Microphone Preamp Mac
Microphone Preamp Mac
 |
 Sennheiser EW112P G3 Wireless Lav Camera System G Band Zoom H4n Recorder  US $699.00
|
 Sennheiser EW112P G3 Wireless Lav Camera System A Band Zoom H4n Recorder US $699.00
|
 Sennheiser MKH 416 Short Shotgun Interference Tube Mic w Zoom H4n XLR Cable US $999.95
|
 MXL 990 USB CONDENSER MIC NR 14 DAY RETURN US $109.00
|
 MXL 990 USB Powered Condenser Microphone US $99.99
|
 Samson Airline Micro Wireless Camera Lav Mic SystemN6 Band Zoom H4n Recorder US $449.00
|
 Sennheiser EW 112P EW112P G3 Wireless Lav Mic G Band w Tascam DR 40 US $659.00
|
 Sennheiser EW122P G3 EW122 P Wireless Lav Mic G Band w Zoom H4n US $699.00
|
 Sennheiser EW100ENG G3 Camera Wireless Mic Kit A Band w Zoom H4n Recorder US $899.00
|
 Behringer C 1U USB Condenser Studio Microphone With Large Diaphragm US $54.99
|
 Sennheiser EW 112P EW112P G3 Wireless Lav Mic A Band w Tascam DR 40 US $659.00
|
 Blue Microphone Spark Condenser Mic Icicle USB Adapter NEW XLR to USB US $249.00
|
 NEW BEHRINGER C1U USB CONDENSER MICROPHONE MIC AUTHORIZED DEALER US $54.99
|
 New MXL USB Mic Mate Pro Microphone Mic Adapter w Gain US $99.00
|
 Audio Technica AT2020 Condenser Microphone w Blue Icicle USB Mic Preamp US $115.00
|
 HOME RECORDING STUDIO USB MICROPHONE PODCAST VOCALS PC US $165.00
|
 MXL USB006 USB Cardioid Condenser Mic w Stand Case US $99.99
|
 MXL 990 USB Powered Condenser Microphone Regular 886830328336 US $75.00
|
 OSP USB Dynamic Cardiod Microphone Pod Casting US $69.99
|
 MXL USB Mic Mate Classic US $49.99
|
 Marshall MXL Mic Mate Dynamic USB Interface PreAmp New US $55.00
|
 Marshall Electronics MXLUSB006 Cardioid Condenser USB Mic Kit US $120.40
|
 Behringer Podcast Studio USB US $129.99
|
![New MXL USBMic Mate Classic Universal Studio Microphone USB Interface 3531]](http://www.paleroom.com/images/e/380441673853_0.jpg) New MXL USBMic Mate Classic Universal Studio Microphone USB Interface 3531] US $57.99
|
 NEW Avalon 737 BLACK 10th Aniversary AKG 414 wow US $4,400.00
|
 IK Multimedia ARC Advanced Room Correction System Plugin Microphone Mac PC US $199.00
|
 MXL MXL 990 USB Powered Condenser Microphone US $149.99
|
 AKG C 414 C414 XLII ST Condenser Microphones Stereo Set w Zoom H4n XLR Cables US $2,199.00
|
 ART Voice Channel VOICECHANNEL PROAUDIOSTAR US $359.00
|
 UNIVERSAL AUDIO LA 610 WOW THESE ARE DOPE US $1,500.00
|
 BEHRINGER USB Condenser Microphone C 1U MAKE OFFER US $87.77
|
 TC Helicon VoiceWorks Mic Preamp w Vocal Harmony Effects Pitch Correction US $349.00
|
 ART Tube MP Project Series w USB Tube Mic Preamp w Limiter and Selectable US $99.00
|
 Avalon 737 Neumann U87ai Z Set wow US $4,500.00
|
 Millennia Media HV 3R Preamplifier 3 300KHZ US $4,993.99
|
 Zoom H4N Handy Recorder US $299.99
|
 SAMSON Q1U DYNAMIC USB MIC MICROPHONE BRAND NEW US $78.56
|
 BEHRINGER USB MIC PACK 3 C 1U RECORD HOME LIVE STUDIO PODCAST $10 INSTANT OFF US $169.99
|
 Roland MMP2 Mic Modeling 2 Channel Preamp EQ Compressor Everything Included US $129.99
|
 OSP USB Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone Pod Cast US $99.99
|
 CAD GXL2400 USB Mic Set Cable Stand Filter Blue Icicle US $154.99
|
 CAD GXL2400 USB Mic Set Cable JamStands Filter Blue Icicle US $144.99
|
 ART Voice Channel Tube Channel Strip w Dig US $399.00
|
 TC Helicon VoiceTone Synth Microphone Preamp and Effects Box for Singers US $299.00
|
 Samson Q1U Dynamic USB Microphone US $49.99
|
 Focusrite OctoPre MkII Authorized Dealer EXTREMEPROSOUND MIAMI US $499.99
|
 ART USB Phono Plus v2 Phono PreAmp with USB MSRP $129 AUTHORIZED DEALER US $99.00
|
 Marshall MXL USB 006 Condenser Microphone Studio Mic US $99.00
|
 Marshall MicMate Pro XLR USB Mic Adapter US $69.99
|
 NEW Blue Microphones Icicle XLR to USB Mic Converter Mic Preamp US $62.29
|
|
|
Blue Icicle XLR to USB Mic Converter/Mic Preamp $59 The Icicle XLR to USB Converter/Mic Preamp lets you easily connect your favorite microphone directly to your Mac or PC. The Blue Icicle performs dual functions as an XLR to USB adapter and a studio-quality microphone preamp. It features an analog gain control and also provides 48V phantom power for condenser microphones. The Icicle converter and preamp is the quick and easy way to perform digital recording, podcasting, and voice messaging. Includes 6-ft USB cable |
