M-Audio Fast Track Pro

[net0638]

Guys,

I just bought this device:

M-AUDIO - Fast Track Pro - 4 x 4 Mobile USB Audio/MIDI Interface with Preamps

Its fun and works good but I want to involve other devices and friends. For example, my recordings are good if I am the only one there singing and playing the guitar as there is 2 plugins for the both on the front of the audio interface. However, I want my friend to be able to record in also with his guitar and his voice. Based on the device and what I just told you. How can I get more dedicated devices and voices in on the recording without buying a audio interface with more plugins. When I mention plugins I think the terminalogy is preamps(im a newbie) If you look at the link you will see them on the front and understand.

1. Do I buy a mixers to get more voices and devices in on the recording?
2. No way to do it without buying another audio interface with more preamps?

Please help!!!!

[savesilence]

There are two things you can do. The first is to buy an analog mixer that will mix you and your friend down to stereo, and plug that output into your interface. The problem here is that you will have no ability to mix or edit the tracks after they are on your computer.

The more advisable solution would be to indeed buy a new interface. This won't cost you much more than a mixer anyways, and you will be able to mix and edit your tracks in the computer. You can use the soundcard wizard on this site, or just shop around for an interface with more preamps.

Russ

[net0638]

Thanks Russ. Note taken.........This interface cost 190$$$$$

ugh!

[savesilence]

You aren't out of luck yet. Just because you buy a new one doesn't mean you have to ditch the old one. Especially if you are using a mac, it's quite easy to create an aggregate audio interface, and use both at once for even more inputs.

Russ

[net0638]

A Windows PC cant do that?

I took a look at the sound card wizard. I ran though it and was impressed. It recommended me a audio interface that had 8 inputs. The one I bought today is only 100 dollars less and has only 2 inputs

[savesilence]

They usually come in 2, 4, or 8 preamp designs. I'd go for an 8 and save yourself from having to buy yet another. I can't speak for a PC. It is probably handled by the program, whereas on a Mac, the audio is done in the operating system, and works for all programs. So depending on what you use, you may or may not be able to do that.

Russ

[net0638]

Russ,
what does it mean to "mix down to stereo"

I.E. The first is to buy an analog mixer that will mix you and your friend down to stereo, and plug that output into your interface.

[savesilence]

That means that you will connect all your inputs to the mixer. You will then adjust the levels and EQ on the mixer itself, and it will then take that result, and put it out through 2 outputs in stereo. You'd plug those into your interface, and they would be recorded to your computer. Essentially, you do your mixing before you record instead of after.

Russ