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As always, you can also email me with a question that you would want to see answered on the site.
Comments»
Today I bought Pro Tools LE with the Mbox 2 Interface. After I had installed PT and the 7.3.1 upgrade I opened up PT, created a new session, and everything worked fine. I then closed it out and came back it later, and every time I have tried to open PT since then it has “Unexpectedly quit” about 1/3 through the loading time when it is loading plug-ins. Is there anything I can do to fix this? I’ve tried restarting several times and it has made no difference. Also, should I have received an upgrade to PT 7.4 as well?
Hi Luke -
If you register your product on Digidesign.com (you’ll have to make a profile if you don’t have one), then you will receive an email link for a free upgrade download (“Amnesty upgrade” I think they call it).
You may want to trash your preferences, assuming you are on a Mac, restart, and then try it out. Usually this will work. If it doesn’t, let us know what computer you are using it on, and hopefully we can help.
Hi Connor,
Thanks for the info on the Amnesty upgrade.
Sorry, I forgot to specify about my comp. I am on a new Imac with Leopard, 10.5.2. (2Ghz processer, 1gig ram if it makes any difference).
What did you mean by ‘trash your preferences’? After PT had crashed a few times, it asked if I would like to reset the application settings and I did, but it didn’t change anything. Is that what you were referring to?
Also, with all of the problems with PT working on leopard, would you advise upgrading to 7.4 or waiting until Digidesign releases an update?
I’m not on my Pro Tools computer right now, but I am pretty sure you go to Users>name>Library> and trash the DAE, Digidesign, etc… preferences.
You should definitely upgrade to 7.4cs2 or 3 (most success is happening there).
If that doesn’t work, I would get on 10.5.1 rather than 10.5.2. Most people are having a lot better luck with 10.5.1.
Okay great, I’ll try all of that.
Thanks for all your help!
Hey Connor,
First of all, great site! I am glad to see that I can still contact you and Damon regarding my recording questions.
It has been awhile since I worked with any type of DAW…I graduated from UD two years ago, and at that time, I was working with ArtStreet’s DAW via Damon’s Music Tech class. You also recorded a demo for my former band, The Melting Room (I played lead guitar for them). Anyways, now that I have been working awhile, I have saved up some money and I am considering my options for building a home studio.
As of now, I have a Yamaha MG24 mixer, some Auralex studio foam (32 1′x1′x2″ panels), and a series of mics. I really liked the simplicity of the Alesis HD24 in coordination with the Mac at ArtStreet, but it has been so long that I am quite overwhelmed by the process/setup, etc.
I will primarily be doing small projects on my own–recording my own songs, which can get pretty track-intensive, but I don’t think I would need more than 24. Aside from that, I may use the HD24 to record my band and then transfer the tracks for mixing.
Any suggestions on what to purchase would be helpful. I read up on your comments about computers–sounds like I would go with an iMac? Damon mentioned the MOTU interface and the Alesis firewire interface. There is quite a significant difference in price between the two, so I was wondering if there is anything to be wary of.
As far as software goes, I also read your blog. I used DP back at UD. It seemed fairly easy to use at the time. Which is the easiest–I am not the most tech-savvy person, but I am a quick learner. Any other suggestions?
I am trying to stay at or under $4000; However, depending on your suggestions, I would be open to spending a little more.
Sorry for the Novel.
Thanks!
Howdy –
Glad to hear things are going well. For a home studio (unless you think you will do a lot of live location recording), I would pass on the HD24. You will probably want to get going with a computer-based setup. I would also suggest maybe looking at a 16-input setup, rather than 24. 16 simultaneous inputs will be enough to cover a huge majority of projects (plus in a DAW, you can have as many audio tracks as you need)
First you will have to start with a choice of DAW. Pro Tools is very popular (and hopefully in the next 2 weeks it will FINALLY be compatible with Leopard). Logic would also be an awesome choice.