|
|
Blue Icicle Xlr To Usb Mic Converter/Mic Preamp $59 The Icicle XLR to USB Converter/Mic Preamp lets you easily connect your favorite microphone directly to your Mac or PC. The Blue Icicle performs dual functions as an XLR to USB adapter and a studio-quality microphone preamp. It features an analog gain control and also provides 48V phantom power for condenser microphones. The Icicle converter and preamp is the quick and easy way to perform digital recording, podcasting, and voice messaging. Includes 6-ft USB cableWorks with Mac or PC computersNo Special Drivers RequiredStudio Quality USB microphone preampSupplies 48V phantom power for . condenser microphonesPhantom power active lightFully balanced low noise analog front endAnalog gain control |
|
|
Avalon V5 Microphone Preamp $1080 The Avalon V5 follows the tradition of the U5 DI box, which has been in continuous production since 1995 and is used by leading music professionals in both studio and live sound reinforcement applications.The Avalon V5 introduces a new generation of this tried and true idea, loaded with professional features including a low noise, high-gain, Pure Class A, microphone preamplifier, and a 10 mega ohm instrument DI input with zero impedance loading and a +36dB maximum input capability for active preamp-line sources like acoustic and electric guitars, bass, keyboards and synthesizers.A transformer-isolated reamping output offers multiple input-output configurations with all inputs available, including polarity reverse. Sealed silver relays provide transparent signal path routing while custom, ultra-high performance rotary switches deliver smooth gain control in accurate 2dB steps.A unique passive tone selector allows ten contours (six from the U5 tone bank) including two passive high pass filters and two vocal-instrument enhanced passive air-lift low frequency curves.Additional features include a passive low pass hiss & buzz filter, a wide range, professional analog VU meter with expanded scale -30dB to +18dB with twin peak LEDs for fast signal capture.The Avalon V5 has a truly unique feature set utilizing 100% discrete, DC coupled, Pure Class A amplifiers for Deep and Controlled Bass together with a Musical Midrange for enhanced Vocal and Instrument resolution. With reamping options, the passive TONESHAPING network and multiple output choices the Avalon V5 will continues Avalons passion and commitment to sonic excellence.Pure Class A, 100% discrete designSmooth musical detail and sonic excellenceVariable gain preamp to +30dB.Dual microphone and line outputsHi-Z 3,000,000 ohm input impedanceVery low noise -100dBHigh headroom +30dBSix tone bank selections.DC coupled Class A output for superior bassHigh cut switch eliminates noiseLED active signal indicatorHeadphone monitor output jackLow distortion less than 0.5% THD and IMDHigh level 400 watt speaker inputActive to thru selector - ground isolation switch100% discrete power supplies for audio pathInternal toroidal power supply for low noiseLong lasting, stainless steel hardware |
|
|
Blue ROBBIE Tube Microphone Preamp $799 Elegance and simplicity are the driving forces behind Blue's design philosophy, and the ROBBIE tube premap is no exception. This Class-A discrete tube microphone and instrument preamp features the same technical build quality and commitment to excellence for which Blue is known. Yields excellent detail with extremely low noise and ultrahigh gain. The warm, robust tube gain stage is the perfect enhancement for condenser microphones. Frequency response is 10Hz to 100kHz, ±2dB. |
|
|
