I have Windows XP operating system with a Pentium D (whatever that means) on my Dell. I have decided to start recording directly into my computer rather than by using my video camera (it's a good one, a ZOOM Q3HD) to capture the guitar & vocals from an amp and the BIAB (and sometimes karaoke tracks) from the computer speakers. To me it sounds good but, of course, it'd be much better going direct.

SO WHERE DO I START? Oh, and PLEASE, I do NOT want to spend a lot of money NOW because I'll just get depressed and decide to stick with the INdirect recording method I have been doing. I know I need an interface (I only want one with TWO inputs just for guitar and microphone!) but I have some questions. I have been messing with my BIAB for a few years now and have finally learned enough of it to quickly generate songs. My question, however, is should I now start getting into RealBand? I have read that it's the program I use for recording. But I really don't want to. So isn't there a way to continue doing things on BIAB and have it play on my computer (while recording) and also, while I play and sing (with the interface) at the same time?? Or do I have to start using RealBand?

Again, I'm looking for inexpensive route because although I want the better sound, and also to be able to tweak everything, the cost will just depress me and I'll stick with the way I have been doing things. NO I don't care about sounding like an experienced pro now but just want to make everything a bit BETTER then the way I've been doing things. (Hey, some of the stuff isn't too bad actually!)

Also, what's a good beginners software recording program and interface? Sony ACID Music Studio 8.0? Apple GarageBand? Cakewalk Music Creator 6? M-Audio Fast Track MKII USB Audio Interface with Pro Tools SE??

Thanks in advance.

Last edited by rokq22; 03/02/12 01:47 PM.