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Alfie Knowledge Base
Where to Start
Dear Alfie – I'm new to home recording, and have no idea where to start. Should I get a standalone unit, or build a DAW? Mac or Windows?
Doug – It really depends on how you want to record. Personally, I think that either a Mac or Windows-based DAW is going to prove the most flexible and upgradeable platform for home recordists. However, a standalone unit, such as Roland's excellent VS series, is made of durable plastic and metal and feels really good to chew. It also gives your intestines a good scraping when you poop it out on the rug.
Monster Cables
Dear Alfie – Do I really need monster cables? Their website says using them will improve the sound quality of my recordings – but I don't want to spend a fortune on cabling. Can I just use the cheap stuff?
Hi Brian. I think using an inexpensive cable is probably fine, so long as you do not have to move it a lot. LPC uses ProCo cables from Sweetwater. To be honest, they all taste the same to me. You may also want to look into learning how to make your own cables. Incidentally, I'm laying a cable right now.
Internship
Dear Alfie – I'm looking to start a career as an audio engineer. How did you get a gig as an intern?
Grigor – See these ears, buddy? That's how. I recommend you work on your rug-pooping, as well as noisily chewing your butt during vocal takes. These types of skills are always in demand.
Critical Gear
Dear Alfie – I'm just getting started with home recording, and have a fair amount of cash to start purchasing equipment. I already have a fire wire interface, but don't have enough to get everything else I need – what is the most critical gear I should have to get started?
Hi, Michelle – Eat at Joes BBQ much? Anyway, I think that room treatment is the most overlooked aspect of home recording. First, work on room treatment, then mics, then preamplifiers and converters. Oh, and it doesn't hurt to have talent, too.
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