Songcrafters.org

Since this site now covers much more than the Micro BR, I thought it would be interesting to run an ongoing poll of which recorders the members are currently using. Please cast your vote above. You can select more than one recorder, but please only select the ones that you actually use (not the ones that are buried under a bunch of junk in a closet and haven't been used in years, or the 4-track cassette you sold 20 years ago). You're allowed to change your vote later, in case you make a mistake and don't notice it right away.

I hope everyone will participate in this poll. It's very easy to do, so there's no reason not to cast your vote.

i still use my Boss MicroBR for recording jam sessions and band rehearsals, songwriting and just plain jammin' along with the drum patterns for warm ups and practice.

i'm in the process of learning how to use Logic as my software DAW along with a Tascam FW1884 interface/controller to record a full album for my band. this will probably take a few months at the rate we are going but it's worth it. considering how much more complicated this method is turning out to be, i have to say that i truly love my Boss MicroBR that much more for its simplicity and raw sexiness.

microBR and BR-1200 for me.  These two are all I use (no computers involved at all).  After getting the BR-1200 I realize just how sophisticated and powerful the microBR is.  It just takes more frigging around to get it done but it can do just about everything that you can do on the BR-1200 with a bit more time and patience.  I love them both and use them both a lot. (all of the Neilfest posts from me have been microBR for example)

It all started with my Boss BR900cd, then I got Mackie Tracktion3 because it was cheap and I'm obsessive...Then hearing the stuff people were coming up with on the MBR~ I had to get one, not that I needed it or could afford it(but I use it all the time)....I also have Cubase that came with my Alesis Firewire mixer, but I never use it...Last, but certainly not least, the good ol', FREE Audacity....I have to include it because I use it so often..

Boss BR864 for me and occasionally my friend lets me record with his Micro BR. I'm Impressed with both at the vast array of gadgets but i find they are not easy to use for noobies.

In addition to my Micro BR, I have GarageBand.  I even bought the Dummies book for Garageband--but I can't bring myself to dive in.  The Micro BR gets me away from the cursed computer, and GarageBand would pull me back in.

I mean, basically on these machines, you've got everything you're almost ever gonna need as a home-musician/recordist. Beyond the BR range, and esp the top-end, you'd be as well paying for a studio. Stay at home, have some fun. Imagine what these things would have cost you 25 years ago - and then you really would have only found them in a studio.

Looks like stats show that the microbr's are taking over the world...  Just started listening to some of the other posts under the other br units - wow!  This is an incredible forum - so much music out there~~~  I am having fun with my br900, but Tammy will start wondering if I'm spending this time @ the pc/br900/brforum with music or looking @ some naughty sites - ha!

MBR and software DAW....looks like I am in the majority here :)

I just recently purchased the MBR, and I love it!
I'm still learning how to use it correctly....
Also, I use Audacity alot.

LG

Quote from: lg on September 25, 2009, 09:04:14 AMI just recently purchased the MBR, and I love it!
I'm still learning how to use it correctly....
Also, I use Audacity alot.

LG

Finally !!! Welcome to the family 8) and congrats Larry!! You won't regret it !!!!

oh ... almost forgot ... I use the mbr  too ;D

and sometimes a Korg D16

Yeah hooooo.  Great news lg.  I can't wait to hear what you come up with on the little shiny wonder-box.

Quote from: lg on September 25, 2009, 09:04:14 AMI just recently purchased the MBR, and I love it!
I'm still learning how to use it correctly....
Also, I use Audacity alot.

LG

Hey Larry! Welcome to the club! You know what the micro can do with a bit of learning / practice under your belt. I guess we'll be hearing some new material from you soon... ! That's great news.

Thanks guys. Yeah, I am very excited about it too!
Now the trick will be to find some time....LOL

LG

I think the MBR is possibly the best non-instrument (apart from perhaps a metronome, and it is that as well) that I have ever bought. I've used it for an enormous range of musical functions both in recording and practice, and as an mp3 player.  But I'm getting drawn back to Garageband (even though I don't like sitting in front of a computer) because I can see all the tracks open at once, I can make adjustments much more quickly through sliders and mutes and I can sample and that is something I want to explore.

