Thanks again for the comments. Those of us who don't know appreciate it...

Posted by: vonhotch Jan 23 2013, 03:40 AM

Hey, this is a good idea. Maybe it will help if I share my progression since joining. When I joined GMC I knew NOTHING about recording. I struggled to find how to submit video for my mentoring thread and then I found this video in the REC forum and it literally changed my musical life.

Before this I was using Audacity which is a great program but not the right tool for recording and editing guitar. After I started using Reaper and got a M-audio fast track used off ebay for like 20 bucks. Then I got started messing with vst's I have Amplitube now but I also started using free stuff, like Lepou's amp sims which you can get here ( http://lepouplugins.blogspot.com/ ) and also his Lecab 2 for loading impulse responses ( which you can find some cool ones here. I really liked the orange impulses http://bedroomproducersblog.com/2010/10/01/free-sample-shootout-6-best-free-guitar-cabinet-impulse-responses/ ). That website also has a lot of cool lists for some other cool free effects. Now I use Reaper and Amplitube and am working on upgrading to a faster computer and some studio monitors like Rokit krk 6's, and some Akg mk 240 headphones. I think Todd likes Overloud Th 1 and 2 for amp sims, I have not tried them yet. It's all a learning process. And sometimes learning to make the best out of what you have can bring on some interesting results.

Posted by: mroberts70 Jan 23 2013, 04:29 AM

HA, this is great. I know way more already after starting this thread. Maybe I'm the only one who wasn't aware of all the cool stuff out??

BAH, wouldn't be the first time I was behind the curve.... LOL

Thanks Vonhotch for your contribution!!!

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 23 2013, 11:52 AM

That little video is very good and I have always recommended it to anyone asking about a setup which involved free stuff Looks like it's still good! Let us know how it went

Posted by: Sensible Jones Jan 23 2013, 01:06 PM

Just a couple of lists of free VST's!!

Posted by: mroberts70 Jan 23 2013, 06:59 PM

Thanks yet again, all good stuff.

I pulled down the free version of Amplitube, and I have no problems with purchasing add ons, however I didn't want to put the cart before the horse so I wanted to give it a go with my existing computer before doing any add ons. So with this free version, do you know if there is really very much I can do with it? Also, the .vst files named in the video you posted... where exactly does one use those? Will they work with Amplitube, or is there another software that I need get in order to use the .vst's? My apologies if you covered this and I missed it, if so it would be likely that I did not comprehend the point you were making at the time.

Oh, and the video you posted in the other thread by Ivan was very helpful on setting up Amplitube. Thank you sir!

Posted by: Sensible Jones Jan 23 2013, 07:18 PM

Just had a look at the spec of your Laptop and you should be OK.
The free version is OK to get started with, it only has 24 bits of kit in it compared to the 230 in the full version but it's all usable stuff!
You would use Amlitube or one of those others in exactly the same way.
Open a track in Reaper, click the Monitoring button and arm it to record. Make sure you can hear your Guitar.
Click on the 'FX' button and you'll open up a dialogue box with a list of effects, click on the VST'i on the left and then find Amplitube (or the Poulin types if that's what you want), you have now assigned Amplitube (or whatever) to your guitar track, you should now be able to play around with the amp/cab and effects setting to your hearts content until you find a sound you like!!
Hope that all makes sense! If not let me know and I'll do some Screenshots and a walkthrough for you!


This might help you get started:-

Posted by: mroberts70 Jan 23 2013, 08:39 PM

I think I got it, I was just curious if I was right thinking that the VST's were like getting new gear, just plug into Amplitube and have fun. I'm headed out of the cave now to give this 21 century stuff a try. I'm keepin the caveman club though... just in case.

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 24 2013, 01:08 AM

The free version of amplitude (Amplitude Free) is actually a great way to get started. It doesn't have any annoying demo limitations like a BUZZ sound or drop outs. It just works and works well. It will also let you get used to tweaking the settings without overwhelming you options. That comes later

So yeah, Amplitude Free is a great place to start. It will run on your current laptop with reaper just fine. So Install Reaper and Amplitude and start recording today!!!!! You've got enough software and tips to get started so START!!!! You'll learn more by doing than you ever thought possible.

Todd

Posted by: mroberts70 Jan 24 2013, 01:17 AM

I'm on it... Can I get a VST that plays the guitar for me?

Posted by: Sensible Jones Jan 24 2013, 01:18 AM

Well said Todd, that's exactly how I've learnt to do the limited stuff that I know!!