If you went the Pro Tools route, I would get a 003R (the rack version). That interface has 4 preamps, 4 line inputs, and an additional 8 ADAT inputs (so you could get an 8-channel preamp and run that digital out into the 003R). I think the 003R runs about $1300 (but I’d suggest getting the factory bundle for a little extra money). Also with Pro Tools, you are going to want to get the Music Production Toolkit (which is $500… ouch!). That will give you more available tracks, more plug-ins and instruments, and MP3 export option.
If you went with Logic, you might want to try one of the PreSonus setups. Those are very reasonably priced, and they FireWire together to give you up to 24 (maybe more too?) inputs at a time. Lots of people use those with Cubase, which is also a great DAW, but I would go with Logic over Cubase (personal choice).
I am running out the door here, but I will respond more here in a bit… hopefully this gets you started. More to come…
thanks
C
Hi Mike,
I would agree with Connor that a computer based setup is proibably best. You can track to your heart’s content with either of the setups below.
If you go the Mac route, you could get 16 channels with a MOTU 8-pre, and a Presonus Digimax FS (which would send eight channels of 96K ADAT to the 8-pre). With the MOTU unit, you can upgrade to Digital Performer for $395–but I think I would go with Logic 8 for $499. Start to finish, that’s only around $1650 before tax which would leave you $2350 for a new mac 8-core.
And personally, I think the Logic plugins (standard) smoke the Pro Tools factory bundle/Music Production Toolkit (sorry Connor) for the price. If I had $4K, that’s what I would do.
Don’t forget, since you are still in the area, we can visit you to help you get set up (maybe even put you on TV!)
Keep us posted and ask questions.
Damon
The Studio Files
^^I would agree for the most part (especially if you count all of Logic’s awesome instruments).
Pro Tools EQ3 and Dynamics 3 are pretty darn cool, and the factory plugs (tel ray, joe meek stuff, etc) are very cool, and of course Smack and those in the MPT rock…. but as most anyone would agree…. money-wise, Logic is a LOT! more bang for the buck.
And as Damon said, you still have ~$2400 left for the computer. The Mac pro is amazing (the single quad core model starts around that price range). The 24″ 2.8Ghz dual core iMac is in your range too. With the iMac, make sure you get a good quality firewire hard drive to use as your recording drive (or on the Mac Pro, get an extra SATA drive)
Yup. Now that the iMacs come with Firewire 800, you can have a blazing fast external SATA for recording projects. It’s actually a really good option for what you need. Those 24″ screens are very nice.
Get AT LEAST 2G of RAM. You might consider paying the $400 and getting 4G factory shipped. Only two slots in that bad boy. Connor might know more about the RAM.
Record with this rig in Logic, then send the project to Connor for final track sweetening and a killer mix/master. Nice.
DS
Hey Guys,
Thanks so much for the input! This is all becoming clearer to me and I am starting to remember a little bit. I think to start with, 8 inputs would be fine. If that is the case, which would be the better interface: PreSonus or MOTU 8?
Also, mobility might be a slight concern as I would like to record drums from time to time. Any suggestions for recording and transferring data without having to disassemble and transport the whole system?
I will keep you posted on what I decide to go with. It looks like the Mac Depot has the lowest prices on computers and software as far as I can tell.
Thanks Again!
Hi Mike,
Regarding the iMac, I would go with the 2.4ghz 20″ model and use the money saved on the 24″ to buy a second display. Then I would drop in 4GB of ram myself ($400 is way to much, you can find 4gigs of pc2-5300 ram for less than $100 – just check out slickdeals.net). To save even more money, I would check out the refurb deals at apple.com. I’ve bought several refurb computers from Apple and every one has arrived in brand new condition, most times with a few extras included!
PJ
^^not a bad idea at all.
When doing audio stuff (and video stuff, etc…) screen space is extremely valuable. (And starting with the intel iMacs, all have support for dual display)
Definitely get the ram 3rd party. I myself use macsales.com or newegg.com
I think either the MOTU or a PreSonus unit are going to give you similar quality and results. Definitely get the MOTU if you want to go with Digital Performer (although I think Logic is a better choice).
