Digital recording computer guitar thingy....

[schmendict]

Ok, so what im looking for is pretty much like one of thise Line 6 Riff tracker or Behringer v-amp things, but a bit cheaper. Something that would enable me to record directly into the computer, without a mic. to eliminate unwanted sounds or that horrible "cssssssssh" you get with a mic.
Is there an adaptor available to connect up the guitar cable to a USB port or something like that?
http://www.maplin.co.uk/Module.aspx?ModuleNo=28107&&source=14&doy=search
This is the closest ive been able to find at the moment, surely if i plugged that into my microphone socket, it would transfer directly into my recording software thing?
Could anyone give me the correct name for these contraptions and places to find them?
A vague question, i know, but im sure youll understand...
Thanks in advance,
Alex.

[chrisola]

I wouldnt bother with using anything that involves plugging into a PC soundcard unless you are buying top spec professional quality one, as cheap ones sound like garbage.

The Line6 GuitarPort is one of the cheapest\best things for this, dont bother with the RiffTracker software, just get the Line6 GuitarPort itself.

http://www.guitarampkeyboard.com/options.php?id=3430

It works with free programs like Audacity and N-Tracks so you can plug in, record, mix and track easily.. either with the Line6 amp modelling or by using it as an amp > pc interface.

The Line6 software has an excellent cab simulator and pre-amp modes, or you can just use the Line6 models (basically a PODxt).

Best way to go imo.

[schmendict]

That price looks tempting with the discount, but does this "Online Community" have a drum machine or such like...
Ill delve deeper into this...

[chrisola]

Drum Kit From Hell is free :)

I think Steve uses it, but not sure...

[schmendict]

Thanks Chrisola, any links?

[chrisola]

audacity: http://audacity.sourceforge.net/
n-TRACK: http://www.fasoft.com/
drum kit: er you will have to 'acquire' it as i think it costs money (am at work so cant google much)

:)

[HJM]

Drum Kit From Hell is free :)

I think Steve uses it, but not sure...

Gutted...where do you get it for nothing???

[Searcher]

How about Acid Music?

[_tom_]

How about Acid Music?

The Music Studio one looks perfect!

[schmendict]

To uh... "aquire" programmes, get a peer to peer sharing thing like Limewire...
But you have to obey copyright rules! *cough* *shifty eyes*  :lol:
Since i started this post, ive found a 1/4" to 1/8" adaptor and the Korg Pandora thingy, thanks to brow.
http://www.hifibitz.co.uk/product.asp?id=3971
http://www.guitarampkeyboard.com/options.php?id=68075
I think im pretty much sorted now.  :D
Thanks everyone.

[chrisola]

hmm, the korg thingy looks (is) good.. but i wouldnt be sure about using a standard PC soundcard. they CAN pick up hum\noise from your PCs internal fans, and tend to overload easily if you cant lower the input volume enough...

[Elliot]

I have started using my guitarport straight into Mixcraft - and very good it is too - much better than rifftracker - with PC Drummer I have the bollox for less than £150 - not bad.

[Floyd Pepper]

For drums go here http://www.acidplanet.com

Then go to Tools -> 8 Pack.  Every week they release a set of 8 loops that include drums and rythms.  Off 8 Pack you can download AcidXpress (a cut down version of Acid) for free.  

While at AcidPlanet look at the contests.  You can download loops from released comercial songs, like Madonna, New Order, etc in the past, and re-mix them for prizes.  

AcidPlanet is a great place for quality loops.