Blue Robbie Tube Microphone Preamp $799 Elegance and simplicity are the driving forces behind Blue's design philosophy, and the ROBBIE tube premap is no exception. This Class-A discrete tube microphone and instrument preamp features the same technical build quality and commitment to excellence for which Blue is known. Yields excellent detail with extremely low noise and ultrahigh gain. The warm, robust tube gain stage is the perfect enhancement for condenser microphones. Frequency response is 10Hz to 100kHz, 2dB. Class-A single-channel discrete tube microphone and instrument preamplifierDiscrete, balanced components from input to outputSimple designFront panel features a large backlit gain knob and Hi-Z 1/4" instrument input Inputs: one XLR microphone, one 1/4" TS phone instrumentOutput: one XLR linePhantom power |
|
|
Apogee Mic Usb Microphone For Ipad, Iphone And Mac $199 MiC by Apogee is a super-compact studio quality USB microphone for use with iPad, iPhone and Mac. About the size of an iPhone, MiC makes it easy to capture your best take with incredible quality, anywhere your music takes you. Record any sound you can imagine, from vocals to vibraphones, acoustic to lap steel guitars, pianos to percussion and everything in between, and build a track right on your iPad with GarageBand. MiC is also the perfect companion to JAM, Apogees studio quality guitar input. Never before has the personal studio been so portable or so powerful.PureDIGITAL technology delivers pristine sound qualityMiC is a premium digital converter featuring PureDIGITAL technology, which delivers your voice, or acoustic instruments true tone to your iPad, iPhone or Mac without compromise. You will notice the amazing sonic qualities of MiC the instant you press record.Is this thing on? Status and level indicationIts easy to tell if MiC is connected properly by the status LED on the front of MiC. If its green, you are ready to record and the light becomes your input level indicator. If it turns red, you are rockin' the MiC too hard and need to turn your level down with the input gain control knob.Check 1, 2... dial it in with easy level controlMiC features an input gain control knob. This rotary style wheel is conveniently located on the side of MiC for easy thumb access. With the level indication LED as your guide, the gain control knob allows you to fine tune for the perfect level without having to look at software.PureDIGITAL connection for pristine sound qualityStudio quality cardioid condenser microphone44.1/48 kHz, 24-bit analog-to-digital conversionStudio quality microphone preamp with up to 40dB of gainControl knob allows easy input level adjustmentMulticolor LED for status indication and input level monitoringDesigned for vocal and acoustic instrument recordingAlso great for recording interviews, podcasts, voice overs, and audio for DSLR videoAll metal constructionExtremely compact and portableWorks with GarageBandBus-powered by iPad, iPhone or Mac (no batteries or external power required) |
|
|
Nady DMP-2 Dual Microphone Preamp $69.99 The Nady DMP-2 dual channel mic preamp works with any professional microphone and provides ultralow noise, superb transient response and transparent, distortion-free performance that is substantially better than that of stock console preamps. Includes XLR I/O jacks, Power OFF/ON/+48V Phantom Power 3-way switch, selectable integrated limiter, dual Gain controls, Power ON and dual Peak LED indicators. Rugged, lightweight, all-metal enclosure designed for maximum long life and optimum portability. Powered by 9V alkaline or NiMH battery. |
|
|
Used Presonus Tubepre Microphone Preamp $71.89 The PreSonus TubePRE Microphone Preamp lets you add character to your signal by varying the amount of gain and tube drive. A 12AX7 tube in this single-channel mic preamp fattens your signal while dual-servo gain stages let you simultaneously output to your amp and console. Sterling specs include 10Hz-80kHz frequency response, a 94dB noise floor, and >90dB S/N ratio. Capacitor-free circuitry and wide dynamic control give you a big boost without noise. Includes 48V phantom power, phase reverse, 20dB pad, and 80Hz rumble filter. A large VU meter with a cool blue backlight keeps you informed. Balanced/unbalanced and XLR I/O give the PreSonus TubePRE flexibility. Great as a studio direct box.12AX7 and dual-servo gain stagesCapacitor-free gain stage for maximum fidelity and low noiseXLR mic and high-Z instrument inputs on back panelXLR (balanced) and 1/4" (unbalanced) outputs on back panelSupports dual output of signal10Hz-80kHz frequency response>90dB S/N ratio94dB noise floorVariable gain and tube driveGain: 3dB to +48dBTube drive: 0dB to +20dB48V phantom power-20dB pad and polarity reverse80Hz rumble filterLarge VU meter with blue backlightExternal wallmount power transformerRackmountable with optional adapter |