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 25 2013, 07:55 AM

As my favorite Assassin once said 'Practice is the best way to learn" (The Professional)

Posted by: sammetal92 Jan 25 2013, 08:31 AM

The video vonhotch posted is pretty useful And of course, all the other videos are too, saw those in my own thread very helpful advice indeed

Mr Simpson's Home Recording Tips thread is giving me loads of knowledge on recording by the way

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 25 2013, 05:33 PM

Happy to help! Home recording is a wonderful thing.

Todd

Posted by: mroberts70 Jan 25 2013, 05:35 PM

... and Todd's extensive in home recording knowledge is a wonderful thing!

Posted by: sammetal92 Jan 25 2013, 06:03 PM

Agreed to both

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 25 2013, 06:24 PM

Well thanks!! It's always good to be appreciated. I've gotta say, I've learned at least as much as I've taught since I've been here, from Students, Instructors, our killer wiki, etc. I know I keep saying it but I really do love it here

Todd

I gotta also say, I think motivated students like you are are a SOOOOOPAAA wonderful thing

Posted by: sammetal92 Jan 25 2013, 06:42 PM

I got lots of motivation from everyone since I got here

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 26 2013, 11:20 AM

Well, indeed, Todd is the man to ask about digital devices and recording stuff

Posted by: Headbanger Jan 28 2013, 04:25 PM

Umm...Hope someone can tell me where I've gone wrong. I have the trial version of Reaper installed and also amplitude 3 free version. They both sit on my desktop and work independently of each other. When I watched the above video, I realised I should be able to open amplitude up from the vsti box as shown...amplitude isn't there, neither are the poulin VSTs there. The poulins I put the dlls files in the plugins folder in Reaper on the C drive. Must have done something wrong! Please help...Thanks!!

Posted by: sammetal92 Jan 28 2013, 04:32 PM

In Reaper, click Options -> Preferences, then in the window that pops up, in the left-side menu, click VSTs. Then click Add, and browse to the folder where your Plugins are. Then click Re-Scan.

All the plugins should appear in the VSTs section now.

Posted by: SpaseMoonkey Jan 28 2013, 04:38 PM

Bah! You beat me to it but I'll add this here!



This is what the window looks like.

Posted by: Headbanger Jan 28 2013, 05:05 PM

Thanks Sammetal I'll try that...isn't amplitube a program rather than a plugin?




Thanks Spasemoonkey..You can probably see what I asked Sammetal.

Posted by: sammetal92 Jan 28 2013, 05:27 PM

Hahaha Spasemoonkey

And Headbanger, yes and no, it can be used as a standalone program and also a VST in reaper or any other DAW

Posted by: Headbanger Jan 28 2013, 06:35 PM

OK Now I'm getting somewhere...The eagle has landed......Well Amplitube seems to have landed in Reaper... and works...Now I'm just going to play for a while until that all sinks in before I move onto the next step!!! Thanks Guys for your help!!!!

Posted by: sammetal92 Jan 28 2013, 06:38 PM

Anytime and do ask whenever you need help!

Posted by: Headbanger Jan 28 2013, 06:43 PM

Thanks Sammetal I think I need to get a DI or interface for the guitar to cut out background noise though...considering I've spent nothing yet apart from the potential $60 for Reaper licence in the future (unless someone tells me there something better cheaper) Thats pretty good!!

Edit: I am getting a lot of feedback on the Lead channels for some reason on amplitube..through my headphones?

Posted by: SpaseMoonkey Jan 28 2013, 06:51 PM

Interference may be the factor for ya sir. Just move away from the computer, speakers, and electronics in general. Also turn the gain down just a hair if it full blown on. I know when I record I have to turn my chair away from my pc to take out static/feedback.


If you are just looking for guitars maybe something like this: http://line6.com/podstudiogx/


And an example from one of our other members Brandon! (TheFireball)

Posted by: sammetal92 Jan 28 2013, 06:53 PM

I didn't find anything better than Reaper for me at least, my friend got Cubase with an audio interface and he turned to Reaper after using cubase for awhile and he's been using it for the past 2 years

Try turning the output levels down, or maybe the gain down. Use a Tubescreamer VST to boost the guitar's signal (turn the overdrive to 0, level to max and tone around 2 o clock).

Posted by: Headbanger Jan 28 2013, 07:07 PM

Thanks Spasemoonkey...I'll try and move about a bit!
That guy on the video was quite amusing ! I like the sounds on that...Its a similar price to the Presonus interface..Now I'll have to research between the both as I had it in mind to get one of them.


Cheers Sammetal..I'll try that as well!

Posted by: sammetal92 Jan 28 2013, 07:11 PM

You'd like to read this article!

http://www.connorgilks.com/apps/blog/show/18567655-record-distorted-guitar-for-free-at-home-using-ir-s-pc-or-mac-

Posted by: Headbanger Jan 28 2013, 07:16 PM

I just read it it was interesting... thanks mate!!

