I did a search for this...but saw no topics or posts that really answered my question(s).

I am looking to get some better gear than I have now, and will be using it for
PC based Home recording only...or at least that I know of.

What is a good sound-card...at least 24-bit...that has true stereo sound?
I don't care so much for more than 2-4 inputs...and I don't want something
that requires a mixing board or Power amp type plug-in. Or maybe I do.

(Sorry...never had anything really nice to record or mix with...so jacks and
input types are not something I know a whole lot about)

Maybe I should just tell what I am looking to record.

I play electric guitar...and will be looking to record stuff like Tony MacAlpine,
or Malmsteen..or Joe Satriani would if they recorded using their PC's.

I want a soundcard that would allow both a direct in signal from say an
Eventide Eclipse...Lex verb...and then a microphone input of the same
signal.

Drums...I always use loops...so that's not an issue...

I may buy a cheap Bass...

I may buy a Roland synth if I can find a real cheapie one.
This will be used mainly for doing orchestral "string" type backgrounds,
and just some plain weird sounds...

Also...some good monitoring speakers or headphone set-up suggestions.

I know Sennheiser phones are good...but I'm not spending 10 grand on
a pair of phones...

Thanks...and if 4 grand is not high end...feel free to put this topic elsewhere.

Well, let's see. For $4000 you could get a pair of Adam monitors

Or you could get two channels of converters and pre-amps.

Or you could get 2-4 microphones.

...that's the way "High-End" goes around here.

(in the Low End Theory section we can get you fully outfitted for that with sound quality that is almost as good...)



-tINY

Yes, I believe for 4 grand you should be able to get stereo sound.

Your question is rather vague. What is it your stepping up from? Do you already have a decent pc? If so, you need to decide on software and a soundcard. There's tons of info here and other forums covering both those topics.

IF two inputs will get the job done, I'd recommend an apogee mini me, which will get you into the computer in STYLE. There's 12 bills.

And a great all around mic, I've been lusting for a Gefell M930, there's a grr or so.

The Uad 1 card sure comes in handy.

Voila. Instant Joe Satrianni.

Hell, you'll still have enough left over for a burger and fries for you and the Mrs.

I wish you would've told me that before I went out and bought all these fabrege eggs.