As far as recording drums somewhere else, best bet is to just move your equipment probably. With the iMac, your external hard drive, and one interface (don’t take your second display), that’s not too much to unplug and carry
Still is a hassle though, I know.
Hey Guys,
Thanks again. So it looks like the best choice at this point is an iMac 20″ 2.4 dual core, an additional display, a MOTU pre-8, and Logic. Damon mentioned something about Firewire being included with the iMacs…does this mean I would not need another recording drive? If I do need one what should I get?
How about monitors…any suggestions?
Thanks so much for your ongoing help with all of this.
For the drive, I would really recommend a Glyph drive. (like this one)
Yes, they are more expensive. But, I own some and think they are worth every penny.
Integrated power supplies, quiet operation, great warranty (including data recovery), rack mountable…. you can’t beat them. Plus their chipsets are compatible across the board.
As far as monitors go, I would shop at Newegg.com. I’d get a monitor in the 20″ or above range. I have two Acer monitors that cost a little over 200$ a piece (and probably less by now). Newegg doesn’t sell “bad” products though, so whatever is in your budget (and read the reviews). You can also get your Ram through there (although I’ve never installed ram on an iMac, might want to google that).
Also, check this deal out: http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/FireStudio/
Very cool.
Wow.
@Connor: That Firestudio deal is killer. Good call.
If you are going the Logic route (vs DP) then the MOTU 8-pre is not a must. I would take Connor’s suggestion and grab the 2626! The 7506 headphones (part of the deal) are mid range industry standard, and you’ll still have 8 great pre-amps going into your system. The 20″ iMac with a second monitor is a perfect idea. You’ll like that setup.
Hey guys, I think we have zeroed in on a pretty killer starter system here. Can’t wait to hear what you do with it, Mike!
Damon
Yeah with the headphones and monitor controller, not too shabby.
That just got me thinking: this setup is null and void unless you get some monitors. We should figure out what you are getting so far, total it up, and then figure out how much you have left to decide on monitors.
Some more thoughts – when shopping for a second monitor I would look for one similar in height to the 20″ iMac, which is 18.5″ tall. A lot of 22″ monitors come in around there (and some are adjustable).
Upgrading the ram is easy to do yourself – here is a video that can walk you through it – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glki-cEICpo
Also, Buy.com has a sweet deal on 2gb Crucial memory right now
http://www.buy.com/retail/product.asp?sku=203447468
Don’t forget to use Google checkout and get $10 off. Oh yea, theres a 5% coupon too
http://www.buy.com/retail/coupon.asp?prid=84773074
PJ
OK..change of plans. My parents have two flat-screen displays they no longer use. They have agreed to let me take them off their hands. Any compatibility issues I should be worried about–they were used with PC’s. Assuming there are no issues, I will go with the Mac Pro Quad-Core (Quad-Core 2.8GHz Intel Xeon 2GB/320/2600XT/SD–this is $2214.
Then the FireStudio Package: $700. (PreSonus, headphones, etc.).
Logic $478.
Grand Total of $3392 thus far.
How about monitors?
And would I need the Glyph drive with this rig?
Thanks!
For the monitors, just see if they have analog or digital inputs. The Mac Pro’s have 2 video outputs, both are DVI, [ Damon here: but you can get cables to convert that to VGA (which is probably what the monitors will take, if they are a few years old). I'm sure they will work.--DS]
Unless you are going to be transferring to other studios, I would just grab an extra SATA drive. (Go to macsales.com, they are cheap there, or PJ may know somewhere even better). Eventually I’d get an external, but its cheaper to get a SATA drive to start.
If you could chunk out $1000 for monitors, I’d get the ADAM A7 or the JBL LSR4326.
For a few hundred less, the Yamaha HS80M are great. For around $400, the Samson Rubicon series sound pretty good. I’d say, the more you can invest, the better your mixes will sound right off the bat.