Quote from: tony on September 26, 2009, 04:33:42 PMI'm getting drawn back to Garageband (even though I don't like sitting in front of a computer) because I can see all the tracks open at once, I can make adjustments much more quickly through sliders and mutes and I can sample and that is something I want to explore.

Here are some reasons why I prefer hardware recorders to software DAWs:

https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?topic=220.msg1245#msg1245 (https://songcrafters.org/forum/index.php?topic=220.msg1245#msg1245)

Of course, there are some great advantages to a software DAW too. But, for me, they don't outweigh the disadvantages. I think a compromise is the best way to go. Use the BR for capturing your tracks. Then, when it's desirable and convenient, export your tracks using the BR Wave Converter and import them into your software DAW for further processing and mixing.

I really like the Zoom HD8/HD16 and R16 recorders. They have a much better interface to the computer, and the faders and other controls can be used as a control surface with your favourite software DAW. That solves one of my main complaints against software DAWs - the lack of real controls. And the Zooms record their tracks in standard WAV format, so you can copy tracks back and forth between the recorder and your software DAW without any conversion. It's the best of both worlds. You can use your computer when it's convenient, using real faders and controls. And, when it's not convenient to use the computer, you've got a complete, stand-alone hardware recorder on which you can record tracks, use effects, program drums, mix, and master.

I usually recommend the BR-600 to first-time buyers rather than the Micro BR because I think it's important to have real fader controls. The BR-600 also has many other great features not found on the Micro BR and doesn't cost all that much more.

Micro BR works for me as I have to set up in any vacant nook or cranny available, but access to a DAW later is essential as well, so agree fully. Would like all them extra bells and whistles on the big boys mind....

Quote from: 64Guitars on September 26, 2009, 05:11:15 PMI think a compromise is the best way to go. Use the BR for capturing your tracks. Then, when it's desirable and convenient, export your tracks using the BR Wave Converter and import them into your software DAW for further processing and mixing.

[...] It's the best of both worlds. You can use your computer when it's convenient, using real faders and controls. And, when it's not convenient to use the computer, you've got a complete, stand-alone hardware recorder on which you can record tracks, use effects, program drums, mix, and master.

I usually recommend the BR-600 to first-time buyers rather than the Micro BR because I think it's important to have real fader controls. The BR-600 also has many other great features not found on the Micro BR and doesn't cost all that much more.

I have to agree with this.  When I first got the MBR, about Nov/Dec last year, I was over the moon with what it could do.  I didn't exploit a fraction of it and I still don't.  But it was so nice to take a guitar, lead and the MBR and just record stuff.  Then the drummer in my then band got a BR600 and we would use that at rehearsal or around the kitchen table and I got to know how good that is.  I agree that it would be my first choice if I was buying again.  But these days, I'm trying to write some songs rather than just play covers/arrangements as the guitarist in the band and I think I will use anything that will help me build an arrangement. And that's where Garageband is so useful.

The recent discussion of GTR+MIC helped me a lot.  I didn't realise it was there and it is great, much better than a software DAW, for getting something worked out (singing -and I sing soooo crap- and playing some harmony underneath) that I prefer the MBR to anything bigger.

Like everything, it's horses for courses, and you have to work out what you want to use it for.  The nice thing about the MBR is that it is so full of goodies that that process takes a long time (and a lot of fun).

Micro BR was a great addition to my equipment ;)
I almost bought Korg D4, but got BR instead!

I'd like to buy other recorder for a less mobile, but more direct editing enviroment...
Would D4 be the ideal gear?

Or maybe some BR-600, BR-1200, etc? :)
If all BR data are alike, it would be great to record 'on-the-go' on the micro, and then take the CARD to edit on the tabletop gear  8)

Oh! :( only the Micro uses SD :(

Quote from: SenhorLampada on October 20, 2009, 06:38:34 AMIf all BR data are alike, it would be great to record 'on-the-go' on the micro, and then take the CARD to edit on the tabletop gear  8)

I'm sure that someone will confirm or dis-confirm this, but my understanding is that the Micro BR data files can be used on the other BR models but not necessarily in the other direction. (Only some data from say a BR 600 can be read and used in a Micro BR.)

You might not need to worry about the difference in media cards as long as you have at least two free USB ports on your computer.  If I'm right--which happens occasionally--you could connect your Micro BR and bigger BR to your computer at the same time, and drag a BRO folder from the MBR to the bigger BR. (Of course, you'd have to adjust for any folder name conflicts.)  Once you'd done that, your songs could be opened in the bigger BR, and you could continue from there.  I don't know what would become of any drum sequence data.

