This is only for practicing, recording jams, and general farting around. Right now I'm using a Korg PXR4 digital 4-track direct off the recording outs on my Recto Preamp. It sounds great, except the mutes are weak as hell, too thin and no crunch to them. I'm looking for the absolute basics for micing my cab into the Korg unit. What do I need? Thanks.
I was not impressed with the speaker simulation in the rectifier preamp. Is your requirement to record direct from the preamp as opposed to mic'ing the cab?
No, I'd like to be able to mic the cab and forget the direct stuff. Basically, I'm looking for what mics I need, if a mic pre is nessessary (and what make/model), and what axis and point of aim you recommend for each. I'll be micing an oversized Mesa 4x12, and I'd like both a nice clean sound and something that captures heavy dirt (some done with detuned guitars) and muted chugging, if that's of any assistance. I'm also on a budget. I can save for anything I can't afford, but this is an amature setup for home use, so I don't need pro studio gear....
I'm not an expert but you should be able to do everything you need with a single Shure SM57 and no mic preamp assuming you have XLR inputs on your recorder. The basic technique is to point the mic at the edge of the speaker cone as an inch or so away from the grille cloth but don't be afraid to experiment. If you're recording in a nice sounding room, a condensor mic such as the MXL 2001 a few feet from the speaker will capture some room ambience which will sound good for more mellow tones. For that you'd need a mic preamp such as the Presonus Tube Pre.
Here's what I would suggest. Since the PXR4 doesn't have a mic preamp (they're line in's only I believe) I'd consider getting a - sm57 - studio projects vtb-1 preamp http://www.studioprojectsusa.com/vtb1.html Get 'em both for under $200 total, and improve your recorded guitar sound 1000%. Just run the line outs from the vtb-1 into the pxr4 line in.
IMO that question comes down to sound... tubes add another level of distortion and harmonics that some find pleasing. But I don't think that necessarily means tube equipment is better just another flavor of color. On the vtb-1 it can be blended in which is a cool feature...
I think the Presonus Tube Pre would do you just as well and it's dirt cheap. I sold mine for $60 a few weeks ago.
when the "blend" knob is fully CCW, it is all solid state. I would get a SS transparent preamp first, then get tube preamps if you like.
I second the SM-57, all around workhorse and great for micing cabs. I use an ART Studio V3Tube pre, sounds good for the money http://artproaudio.com/products_main.asp?cat=1&id=58&type=79&show= You probably have more horse power in your PC than that 4 tracker and you'll get a lot more tracks to use too...just a thought
