How does computer recording work?

I was wondering if you could just install some recording software and plug your guitar into your computer. Do you need a good computer for that? I would just like to know how it works.

I was wondering if you could just install some recording software and plug your guitar into your computer. Do you need a good computer for that? I would just like to know how it works.

You need some kind of audio interface too. You could get a sound card for your computer if it doesn't already have one, or an external unit like a Pod Toneport or a Digidesign MBox as a couple of examples of less expensive ones. The external units usually come with the software included. Your computer needs to have enough processing power to handle running the program.

Ya your computer should have an on board soundcard with at the very least a 1/8' line level input and a 1/8" mic level input. So it's just a matter of a 1/4" to 1/8" adapter. If you already have a preamplified signal tap into the line level input if you don't tap into the mic level input. Might have to access your audio control panel and raise the levels for an audible signal to come through.

Some newer computers may have a SPDIF input which means it will accept a digital signal, so if you had an effects processor like a Boss GT 8 with digital output you could tap into the SPDIF input on your computer. This is by far a better option than using mic or line level inputs with generic audio cards.

You can get away with a suprisingly slow machine if all you are doing is recording a raw signal (one that is processed outside of the computer). If you start applying effects (virtual effects or instruments) within the software itself, this is where you'll notice a slow machine doesn't have the chops.

It's gotta be the crudest way to record though dude so don't expect great results but a good way to start brand spanking new.

Stevieboy's advice with going with an external audio interface is the best approach IMO

zoso...as StuH suggests, you can get started with very minimal equipment.. 3 or 4 years ago I bought Cakewalk Guitar Tracks 2 for $40, and plugged one mike into the soundcard on my old Compaq 750..yes, a 750.. and have been using that ever since.

I mike everything, including PA for vocals, and while it's not state of the art, it'll definitely get you going while you research more modern options..that's what I've been doing for 4 years now:neutral:

Feel free to go to Twanger Central and check out some of the stuff I've recorded this way, and good luck.

here you go!

http://audacity.sourceforge.net/download/

Thanks guys now I have an idea of how it works. I may just have to go buy some recording equiptment.

Thanks guys now I have an idea of how it works. I may just have to go buy some recording equiptment.the good news is, that nowadays you have to spend something like 200 bucks and you are in recording business. a toneport plus a microphone plus some good drumloops can keep you busy for a long time. good luck zoso!

A buddy of mine installed Cool Edit Pro on my laptop before I even got into recording (I guess he saw potential ha) anyway when I did get around to dabbling with it I started to realize what a powerful too I had at my disposal. It really is awesome with everything you could possibly need for recording a surprisingly quality product. Over 100 tracks to record on. mixing, effects, the whole thing. I run the headphone out to my old stereo for monitors. I still havent figured out all its features, just enough to do what I need. Just use your Mic and headphone jacks and and off you go. When your done with final mixdown, save as MP3 and burn to disk. You can save "sessions" so you can open later and tweak if you find you dont like it later. I use a USB mic input now cuz I had a few too many and tripped over the cord and ripped out the Microphone input jack..but thats another story for another time.......