|
|
Applied Microphone Technology Z1 Clip On Condenser Flute Microphone with Preamp - Regular $569 The AMT Z1 is a hardwired single microphone made for flute. The Z1 mic is the perfect choice from soft to louder playing applications. It can be used for featured soloist to miking a section of flutes. The AMT Z1 single microphone gets the most gain before feedback. The system comes with the microphone, special low mass flute clamp and preamp. The preamp uses the chip technology which contours the microphone for the most natural reproduction of sound possible. Perfect for all situations.Requires phantom power. |
|
|
Nady Dmp-2 Dual Microphone Preamp $69.99 The Nady DMP-2 dual channel mic preamp works with any professional microphone and provides ultralow noise, superb transient response and transparent, distortion-free performance that is substantially better than that of stock console preamps. Includes XLR I/O jacks, Power OFF/ON/+48V Phantom Power 3-way switch, selectable integrated limiter, dual Gain controls, Power ON and dual Peak LED indicators. Rugged, lightweight, all-metal enclosure designed for maximum long life and optimum portability. Powered by 9V alkaline or NiMH battery. Ultra low-noise performance XLR I/O jacks, +48V phantom power 3-way switch Selectable integrated limiter Dual Gain controls Power ON and dual Peak LED indicators 9V alkaline or NiMH battery powered |
|
|
Grace Design M201 Microphone Preamp $2375 The Grace Design m201 Microphone Preamp delivers unmatched audio performance, with massive headroom, ultra-wide bandwidth and a very open, musical character. The signal path has been hot-rodded to be fully balanced from start to finish, resulting in a wider dynamic range, while high-current output drivers enable even longer cable runs without signal loss. The rackmountable m201 mic preamp translates a sonic picture of astonishing clarity and detail, which serves to capture the essential character of the music being recorded.A ribbon mic mode is now included, which shifts the gain range up 10dB while deactivating 48V phantom power, bypassing the decoupling capacitors and optimizing the input impedance. Each channel has an 'input mode' rotary switch which selects between a standard 48V phantom input, ribbon mic mode, a front panel DI input or optional DPA high voltage inputs (130V or 190V). Included is a M + S (mid side) decoder circuitry with a built-in width control. The front panel width control is wired with a precision 12 position rotary switch which provides a range from 100% mid (mono) to 30% mid / 70% side. The ultra-precision summing and difference amplifiers feed a set of dedicated outputs, which allows simultaneous recording of discrete mid and side signals as well as the stereo matrix.The front panel mounted HI-Z inputs are designed to accommodate a wide variety of high impedance input sources, making the m201 preamplifier an excellent choice as a DI box which will flawlessly preserve the sound of any plugged-in instrument. Imagine the same resolution and detail as Grace Design microphone preamplifiers available for DI recording situations. Additionally, Grace Design will be offering the m201 with a state-of-the-art 24-bit/192kHz A/D converter option (retrofitable), rounding the m201 off as the ultimate transparent input solution for any recording facility.(Sold separately)Redesigned, fully balanced, transformerless designDual parallel XLR outputs for each channelRibbon mic modeFront panel DI / instrument inputsDPA microphones 130V (190V) phantom power optionBuilt in M+S decoder with dedicated outputs and front panel width controlOptional reference quality 24-bit/192 kHz A/D converter section available late 2007Precision 24 position gold contact rotary switch gain controlsHigher current outputs drive even longer cable runsNo electrolytic capacitors in the signal pathSealed gold contact relays for all signal switchingLarge two color, bi-phase LED peak indicatorRegulated linear power supply with custom wound toroidal transformerHighest quality components used throughoutFive year warranty on parts and labor |