I'd like to know if I'm right about this, because I'm feeling BR 600 envy--and I have to keep reminding myself that I have a MacBook Pro with GarageBand already on it.

Some of the Micro BR's files are compatible with the BR-600/900/864 (see page 109 of the Micro BR manual). However, any files with the extension ".BR1" are unique to the Micro BR and will not be recognised by any other BR. These include "ARRANGE3.BR1" (drum arrangements) and "EFFECTS3.BR1" (song effects). So that just leaves your recorded track data.

Since you can only exchange track data with other BRs, you might as well just export your tracks to WAV files with the BR Wave Converter (http://www.rolandus.com/products/productdetails.php?ProductId=699&tab=downloads&skip=true). Then you can import them into any recorder or software DAW.

Yep! That's what I thought!
Too bad you can't exchange data without using a computer as an intermediator! :(

But that's the beautiful thing about these new 'netbooks'
Light enough to sequence midi and assist on some audio related tasks (backup and intermediator) :D

It seems like i'd go for the BR 900... But the BR 600 is SO cute! ::)

Quote from: Ted on October 20, 2009, 10:16:21 AMI'd like to know if I'm right about this, because I'm feeling BR 600 envy--and I have to keep reminding myself that I have a MacBook Pro with GarageBand already on it.

I too have BR600 envy.  But envy is a serious part of my personality.  The serious point that Ted's comment brings up is the difference between the MBR and the other members of the BR family.  The MBR is the best recorder I have without a doubt (I use the MBR and Garageband).  But it doesn't really stand up as an audio editor.  That's where the strength of the BR600s and above come in.  Desktop machines have more space for everything.

There is no problem editing on the MBR but it is fiddly and annoying to keep going backwards and forwards through the menus.  A machine with faders and mutes makes all the difference for listening to different combinations of tracks.  And that affects how you think of the arrangements in the same way the the MBR's portability, clarity and ease of recording affects how you think about recording things.  Whether you go with one of the bigger models or a DAW is another set of questions but I know that having Garageband already means that I can't justify buying a BR600.  Especially when I need a new microphone, monitors, a HammondSuzuki melodion would be nice, my mandolin fixed, a bottle of whiskey, my teeth fixed ..............

Hey Tony... It's a long list of desires! :D

Just on the audio side... I'd like to have the Korg Electribes ESX and EMX, Roland's SP-404, Korg's MicroSampler, MicroKorg XL, Kaossilator and M-Audio's Axiom 49 or 61 :)

This just to get started!
I also need multi-band compressor, eq, pre-amp for the dynamics processing ;)

Oh... and room space for all that stuff! :D
Oh boy  :o

Quote from: SenhorLampada on October 20, 2009, 07:53:35 PMHey Tony... It's a long list of desires! :D

A long list of desire - I thought that's what they invented the internet for.

I keep the real long list on an external hard drive.

Does it work? :D

Quote from: SenhorLampada on October 22, 2009, 08:33:48 PMDoes it work? :D

Sure, as long as I don't plug it in.

i use micro br...but im going through a quiet phase at the moment so it sint seeing much action. no doubt it will sometime soon. if anyone can let me know the latest device similarly sized but with even more features then i am all ears. thanks for the email and im glad to be back in this great helpful friendly necessary forum. kind regards to all.

Quote from: tony on October 20, 2009, 04:22:55 PM

Quote from: Ted on October 20, 2009, 10:16:21 AMI'd like to know if I'm right about this, because I'm feeling BR 600 envy--and I have to keep reminding myself that I have a MacBook Pro with GarageBand already on it.

I too have BR600 envy.  But envy is a serious part of my personality.  The serious point that Ted's comment brings up is the difference between the MBR and the other members of the BR family.  The MBR is the best recorder I have without a doubt (I use the MBR and Garageband).  But it doesn't really stand up as an audio editor.  That's where the strength of the BR600s and above come in.  Desktop machines have more space for everything.

I had a chance to crack GarageBand in the last week.  I took a guitar part that was sent to me as an MP3, and hacked it all up and rearranged it.  It would have been extremely laborious to do the same on the Micro BR -- perhaps on any BR, unless there's one where you can see the waveform and cut visually.

