Noob podcast recording interface/software issues...please help!

[vmancini]

So I am getting ready to purchase the interface I will be using to record my podcast. I was planning on the M-Audio Fast Track Ultra 8R with Pro Tools SE bundle until I saw that SE might only be able to record two tracks simultaneously, and since I will be recording 3 mics plus audio played via laptop, this won't work, I may need MP. Also, I had hoped to use outboard compression for the mics but I noticed that the Fast Track only allows inserts for the first two mic channels. I have an old carvin studio mate SM162 that has inserts for each channel, but then I wouldn't be able to send individual mic tracks to the software for individual track editing post recording. I'd love to hear your suggestions for setup of this hardware and/or suggestions for other options as far as interfaces go, and whether I need at least Pro Tools MP to do what I want.

Summary: I want to record a podcast with 3 mics and audio via laptop.
Equip I already have:
PC (I know Mac is better) 3.0 GHZ quadcore, 8GB RAM
Behringer HA4700 headphone amp
Carvin Studio Mate SM162 Mixer (just in case)
MXL 990 (3x)

Equip I had planned on buying (at least to get started):
M-Audio Fast Track Ultra 8R/Pro Tools SE bundle
DBX 166 compressor (possibly)

Thanks for your help!

[shockermatt]

sounds like you need an interface with more I/O. there are a ton of dif lower end interfaces out there that can do what you need.

somethings to consider:
what is your budget?
does your pc have firewire?

[vmancini]

I'd like to stay around the $500 range if possible. But I am willing to go slightly above to get what I need. My pc does not have firewire but i suppose i could always pick up a pci one.

[shockermatt]

just do a quick search on interfaces and you'll see there are plenty that will do what you need and are well within your budget. esp if you are willing to buy used.

[vmancini]

Any you can recommend specifically? I'm having trouble narrowing it down.

[vmancini]

I'm now looking into the Tascam US-2000. Any thoughts?

[Patrickmmiami]

You should take a look at the Saffire pro 40. it's less than $400, and got some cool features, such as 2 headphones, ADAT expansion, and great monitoring. the control software (even if not easy to master) include the basic plugin (reverb, compression, etc..)

Saffire PRO 40 Audio Interfaces Professional 20 In / 20 Out Firewire interface with eight Focusrite Pre-amps

it's a firewire interface.

[thejammer]

yeah, definitely, check on focusrite side. They have plenty of soundcards with preamp and builtin fx.

Maybe this one could be cool for you?

http://www.artproaudio.com/products....6&cat=9&id=156

Personally, I would definitely go for this one:

http://www.motu.com/products/motuaudio/896mk3

The motu mk3 serie has builtin dsp processors and fx like reverb, compressor, etc, with preamp for your mics. Take a look at the used one. It definitely worth it!