Hey Guys,
I have made a final decision. Thanks for all of your help! I bought a Mac Pro 8 core today with 2.8 GHz. For the interface, I am going to go with the PreSonus Digimax. Despite all of the hype about ProTools, I am going with Logic–more bang for my buck with lots of great midi features out of the box. As far as a midi controller goes, I have decided to go with the M-Audio 61 key Axiom controller. Lots of knobs and sliders, semi-weighted keys, and pads for drum samples. For a $150 more than the oxygen, I think there’s a great deal more features. Lastly, studio monitors–I know these are a very very important piece of the puzzle, but unfortunately, I have to skimp here on the budget for right now. I will probably go with something simple until I get too picky to take it anymore. I am thinking $300 at most for a pair of monitors right now.
I just wanted to make sure I got the most processing speed right now. The iMac was tempting, but I thought that I would rather shell out the money now for the top system rather than spending money later to upgrade to a Pro.
So there you have it. The Pro should be here in about a week. Then comes the next challenge: assembly and education.
Thanks Again!
Mike
Mike!
The Presonus is not an interface!! It’s a preamp. You will still need something to get the channels into the computer (like the MOTU 2408 or 8-pre)
You need to get the ADAT optical or analog channels into the computer, bro!!!
DS
Thanks for the correction, Damon! I thought the presonus and motu 8-pre were comparable systems (meaning they do the same thing).
So is the MOTU 8-pre an interface and preamp? I am confused now.
Thanks,
Mike
Yes.
The MOTU 8-pre will give you the connectivity (interface) AND the preamps. The Presonus Digimax would ADD 8 channels to that setup, but does not communicate directly with the computer.
You know–I forget how stupidly confusing this stuff is until I need to explain it to smart people who are just getting started.
DS
Hey Mike–
If you are talking about the Presonus Firestudio 2626, then you would have the preamps and the firewire connectivity. Connor mentioned it in an earlier post. The Digimax is a great unit (I own an earlier version), but preamps only.
DS
Thanks, Damon. I have decided to go with the MOTU 8pre for now. I may add the Digimax a little later.
So here is the final setup:
Mac Pro Quad Core
2 Displays (15″ & 17″)
Logic Pro 8
MOTU 8pre
M-Audio BX5a Active Monitors
M-Audio Axiom 61 Midi Controller
The computer arrives a week from today.
Am I missing anything at this point?
Also, I was looking at some Midi software yesterday and I stumbled upon something called Abbey Road Keyboards (Samples from stuff used at Abbey Road by the Beatles, etc.) Is there a way to get this software to Logic even though it is Reason compatible? Or would I have to buy Reason?
Looks good, Mike.
Just need some cables and some inspiration!
To answer the q about Abbey Road Keyboards: It is possible with a program called Translator from Chicken Systems ($149). By the time you get that and the Reason Refill ($185) you should just buy the new FabFour Instrument from East West. Check it out here. They are also having a buy one get one free sale–Ministry of Rock or Colossus would also be killer addition to your arsenal. I just picked up Gypsy and FabFour. The sounds are phenomenal. There are still a few slight growing pains with these instruments, but East West gives great customer service and tech support.
DS
Hey Guys,
I know Damon mentioned the FabFour, but I noticed that it does not have the great Steinway ‘Tack Piano” that I love on the Abbey Road software. Would you recommend Reason anyway? I hear that it is an incredible synth software.
Also, is there anything tricky about programming this stuff to my midi controller? The axiom didn’t come with any kind of manual (which could be good or bad in my opinion).
As David Bowie once said, “Synthesizers were created by these non-musical scientists to imitate real instruments…But the real magic happened when we threw away the manuals and just started messing about with the dials. We started getting all these crazy crackles and farts from them…”
Hey Guys,
Quick question for setup:
I have a Yamaha MG24 Mixer that I was planning to use as the initial input for instruments, mics, etc. Can I use the Insert I/O channel jacks to send the signal to my MOTU 8 pre? Or would I have to send the signal via the AUX sends? Obviously, I would like to send each individual channel to the 8 inputs on the MOTU. I know this is sort of a rudimentary question and that I/O means Input/Output, but I just wanted to double check before buying the patch cables.