But I put the guitar part right back on the MBR where I will add drums and bass.

I see a happy marriage in the works between the complimentary features of each tool:

|Feature	|Micro BR	|GarageBand
|Gets me off the cursed computer	|Yes	|No
|Vary tempo between different parts of a song	|Yes	|No
|Create custom drum patterns and non-4/4 rhythms	|Not easily	|Yes
|MIDI input, output, and sync	|No	|Yes
|Ability to edit bad notes input by drum or keyboard.	|No	|Yes
|Library of instrument sounds.	|No	|Yes

I imagine I'll be using GarageBand for:

• Rearranging sound files
• Occasional drum arrangements--in combination with my little digital drum kit, and only when I run into the limitations of the Micro BR
• Keyboard parts that push my meager abilities (i.e. any keyboard part)

Quote from: Ted on October 24, 2009, 01:03:27 PMI see a happy marriage in the works between the complimentary features of each tool:

|Feature	|Micro BR	|GarageBand
|Gets me off the cursed computer	|Yes	|No
|Vary tempo between different parts of a song	|Yes	|No

Unfortunately for the balance of the list, this last feature is quite easy in Garageband.  Just record the bit at another tempo in another file, save it iTunes and then import to the original track from there.  The tempo will be preserved and you have the capacity to set up crossfades to smooth it in if you wish.

It isn't fair is it. 

I asked a drum pattern question about custom patterns and 64Guitars rightly told that it wasn't possible on the MBR.  The thinking behind it was to be able to work with one track on both machines (Mac & MBR) with a synced drum pattern.  It is still doable but the tempo change feature isn't available.  Still the reasoning behind that was to keep using the MBR for (non-midi) instrument capture.  I don't think anything beats it on that front.

Quote from: tony on October 24, 2009, 04:58:28 PM

Quote from: Ted on October 24, 2009, 01:03:27 PMI see a happy marriage in the works between the complimentary features of each tool:

|Feature	|Micro BR	|GarageBand
|Gets me off the cursed computer	|Yes	|No
|Vary tempo between different parts of a song	|Yes	|No

Unfortunately for the balance of the list, this last feature is quite easy in Garageband.  Just record the bit at another tempo in another file, save it iTunes and then import to the original track from there.  The tempo will be preserved and you have the capacity to set up crossfades to smooth it in if you wish.

Hadn't thought of that, although it does seem like a clunky workaround.  About as clunky, in fact, as the method for creating custom drum patterns in the Micro BR, which is possible by bouncing drum patterns to v-tracks and editing and blending them together.  (I've done it, and I have the bump bait to prove it!)

The six features I compared are all not weighted equally in my world.  The heaviest weight goes to this one: Gets me off the cursed computer.

Quote from: Ted on October 24, 2009, 11:48:48 PMThe six features I compared are all not weighted equally in my world.  The heaviest weight goes to this one: Gets me off the cursed computer.

Then let me be evil for a moment: what if I said that you could run Garageband on an iPod Touch?

I'm pretty sure that you can't but I'm equally sure that the people at Roland don't want that idea floating around.

Quote from: tony on October 25, 2009, 12:11:31 AM

Quote from: Ted on October 24, 2009, 11:48:48 PMThe six features I compared are all not weighted equally in my world.  The heaviest weight goes to this one: Gets me off the cursed computer.

Then let me be evil for a moment: what if I said that you could run Garageband on an iPod Touch?

I'm pretty sure that you can't but I'm equally sure that the people at Roland don't want that idea floating around.

Evil?  That would be awesome!

MicroBr for hardware recorder.
and Cubase le with a E=MU 404 interface (currently looking at the Reaper package  ( http://www.reaper.fm/ ) in trial mode, seems easier to use that cubase, but cubase le came free with the e=mu )

I use MBR and BR-600. MBR is very handy and of course BR-600 is, too. But very often I just take MBR and use it as 'a notebook'. There is humming built in mics in 600, so I use two external cond. mics. The warranty is valid on my BR-600, must send it back to the dealer...

I had BR-1200 for a few months, but I sold it to my friend. I play so much acoustic music and I couldn't get sounds to pleased with. I tested several mics in good quality and pre amp. The quality was good with e-gtr/bass and keyboards.

