Newbie Bedroom Dj/producer Question Options

[puma]

I'm new to the site and have been learning a tremendous amount of info from all of you so far. Thank you!

I've just embarked on setting up a home studio in which I will be able to mix both vinyl and digital files. While I have purchased some good MkIII's, a mixer and monitors, I have not purchased the hardware/software need for mixing my digital files.

I have been a PC user for about 10 years and do not consider myself to be too much of a techie. So....I guess what I'm saying is that I don't want to get in too far over my head when it comes to the hardware/software side.

My interests lie in mixing house, prog & tech house, and funky and tribal trance...and creating my own music through software. So...with that being said, what should I consider as viable options to complete my set-up? I'd like to invest in something that isn't too limited and will allow me to grow, but not too advanced at the same time. I guess I'd like to set a budget of around $2500 or less. Is that doable? Thanks in advance for all of your suggestions!

Puma

[don says mac]

Welcome Puma...

uh... $2500 (USD I imagine) is quite a good chunk of change especially if you're just starting out...

What you need is:

$300 - $400 for a good audio interface (hooking up your tables to your computer)... I recommend Firewire, but stick to a PCI if more budget conscious... Check out Presonus, Edirol, M-Audio, & Echo... If you think that you will never use any anolgue instruments other than your turntables (i.e. micorphone, guitar, bass etc..) then you can get pretty cheap & basic, like an iMIC ($50 I think).

$100 - $300 for a good USB/MIDI keyboard... M-Audio makes some great ones too, all different sizes for your budget & necessities.

From there, the rest can be invested into your Mac (& extra RAM)... Personally, I'd start out with GarageBand as your first piece of software, since it comes free with any new machine. It's a pretty thick program & very simple to use, and it's free. You can record into it as well as create your own beats & tracks & honestly it sounds pretty damn good.

Propellerhead's Reason is amazing for elctronic music. I use it myself. I've also heard nothing but good things about Native Instruments too. Reason is about $400 or so. But like I said, Garageband will get you started with everything you need, and when you've outgrown it there are plenty of options.

Good Luck!!

.d.