Old School Meets New -- Digital Multi-track Recorders

I remember my first analog 4-track recorder. I saved forever to buy it. I was in heaven when I finally got it. I could record a voice and three instruments (an extra instrument if I played something while I sang). That was high technology, baby. A songwriter's dream. I was ready to write a song anytime, almost anywhere.

Today, with all the multi-track recording software available for computers and the multi-track recording apps available for tablets, I almost forgot about the physical multi-track recording device. I started looking at them recently and was happy to see how far they've come. The analog multi-track recorder has given way to the digital recorder, and there are many to choose from, depending upon your needs and your price range.

And no tape required.

These new digital multi-track recorders and mixers come in a variety of sizes, ranging from pocket size to full size recording studio consoles, and everything in between.

Start off with the Pocketraks by Yamaha. A handy little device for songwriters on the go. Built in tuner, metronome, external input, the ability to overdub by simply punching a button, marker editing, and recording presets to help get you started. You probably won't use one to record your next CD, but they're great for capturing rough demos and song ideas. For around $150.00, the Pocketrak is an affordable solution for beginning songwriters who happen to be on a budget.

Tascam, of course, makes a full range of digital multi-track recording devices and mixers ranging in price from around $400 to $3000, again depending upon your needs. Check out the Zoom series.

Digital multi-track recording software today comes with built -in loops, effects, and a range of tools that allow you to make recording studio quality music in your own own, from rough mix to finished product.

Guitar Center and Musician's Friend are both great places to shop online and do your research in one place. They both carry a full line of digital multi-track recording devices fro Cakewalk, Tascam, Korg, and Boss.

Whether you prefer to stick with your computer and multi-track software, you'd rather have a physical digital DAW, or you use both, there's something out there to meet your needs and fit your budget.