I would assume that since the jacks are I/O that I would be able to send the signal to the MOTU without any problems.
Thanks in Advance! The 8 core will be here tomorrow and the monitors will arrive around the 12th. Everything else (displays, midi controller, etc.) is in place. Now I just have about 1000 pages of manuals to read and a studio to wire.
I am sure there will be more questions to follow…
Hi Mike,
If you like the preamps better on the yamaha, then you could use it as a first stage. Make sure that the inputs on the 8-pre are then switched to “line.” I would use directs rather than aux sends for recording…
But mostly, I would just use the preamps and inputs on the 8-pre. If you start with the Yamaha, then you are going to have one extra analog hop in your signal path. I would use the mixer to monitor the outputs of the 8-pre in stereo groups.
DS
Hey Guys,
Two Quick Questions.
1) Do I have to install Audio Desk in order to use the MOTU 8 pre? It looks like it would be kind of redundant since I will be using Logic to record/Mix.
2) Damon mentioned that using the MG24 in front of the MOTU would not be the best setup since it puts another link in the signal chain. He also mentioned that it would be best used to monitor the MOTU’s output in stereo. So it sounds like a 24 channel board is a bit overkill…(I have the board from my days with the Melting Room and it does not see much live action anymore). Would it be wise to sell this board at this point? I have a small 8 channel Yamaha mixer as well. If all the board will be useful for is monitoring, then is there any reason to hang on to the larger one?
I could get roughly $800 to $900 for it and it seems like the MOTU’s 8 channels will do the trick for much of my projects ( I may need to add an 8 channel snake, though). Your opinions would be much appreciated.
Thanks!
Hmmm…
I don’t think you’ll get that much for the MG24–best to keep it around for occasional live sound applications, I’d think.
And, No; you do not have to install Audiodesk–just the MOTU firewire drivers (which you should get from motu.com).
DS (Connor’s here too. We’re installing my new JBL LSR4328s. WOOT!)
JBL’s! Nice! I’ll have to get you guys some pics of the studio once it’s up and running. Guess I’ll hang on to the MG24…the moment I sell it, I’ll probably end up needing it anyways.
Thanks again for all your help, I couldn’t have even begun to assemble this without it.
Oh yeah, does the MOTU have phantom power switches? There are some good deals on MXL 4000 condenser mics right now. (Nearly $1000 off!).
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/MXL-4000-MultiPattern-FET-Studio-Condenser-Mic?sku=270624
If not, I know my MG24 has phantom power.
Hey Guys,
Just wanted to let you know that the Mac Pro has arrived. So here’s the final setup:
17″ Gateway Flat-panel Display
22″ LG Flat-panel Display
MOTU 8-pre Firewire Audio Interface
Mac Pro 8-core
Axiom 61-key MIDI controller
2 KRK Rockit RP-6 Monitors (still waiting on them)
Logic Pro 8
I am looking into condenser mics right now and eventually, I intend to add some virtual instruments to the arsenal.
Thanks again for all of your help! Hopefully, I can get all of this up and running without any trouble.
Mike
Awesome!
Be sure to send us pictures when you are up and running. And, if there are any bumps in the road during setup, let us know, we can help.
Hey Guys,
Quick question:
What is the procedure for powering up/powering down?
Is it MOTU first then computer?
Just want to avoid any rudimentary mistakes…
Currently, I am in the process of installing all the software…needless to say, it takes awhile…
Many thanks again,
Mike
Yeah, software installing is always tedious…
I would recommend that you turn your firewire devices on before you start your computer. Although the chances are very very very low, you can theoretically fry a firewire port if you don’t.
Speakers on last too, just in case of weird pops/clicks/noises.
Also, with some motu interfaces, if you turn your computer off before the interface, they send super loud noise through the outputs…. make sure your speakers are off just in case the 8pre does this.
Hey guys,
Is there a way of slowing the tempo of the step sequencer in Logic’s Ultrabeat? I’ve figured out how to change the time signature by manipulating the length and resolution, but the sequencer moves a bit faster than I’d like through my pattern.
