i haven't been on GS in a long time and it's really cool to find this forum. it's a bit saddening to read about what goes into some of my favorite records sonic wise. mostly with my budget i cant afford a big studio/recordist/mastering/etc... i have Cubase, some old MOTU's and a collection of Chinese condenser mics. but with the record industry dying i wonder if i (or anyone else) will ever be able to make a great record on our own without shelling out $$$ for a big room and aceess to great mic pre's and outboard gear.

The trick isn't trying to make recordings that you feel are comparable or competitive with other "big budget" recordings- it's about making recordings which are inspiring and expressive to you. In order to do this, you have to search for combinations with what you have that excite you- ultimately, the gear is meaningless.

The Eurythmics made "Sweet Dreams" at home on an 8 track recorder. Frank Filipetti made James Taylor's "Hour Glass" in James' living room with DA88's and a Yamaha 02R. These are just a few noteworthy recordings which were done under less than perfect circumstances and less than perfect recording equipment. Of course, the individuals making them are extraordinarily talented- then again, perhaps you are too. There's only one way to find out.

Great advice.

Thank you sir.