By the way, is there any recorders in next generation coming out in the near future (from BOSS)?

i use the micro br and occassionally mix and edit stuff in cubase sx2

Sometimes I just scream at the mirror in the bathroom and when it comes back I feel better.  Can't edit it though, that's a bugger.

Santa brought me a BR900cd but he didn't have time to give me to much instruction so I'm working it out slowly. Hope to post some music soon!

I have used a Boss br 8 , and about 5 years or so ago i bought a Zoom mrs1608 which is lying vacant in my music room , but currently i am using the Micro which has great patches and to me is so easy to use , i can pull stuff into audacity if i feel i can give it justice , and take it anywhere including work to have a listen to my tracks , i take it on holiday with a 3/4 size electric guitar and noodle around to backing tracks or try and compose some stuff . if i had to throw one of them away it would be the Zoom .

PJD1

Quote from: Redler on January 05, 2010, 09:46:25 AMBy the way, is there any recorders in next generation coming out in the near future (from BOSS)?

The 'newest' I know is CD-2e...

Has anyone tried Korg's 1 Bit recorder, the MR1?
 :D

I got a BR-1200cd for Christmas. So far I'm getting the hang of it pretty good. I'll post when I have a completed work. I have several "test" songs that I've written to figure out one thing or another about the recorder, but I'm currently learning to do the drum arrangements.

hey everyone i'n new here ..this is my numero uno post!!!  just wanted to say hello and say that i use a korg D1600MKII  multitrack in the studio and a Zoom H4N out in the field . i stumbled across this web page quite by accident a few months ago and have been lurking about , after hearing some of the great (and decidedly daring ) covers of the great Mr. Neil Young i said to myself i gotta take the plunge and register here and get in on the fun so here i am ! i look forwar to sharing my originals and covers with all you great folks and listeng to all your boss creations too.
i have links to my sites down the bottom of the page these links will get updated as frequently as time permits me to ,however i will post links to new stuff everytime i put somthing there! hey what's the theme of the next fest? I WANT IN!!!   cheers  chris    

hey welcome aboard chrisloved your songs, the healer was my favourite one. hope to hear more soon

Hey Chris, welcome! Listening to some of your songs - Fantastic stuff, very pro. You should post a quick hello in the Introduce Yourself  (https://songcrafters.org/forum/index.php?board=46.0) section. I just happened to stumble on this sticky, others may not.

Anyway, see you around,

Mark

Welcom chris. Cool music!! Post some of your music here soon!

There was talk of a Pirate fest  ::) ....

I use a Zoom MRS-8 multi-track recorder for recording along with Audacity V1.2.6 for basic editing and Cakewalk Music Creator 3 for MIDI and VSTi.

The effects and althorythmns available in the Zoom MRS-8 inspire me.  They are a great help in achieving the tone I hear in my mind.  The built-in drum and bass rhythm machine is a great help in maintaining the correct tempo.

I have not learned to use many of the editing features available in the MRS-8.  I prefer to import the wave files into Audacity and edit.

I use the Virtual Sound Canvas general midi instrument set that comes with Cakewalk Music Creator 3 along with MC3's MIDI capability and M-Audio's Drum and Bass Rig and other VSTi instruments available for free over the internet to create embellishments.  I am not proficent with any instrument so I have to rely on MIDI tracks to perform much of the music I hear but can not actually perform in real time.


I love the art of recording and production.  It is a great way to express yourself.

Jim Fogle
fogle622@yahoo.com

Hello Jim!

I mainly use the Br-600 (lot of features for a little recorder) and sometimes energy xt

I'm not using my Boss Micro BR, because it d'ont works at Windows 7!!
So, what can i do is to use my BR1600 that make it own recorded cd.

QSince i posted last time my zoom 1608 has died , i will never use zoom stuff again , my apologises to anybody using similar gear but i had to many issues with it ,, i am currently using an Old Boss  BR8 which does everything that it should but records to 110 meg zip disks , i then use teh boss micro as then master track destination then record in using the live and stereo input , quality seems ok but a bit messy , but hey it works and i never had any concerns with any Boss gear at all , i use a GT6 boss processor in the  band  i play with it it still sounds cool

PJD1 currently using br 800

I got a Micro BR since a few weeks now and know how to handle it - well, almost ;D
What I've not yet used are the built in drum patterns, which are a bit tedious to put
in. Most of the time I build a rhythm or base track with some other program like
Band-in-a-box or such and use that as a start for recording. Other progs I use in
combination with the Micro BR are Goldwave, Reason and Recycle (for cutting samples etc.)

