New to Mac Music...making a list Options

[bnun]

I've recently purchased an iMac G3 and I would like to start recording my own music. I won't be doing much MIDI stuff. I'll mainly be recording guitar, percussion, vocals through a Shure SM57. I've read a few of the posts around here, but I still need a little clarification about what all I'll need. I'm not looking to go all out, I'm trying to start small.

I've ordered the Pro Tools Free CD, so I'm assuming that will take care of my short-term needs for an application (8 audio tracks should be fine for now). So, now I think I just need a way to get sound into my iMac. I've got 2 ideas as to what might work, so please let me know if I'm way off base.

1. Behringer Mixer - http://www.musiciansfriend.com/ex/shop/rec...1661?pid=631222
This is a little 6 channel mixer. I have seen the iMic, but I wonder if I could run the Mixer into the iMac via the iMic? Could anyone that has experience with this please help?

2. M-Audio Quattro - This is a little more expensive, but from what I understand, I'll can just run my mics into the Quattro and it will hook straight into my USB?

I greatly appreciate any help you folks can give.

Thanks,
Brandon

[Torrent]

I would stay away from USB audio while using Pro Tools. Pro Tools Free does not support any USB hardware and I have read about many USB sound input recording problems with Pro Tools and hardware like the iMic. Until Pro Tools creates a free version that is more hardware friendly, use your analog input, if you have one (which I think iMacs do).

With a basic mixer and a 1/8' stereo jack to 1/4' jack cord tying the mixer and computer together, you will be set. From what I have heard, the key thing that the mixer can do that the M-audio quattro can't is adjust the line/mic levels. This is very important if you want to plug your guitar or mic in directly.

I recommend looking at the DigiDesign users conference on the support page at digidesign.com to find out specific details about issues with Pro Tools, as you will most likely have a few starting up.

If at a later date you decide to expand your recording system by using a sequencer like Logic, Cubase, Digital Performer, etc., USB and/or Firewire options are available.