Posted by: sammetal92 Jan 28 2013, 07:30 PM

Yes its very helpful, it proved extremely useful for me so I bookmarked it for future reference

Posted by: SpaseMoonkey Jan 29 2013, 01:29 AM

I'm not sure I would recommend a Presonus interface for DI recording. If things haven't improved since mine, Presonus Audio Box USB 1.1, then you will just clip with the DI of a guitar to interface. I also had my instrument/mic knobs turned down to -10db. If you had an amp and you were to mic I'd suggest it, which I had great results. I also have a great results running say a multi-effect pedal that has XLR outs or even an amp with XLR outs to it. Just that the DI route was horrible for me. But that could be due to needing a line level. But mine is the cheapest on the market and about 2 years old now as well, things may have changed in that time.

Posted by: Headbanger Jan 29 2013, 10:26 AM

Ive bookedmarked it too..Cheers!



Thanks SpaseM
Ok...A lot to think about..my Presonus thoughts were from a reccomendation from someone here using something called a Presonus 2x 2 USB and I don't know if that would have been the same as yours...Is The guy using the pod studio line6 using the line 6 software that came with it and combining that with Reaper and Amplitube?...I must admit that I like his sounds and sounds that I've heard others using line 6 equipment have produced...I expect there is a separate discussion for that on Gear.
Cheers Rod

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 30 2013, 07:00 AM

Bingo! Nice article from our Mr. Connorgilks there. Pretty much details the entire process.

Todd

YES! You can use even the cheapest line six box (The Tone Port) and it will suffice as an audio interface for your guitar. You just need to get clean signal in to the computer. The tone port will do that just fine. Any of the line 6 interfaces will take care of you. Later on when you start wanting to use microphones and such it will be time to upgrade, but it's always time to upgrade at some point.

So you launch reaper and then launch amplitude INSIDE REAPER, most folks who are new to recording, try to launch amplitude and THEN launch reaper. It doesn't work that way sadly You gotta launch your plugins inside the daw.

Todd

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 30 2013, 08:37 AM

Well, the Line 6 interfaces are varied while they all use that software called Gear Box - that one can come up with nice tones - tried and tested. Although I had a hellish ride trying to install and setup the UX1 for a student here in Romania... I was THIS close to saying 'hey this digital thingie is not bad at all' I just changed my mind

Posted by: Headbanger Jan 30 2013, 02:53 PM

So did you like them or not?




Thanks Todd, I'll have to have a think..I think I will be mainly wanting to record guitar to improve in that dept. at the moment...Line 6 tone port may be the solution...I'm just wanting clean input into Reaper/amplitube.

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Jan 31 2013, 08:55 AM

I like the tones but the installation and setup are a major turnoff for me - things should be friendly not complicated But that's me, you have to try it yourself and see if YOU like it

Posted by: Headbanger Jan 31 2013, 10:06 AM

You're Right Cosmin...but its easier to ask before you buy sometimes. I totally agree with you that things should be friendly and this is the second time Ive heard this is hard to set up!!

Posted by: Todd Simpson Jan 31 2013, 02:49 PM

I've never set up one of the line 6 interfaces personally so I can't help ya there. But make sure to follow the instructions and such. Usually its' install drivers/reboot/plug in the gear/launch daw or app.


Todd

Posted by: Headbanger Jan 31 2013, 03:24 PM

Ok Thanks Todd... so do you think an Ultra DI 120 would give me a clean sound?..I think Spasemoonkey was trying to tell me earlier in this thread that DI wasn't any good...But the guy on the video show the DI 120 unit which are about 35 euros instead of 100/120 euros for line 6.

Posted by: Cosmin Lupu Feb 1 2013, 10:48 AM

Theoretically yes But in practice, it asked me for all sorts of upgrades which I couldn't get unless I had something else installed, which needed to get something from the internet which needed something else installed After a bit of this, it gets really annoying But then again, that's just me

Posted by: Todd Simpson Mar 16 2013, 09:50 PM

I hear ya But that sounds like computer recording in general just a bit yeah? Update this, go get that, reboot, etc. All of which is a big pain in the neck. These days home recording is about half made of up SYSTEM ADMINISTRATION. So if one is not comfy on the system admin side, then the whole enterprise seems like a HUGE chore. One cure for this is too simply get a MAC I know that may sound trite. But in my experience, my mac machines have just been easier to setup, easier to use, less prone to issues etc. Of course EVERYONE MILEAGE WILL VARY and some folks HATE MACS. To each his own

Todd