Greg Perkins wrote:
Don't bother trying to use your PC sound card, the latency is too high.
You need a USB2.0 or better sound module like the Focussrite.
This is my setup
In the early nineties I bought a really cheap KAWAI keyboard that had a MIDI interface. I still use this an a midi input keyboard when I want to lay down any midi instruments etc.
Later I bought a Roland SC-50 sound canvas (basically a keyboard without keys) because I was tired of lugging the keyboard around to gigs. (one man pub stuff) . I still use this for MIDI playback. You could use your internal PC midi player for this.
Application wise I used to use Cakewalk, but that was an ancient windows version and as such eventually was retired.
Then V8 introduced me to Reaper as a DAW application. $60 licence.
On the sound Interface, I decided to go the Focusrite 18i6. This gives me 2 balanced XLR inputs at the front, each with their own gain control switchable between instrument or line. I use these for voice and mic recording of guitar etc. My Laney RB2 Bass amp has a balanced XLR DI output that I plug into one of these.
At the back I have MIDI in, out. Keyboard on the in, and SC-50 on the out.
6 X TRS inputs that can be used in pairs for stereo or as mono. I have my SC-50 Sound canvas Stereo sound permanently in one pair, my Roland Cube 30 and my AC-33 in mono inputs.. This leaves two for other devices.
There is also a S/PDIF input/output on RCA and Eight optical ADAT channels. I don't use these but they would be used to connect to another ADAT device that can take up to 8 mics/devices. This would be used to mic up a drum kit for example.
My Scarlet outputs are connected to two Yamaha HS50M monitors. You could use a PA if you have one or if your amp has a line in option, or even a hifi. You could also just use the Headphone out.
So to answer your question the most basic setup would be
Focusrite 2i2 ( this gives you the two balanced XLR inputs with gain controls) You use these to connect your instruments/mics when recording.
A set of headphones
A DAW application (Reaper or equivalent)
There are a number of free virtual instruments on the internet. I am using MT-power drum kit for drums(free download)
If you are going to input via MIDI, a midi keyboard and a MIDI interface. I have a usb midi cable, that I am happy to donate to your cause if you are not going for the bigger Focusrite options that have MIDI interfaces.
Playback for midi can either be the same keyboard or the internal PC midi device.
Seeing as you are in Cape Town I am happy to show you the setup if to want to drop in sometime.
pm me
Thanx mate ill contact you soon +1
