O.K. first off, I have two artists that need to record their vocals over some mp3 instrumentals ASAP. Is there any way to do this inexpensively? That's my short term issue. Secondly, since I've just begun working with artists, I was wondering if anyone can offer some good advice regarding home studio set ups. I don't need to make a top of the line studio, but I would like to make some excellent demos that consist of original music. No samples, instrumentals, etc. I currently own the PowerMac G4, and that's it. If anyone can provide a brief list of what they would add on to that, I would appreciate it. My budget is open for "smart" upgrades. I don't know if all I need is some software and a mic. Or do I need beat machines, samplers, etc. Thanks for the help

Lots of "getting started" info on this here site, either by searching the forums or by reading about software releases.

If all you want to do is record voice over mp3, you'll need a very basic sequencer (Logic, Cubase SL, Melodyne 2 Cre8 Edition, Live 3, Pro Tools Free, Metro SE, plus others that I'm probably forgetting) to capture and arrange the vocals.

You'll also need an interface for getting your signal into your Mac, unless you have a line in on your PowerMac and are happy with the rudimentary sound quality (comparitively speaking).

There are as many interface options as there are software - again, scout about and absorb the discussions.

As a brief list, I have a MOTU 828 and Logic 6 Platinum as my core studio, with lots of other software instruments and sound editing tools loaded alongside. That allows me to happily track one or two instruments at a time, monitoring the song while recording and building the track up gradually.

Any more questions, feel free to ask.