Just getting started - i know nothing!

[amyjane]

Hello! Im a brand new member and am desparately looking for home recording software and general advice but am embarassingly unknowledgable about all of this!

I have recorded in a few professional studios before but am really after getting a home recording thing going to record songs as i write them rather than waiting for a load to be finished and heading down to the studio!

Tracks are mostly piano and vocal, although i would really like to have samples of other instruments to play around (notably strings and percussion) with so a programme with a good library of instruments and sounds. I have a new toshiba laptop and a fairly old microphone but nothing else.

Although I appreciate that any programme is a bit tricky to learn etc, I am after a fairly simple one, otherwise I know it just wont work for me - i had a four track tape recorder when i was 14 and it was a nightmare! I just gave up in the end. Im obviously not that technical at all so would appreciate one that was easy to use.

Im afraid I dont know anything i should know really, like what MIDI sequencers are, or what an 'effects format' is. Never heard of VST, DX or RTAS! So I am basically lacking any knowledge in anything, and don't know anyone at all i can speak to who would know anything or be able to recommend anything.

If anyone has any tips/recommendations/advice on what programmes to get (and which ones are compatible with my computer), other things i might need (microphones etc) i would be hugely grateful. From a very quick read of some reviews, i quite like the look of AMbleton live (apparently has a good library of samples) and TRraction 3 for its simplicity.

Apologies for vagueness and general ignorance!

Many thanks in advance

[amyjane]

Sorry, I should add that i have a Roland digital piano as well. Thanks!

[brandondrury]

Hello amyjane, and welcome to the forum.

I'd start out by reading the guide in my signature:
Starting Your Own Home Recording Studio

That will get you started with the basics. Then, check out the Beginner section of the Home Recording Soundcard Wizard (also in my signature).

From there, you can ask more specific questions.
Brandon