|
|
Grace Design M101 Microphone Preamp $685 In 2000, the Grace Design model 101 microphone preamp helped fuel a revolution. When people took professional recording into their own hands, it was there with all of the quality and performance of a high-end mic preamplifier, but with a price that made it available to the masses. Eight years later, and the cause moves forward with the newly redesigned m101 preamp.Maintaining Grace Design pedigree throughout, the m101 employs balanced, transformerless, transimpedance circuit topology. With incredible bandwidth and headroom, the m101 is natural, musical and detailed, allowing engineers and musicians to consistently record vibrant, amazing tracks.The m101 is equipped with a redesigned universal switching power supply that's dead quiet and accepts input voltages from 100 to 240V AC. The front panel is a tough black anodized/laser etched black, which ensures legibility and usability in varying light conditions. And all preamp functions have a dedicated indicator LED, including the 48V phantom power and HPF switch.Built in as standard is Grace's unique Ribbon Mic Mode, which bypasses the input decoupling capacitors, raises the input impedance from 8.1k to 20k, and defeats the 48V phantom power, preventing damage to delicate ribbon mic elements. Ribbon mics, you're welcome.The gain range is 10-75dB, including the additional +10dB of gain available with the output trim control. This provides ample gain for use of any type of microphone in any recording situation. The gain control is a precision gold-plated, 12-position switch, and the circuit path is built with 0.5% metal film resistors.Included is a HI-Z input on the front panel. Rear panel I/O options include both balanced TRS and unbalanced TS 1/4" outputs, along with the standard XLR balanced out and XLR microphone in.Equally at home amplifying a vintage condenser mic or a plugged-in acoustic guitar, the m101 delivers the kind of high fidelity performance previously available only to big budget recording studios and Grammy winning musicians. Add it all up while considering that the price is unmatched and the picture becomes pretty clear the m101 is one little hot rod piece of pro audio gear for everyone from home recording enthusiast to top professional.Note: For a truly outstanding sound and value, we suggest using the Grace m1011 with the CAD e300 condenser mic (see (#271261) for amazingly clear and detailed, yet warm-sounding vocals.Fast and musical transimpedance architectureUpdated audio path with 0.5% precision metal film resistorsNew 12 position gold-plated rotary gain switchHigh performance output line driver amplifier and HPF amplifierRibbon mic mode (also great for dynamic mics)- Relay bypass of phantom power decoupling capacitors, increased input impedance, and 48V lockoutWider 10-75dB gain rangeEnhanced RFI interference suppressionThree output connectors: XLR balanced, TRS balanced and 1/4" unbalancedBombproof laser-etched black anodized front panelSealed gold contact relay for Hi-Z i |
|
|
Applied Microphone Technology Z1 Clip On Condenser Flute Microphone With Preamp - Regular $569 The AMT Z1 is a hardwired single microphone made for flute. The Z1 mic is the perfect choice from soft to louder playing applications. It can be used for featured soloist to miking a section of flutes. The AMT Z1 single microphone gets the most gain before feedback. The system comes with the microphone, special low mass flute clamp and preamp. The preamp uses the chip technology which contours the microphone for the most natural reproduction of sound possible. Perfect for all situations.Requires phantom power.AMT Z1 MicrophoneBelt-pack Preamp1/4 to XLR CableHard shell Blo-mold protective case |
|
|
