Total Beginner Needs Guiding Hand, Help for beginner Options

[russellthemessia...]

Hello all.

I am new both to Mac Music and making music on a Mac (or any other PC). I have absolutely no idea as to how audio setups work, MIDI interfaces, preamps etc. I once naively believed I could just plug my guitar into my computer; that gives you an idea of the level of ineptitude I display. BUT, I am willing to learn so, any plain English explanations of how best to go about recording my voice, my guitar and keyboards (yet to be bought but willing to spend some cash) would be much appreciated. I must make it clear that I fully intend to buy Logic Express 6... other than that, I am a little lost. I do not intend to spend more than £350 after having bought Logic... Many thanks in advance for your time.

[kaboombahchuck]

OK, if I was just starting out, and new what I know... Here is what I'd do.

Russ,,
Get yourself a decent midi controller keyboard that uses USB for a connection to the Mac.... yes it is a keybord, that can be either volosity sincitive, or a weighted feel. With the instruments that should come with Logic, and what there is out on the web (sound fonts) there is no limit to what you will be able to do. I could go on about all that you will be able to do, but it would take forever.
As far as audio goes.. depends on it your laptop as an audio in port (1/8" stereo) or not..
If it does have an adio in port, get yourself a decent mixer (Alesis, or Behringer). Generally if you go this way you will not need any pre amps, and alot of the small mixer come with built in effects. They come with 48 volt "fantom power" so you will be able to go with either a cartoid mic or a condincer mic, no problem. Plug the guitar into the mixer, and what ever else you want. The problem with going this way is you can only record 2 tracs symiltainiously.

If not you will need to get an external audio infterface. Fire wire interfaces (like the MOTU 828) are your best bet, but at almost a grand for one of those you might want to check out the USB interfaces. Some of the interfaces some with fantom power for the mics. They are also usually portable. The draw backs are.. the prices for a desent interface is still a bit pricey, the mixer control is done using sliders and nobs on the computer screen (I prefer real slider and nobs, switches, lights... the more the better).

If your laptop maxes out a 512, then that's the best your gonna get, if not then max the ram.

John,
Same for you..
I have not heard much good about the iMic's..
Another midi controller you might want to check would be Oxygen 8 (M-Audio... I think),