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[Stripey]

if you've got a computer, buy a half decent audio interface (probably under 100 quid), get some software (even adobe audition will do) and don't waste your time and money faffing around with expensive, restrictive, obsolete hardware multitrackers which belong in the bin.

[Larsen B]

Originally Posted by Stripey

if you've got a computer, buy a half decent audio interface (probably under 100 quid), get some software (even adobe audition will do) and don't waste your time and money faffing around with expensive, restrictive, obsolete hardware multitrackers which belong in the bin.

God, knew this was coming. Shut up ya fool, he wasn't asking how to not-buy-a-multitrack-recorder.

[Stripey]

Originally Posted by Larsen B

God, knew this was coming. Shut up ya fool, he wasn't asking how to not-buy-a-multitrack-recorder.

Why spend a couple of hundred quid on an obsolete machine which has limited functionality when you can spend half the money and get better results on your existing computer with software which does the same thing and a hell of a lot more? You don't have a clue.

[scottyboy]

Originally Posted by Larsen B

God, knew this was coming. Shut up ya fool, he wasn't asking how to not-buy-a-multitrack-recorder.

half the replies in the thread have said the same thing...

i would agree with getting some free software recorder/sequencer etc and basic soundcard/mics just to experiment at first. assuming you have a computer

some software i've seen recommended on a few guitar forums. not sure how good it is but its free.
Audacity: Free Audio Editor and Recorder

kristal i think i've also seen recommended

[Frosty Jack]

Originally Posted by Larsen B

God, knew this was coming. Shut up ya fool, he wasn't asking how to not-buy-a-multitrack-recorder.

To be fair, it's good advice. The OP has already said they have no idea where to start, and the fact is they are probably sitting right in front of the best piece of equipment they could get to start with. A computer with the right (possibly free) software and the right connections could be just the job. I like Audacity, m'self. It doesn't have to be complicated or expensive.

Some people who have been used to using multitracks for years (myself and Alan Cynic for example) feel more comfortable using them and are scared at the thought of using these new fangled computer thingies.

[Alan Cynic]

True....I like sliding real faders and twiddling real knobs (woah, Dusty!!!)

The library was mentioned earlier...I believe they have multi track recording equipment for loan, free.

Personally, I use an Akai digital 12 track, but it's approaching death rapidly, and I would have no problem replacing it with a cassette 4 or 8 track. I quite like a bit of tape hiss, and otherwise the sound seems richer to my ageing ears.

[Humey Whilem]

I think I'm actually with stripey on this one (somebody call a doctor?).
I would suggest trying one of the free multitrack programs. Just try recording with a microphone in front of your amp/mouth (you will have to play around with distances etc.).

I think you'll find for first ever recordings the quality will not be too bad. There are plenty of decent built in effects in most of the free programs, if not you can get free plugins quite easily.

After playing around with that for a bit you will know what more you would want, maybe an audio interface or maybe even a 'proper' multitracker.

Personnally I think I would eventually want an analogue (to digital) multitracker - I think digital is too digital. Lacks a bit of heart.

[Chris]

I like audacity, it's fine for recording guitar parts and ideas to send to fellow band members but I wouldn't use it for much more than that.

[delboy]

i still love my obsolete fostex X15 four track machine but dont use it for recording much. i put instruments into it then have the four track rigged to a switching box which goes into the computer and use adobe audition for recording. that probably doesnt make sense but it does to me!!!