New to recording. Need some help.

[cNelson144]

I've wanted to record for a while, and I've got a pretty good computer. But i'm not even really sure how to record? Is there a way to record right onto your computer? Can anyone help me out with this?

[Daspub]

Hi. First, you need some recording software. You may already have a basic version of this on your computer. If not, there's a ton of stuff out there, ranging from inexpensive to professional. (I use Cakewalk's Sonar 6).

Then you need an interface. Your sound card may already have midi ins and outs and instrument ins, but probably doesn't. I use an E-Mu 0404 external USB box, which has two mic ins, two line ins and a midi in and out.

There are a couple of good books out there that can help you with the basics. I found Home Recording for Musicians (in the For Dummies) series to be really helpful.

Good luck.