Thanks,
Mike
Hi Mike,
Is it synched to the global tempo?
It doesn’t appear so..how would I synch it?
Hey Damon,
I figured out the tempo situation…I just trimmed the resolution back to 1/8, which shortened the bars and slowed the tempo, but still allowed for 3/4 time. I still don’t know how to synch it to global tempo which may present problems in the future.
Also, I noticed that any time I record a live instrument (as opposed to MIDI), Logic saves that as an aif file. Is there a specific place I should be saving these projects/tracks? I do not currently have an external hard drive.
Thanks.
I would just have a folder next to the project file for all the audio. Makes it easy.
As far as the whole project save, just keep it organized in one place, so that when you do transfer to an external, it will be quick and easy.
Hey Guys,
I just bought Reason 4 and the Abbey Road Keyboards Refill–I am not too fluent when it comes to the technical computer language of specs, etc. But I just wanted to make sure my computer can handle the processing demands of both programs. I have heard that my Mac 8 core will be able to handle pretty much anything thrown at it, but I would like to avoid catastrophe due to my lack of experience/knowledge.
So with this said, will loading Reason 4 and the 24 bit Abbey Road Refill on my machine to use in conjunction with my Logic Pro software be cause for problems?
Thanks for the input!
Mike–
Might depend on RAM. What are you packin’?
Should be fine though. The 8-cores are shipping with a 2G minimum.
D (still heavy)
Hey Damon,
I’m pretty sure my mac is running on at least 2G of RAM.
Hey Guys,
I just bought a Maxtor One Touch 500GB external harddrive–it is firewire/mac capable. Was this a good buy in your opinion? The price was good and I know I will need it as I do not want to bog my DAW down with all of my project files. By the way, the reason and 24 bit Abbey Road Keyboards refill work great! The combo of the two is incredible–the only problem is that I can’t stop playing around and making noise long enough to get some work done…
Hi Mike,
Don’t know how much you paid for it, but you can use that drive for a lot of stuff. Especially at FW800 it can be used as a multitrack recording disk. Do you have a second internal SATA drive in your 8-core? That’s a good, cheap investment as well.
Glad to hear you like the keyboards refill!
DS
I paid $120 for it. Not sure if I have a second SATA drive. How much do they run?
About $85 for a Western Digital at newegg. Amazingly easy to install in the mac tower as well.
Hey Guys,
Could you do a tutorial on drum sequencing at some point? For those of us who do not have access to a kit, it would be helpful. I use any combination of redrum, the logic drum machine, and dr. rex. I would like to be more knowledgeable than simply creating a beat that loops over and over–I would like to build in breaks, etc.
Just a thought. Thanks for the great site!
I made 2 ( so far ) of the gobos shown, only 2×4 instead of 2×6. They turned out great, only I will need at least one more to surround my piano. Any plans for one with a window? I saw the google sketch, but wanted some more advice. These things are heavy! Ill send pics bc these are more portable and can go sideways or up and down, so I made a seperate stand that works well. fun and easy build.
Would be great to see some videos / or just an article about the editing process (for drums, gtrs, vocals, etc). What can ben done, what should’t be done, etc.
^^Good suggestion Dakoom. If you check our studio page (or do a search on this site), there are a few videos on basic editing, but we definitely have room to go more in depth.
We’ll try to get on it! Thanks.
I’ve been recording students lessons using Garageband 09 version 5.1 on a white macbook OS 10.6.4 and I’ve always opened files that were in the recently opened list but last night I was doing a lot of editing; I was trying to send a band rehearsal out and decided to cut it up into individual songs because the 82MB file size when I discovered I couldn’t open my garageband files that are in the Garageband folder from within Garageband. They are all grayed out – but when I use spotlight and locate outside of Garageband even though Garageband is open they are accessible.
Seems like a work around or is it just me. Shouldn’t you be able to open your files from within the program?
Not urgent but I thought I’d ask you guys to see if you could enlighten me.
Thank you for this Great site and any info you can pass my way.
T