Shadow SH EC22 Preamp with Undersaddle Pickup and Microphone $215.2 The Shadow SH EC22 Preamp is designed for sonic clarity, ease of installation and preservation of your acoustic guitar. The Shadow Preamp only touches your guitar in two spots: the rubber coated clip which slides over the edge of the sound hole and a Velcro pad under the soundboard. |
 |
Blue Microphones Icicle XLR to USB Mic Converter/Mic Preamp List Price: $59.00 Sale Price: Too low to display Used From: $47.89  |
|
The Icicle is Blue's new stylish USB converter and mic preamp combo that allows you to connect any XLR microphone directly into your computer via USB. The Icicle features a studio quality microphone preamp, 48V phantom power, fully balanced low noise front end, analog gain control, and driverless operation... |
 |
Blue Microphones Yeti Pro USB Condenser Microphone, Multipattern. List Price: $249.00 Sale Price: Too low to display Used From: $186.75 |
|
The Yeti Pro is the world’s first USB microphone combining 24 bit/192 kHz digital recording resolution with analog XLR output.Featuring three custom condenser capsules and four different pattern settings, the Yeti Pro can capture digital audio with up to fourtimes the clarity found on CDs... |
 |
MXL MICMATEC XLR To USB Preamp for Condenser Microphones List Price: $79.95 Sale Price: Too low to display Used From: $24.00 |
|
This pocket-sized device features a 16-bit Delta Sigma A/D converter with a sampling rate of 44.1 and 48.0 kHz. The Mic Mate™ also provides 48V Phantom power to condenser mics directly from your computer's USB port. |
 |
Griffin Technology iMic USB Audio Device List Price: $39.99 Sale Price: Too low to display |
|
The Griffin Technology 9066-IMIC2 iMic/USB Audio Interface, the original USB audio adapter, lets you connect virtually any microphone or sound input device to any Mac or PC system with a USB port. iMic supports both mic and line level inputs via a selectable switch, and has a variable level output for connecting speakers or headphones... |
 |
ART Tube MP USB Project Series Tube Microphone Preamp With USB List Price: $129.00 Sale Price: $83.99 Used From: $74.95 |
|
The Tube MP Project Series is a professional quality audio interface that lets you connect microphone, instrument, and line level signals to audio inputs to digital audio workstations as well as standard analog devices... |
 |
Zoom H4n Handy Portable Digital Recorder List Price: $609.99 Sale Price: $286.00 Used From: $239.99 |
|
Zoom H4n is the most sophisticated portable handheld recorder with new features and improved user experience at every level. Among its many new features, Zoom’s H4n offers superior, built-in X/Y stereo condenser mics that allow variable recording patterns at either 90° or 120°... |
 |
MXL Studio1-USB USB Desktop Recording Kit List Price: $129.95 Sale Price: $99.95 |
|
Enjoy professional quality recordings of vocals and instruments saved directly to your computer with the MXL Studio 1 USB microphone. Offering easy plug-and-play usability with both PC and Mac, the portable Studio 1 condenser mic is a great choice for musicians, vocalists, podcasters, internet radio, digital music, voice-over recordings and sound effects... |
 |
PreSonus Tubepre Single-Channel Vacuum Tube Mic Pre List Price: $129.95 Sale Price: $99.00 Used From: $59.99 |
|
The TubePRE is the highest quality vacuum tube preamp in its class. Loaded with PreSonus award winning dual servo preamplifier, the TubePre affordably delivers low noise tube warmth for vocals, guitars, bass guitars, synths and sound modules... |
 |
MXL 990 USB Powered Condenser Microphone List Price: $249.99 Sale Price: $99.99 Used From: $99.98 |
|
MXL 990 USB powered microphone opens up a new era of high quality recording direct to your portable or desktop computer. No mixers, preamps, or special studio gear required. Just plug the MXL 990 mic into your computer, set your preferences, and enjoy instant professional quality recordings... |
 |
HDE (TM) Mini 3.5mm Voice Microphone for PC Laptop Skype List Price: $9.99 Sale Price: $0.42 |
|
This is an ultra-portable Mini Microphone. It uses a standard 3.5mm jack, and is Plug and Play: no software to install! It's an excellent addition to your laptop or notebook setup, & is suitable for internet telephony applications like VOIP or Skype... |
Making Music With Your Computer
Computer based home recording studios must include a reasonably powerful computer (with at least 1 GB of RAM), an audio interface, and a digital audio workstation program. If you want to record any kind of acoustic instruments or vocals you will need microphones. For those who interested in using synths, samplers, loops, and drum machines I highly recommend the Reason software. You will also, of course, need some sort of system for listening back to your music. You really should have both speakers and headphones (listen to your music both ways to make sure you have a good mix.)
What kind of computer should you get? Well if you already have a computer that you are happy with then you can likely use the one you already have. But you must make sure it has at least 1 GB of RAM. And in all likelihood you'll want more than that. I recommend at least 2 GB. Your recording and mixing software will work far better with more RAM.
Should you get a Mac or a PC? In my opinion either option is fine. Most people make too big a deal out of this. Some programs work better with one or the other and while other programs only work with one or the other. So if you have a certain program that you really want to use, make sure it's compatible with your computer.
What kind of audio interface you get depends on two things: Your needs & your budget. If you only plan on recording yourself then you won't need more than two inputs (at most.) Unless of course you have a live drum set (it's good to record drums with many inputs for the different microphones.) But there's more to consider than just how many inputs you get with your interface, you should also consider sound quality. The more expensive models tend to also have better sound quality. Get what you can afford.
There are a lot of choices as far as digital audio workstation (DAW) software. There's Pro Tools (which works with the Digidesign audio interfaces.) There's Cubase. There's Nuendo. There's Logic. And there's quite a few others as well. Which one is right for you? Well first you should know that some of these programs only work with PC (Cakewalk's SONAR & Sony Acid) or Mac (Logic & Digital Performer.) Bedsides that I think they are all quite similar actually. The important thing is which one you feel most comfortable with. You can download free demo versions to see which one fits you best. There are some general tips about digital audio workstations that I can give: Sony Acid tends to be a good choice for those who do loop based music (like hip hop and techno.) Cubase is a good choice for people on PCs or Macs. Pro Tools is a good choice for those using a Mac but it's probably not the best choice for those using Windows. It tends to work better on Macs and it's actually not as full featured as Cubase.
As far as microphones are concerned you will want to buy a condenser microphone for recording vocals and acoustic instruments. With microphones you usually get what you pay for. Better clarity comes from better mics (and better mic preamps but that's getting a bit too complicated for this article.) Better mics cost more money. Dynamic mics are good for recording drums and amps. I would say they are less essential unless you have a drum set. If you have some good guitar effect plugins (such as Waves GTR 3) then you'll probably be able to get a good sound plugging your electric guitar (or bass) directly into your audio interface.
Reason is the best all in one solution for those who want a drum machine, a sampler, a synthesizer, and/or a looping program. It's top quality software that I cannot recommend any higher. If you can afford it and you are interesting in any sort of "synthetic" elements in your music then it's a must have.
About the Author
Marvin J. Markus recommends that you learn more about recording music at the home music recording blog. An alternative to a condenser microphone is the ribbon microphone. The ribbon mic is great for a "vintage" sound.