I don't use the MicroBR but I've heard some work on it and it is an amazing little machine.  Barely larger than a credit card and it delivers a huge sound.  How do they do that? :o

I use two MIDI sequencer/recording programs-Samplitude Music Studio version 14 by Magix and Mixcraft 5 by Acoustica.  My music has "evolved" into PC based over the past few years.  In 2005 I bought a Zoom MRS802 which is a HDD 8 track workstation.  With it, I bought a Yamaha PSR295 keyboard.  The Zoom, in addition to being a digital recorder, also has a built in drum machine.  In 2005 I had a very slow PC which could never handle MIDI.  In 2009 I bought a Dell Dual Core Pentium PC (specifically requesting Windows XP).  It didn't occur to me right away that I could use MIDI with the new PC (which I bought as an all purpose PC).  I was just thinking how much faster Kristal Audio would run, as my method at that time was to export the tracks from the 802 to the PC and mix down using the free Kristal Audio Engine and Audacity.

It didn't take too long to put 2 + 2 together though and I soon started thinking out the process.  I thought "Let's see.  My keyboard has a USB out which they say works with MIDI.  My new PC is faster and has a USB In.  So how does that work?  Can I plug the keyboard into the PC via the USB and PLAY SOMETHING on the PC?"  Through research, I found all I needed to get my MIDI setup going.  I find it somewhat ironic that MIDI is so controversial as you either love it or hate it, but I've also come to the conclusion how great MIDI can sound if it's programmed/played correctly.  Personally, I love it and I'm fascinated by the whole concept of it.  MIDI truely is the way of making music for the 21st century.  Some like that and some don't but it's becoming an undeniable fact.  Even pros in the recording and movie industry use it.

 :) John B.

I alternate beween DAWS and my BOSS BR1200.  At the moment Im going through a DAW phase using Cubase Studio 5, its a pretty comprehensive and complicated piece of sofware but the possibilities it allows make the pain of getting to grips with it wortwhile. I also use FL Studio for creating audio loops for use in Cubase and importing in to BR1200.


The thing I find with Computer Recording is that I get 16 bars going and end up just looping the 16 bars, endlessly tweaking.

In the end I think recording with the BOSs is just more fun, dont know why maybe its the limitations compared to a PC DAW set up, you spend more time recording a less time fiddling.

BOSS BR1200  because its fun and the guitar sims are great
FLStudio     because it a like an audio swiss army knife
Cubase        because its hard core serious and German  :)
Typing this  beacuse theres nothing on TV and Ive cut my index finger deep so no guitar noodling for a while.

See ya

Ian

Learning work-arounds with the BR-800 while I'm deployed. I used the BR-600 in all other travel situations before this. When I'm home I use a DAW setup with Logic Studio.

Updated my "vote" :D

Yes, I now use the BR800, but don't think I'll stop using the MicroBR anytime soon ... in fact if Roland decided to discontinue the MicroBR, I'd probably by a couple to be sure I had one for the rest of my life ;D

I still have the Korg D16, and might use it on a rare occation, but I guess I'll remove it from my vote eventually.

I guess I'll have to find time to learn Sonar LE too ..... but still use audacity for simple trimming and fading....

Quote from: Geir on August 23, 2010, 03:17:05 AMin fact if Roland decided to discontinue the MicroBR, I'd probably by a couple to be sure I had one for the rest of my life ;D

Amen, brother! I'm right with you on that one... !

Quote from: Greeny on August 23, 2010, 05:44:45 AM

Quote from: Geir on August 23, 2010, 03:17:05 AMin fact if Roland decided to discontinue the MicroBR, I'd probably by a couple to be sure I had one for the rest of my life ;D

Amen, brother! I'm right with you on that one... !

Now that's true love.

I'm looking forward into buying the BR-800! Is it nice? :D

Although I'd never put my MicroBR away! ;) It's just so lovely!

Quote from: SenhorLampada on September 12, 2010, 10:07:59 PMI'm looking forward into buying the BR-800! Is it nice? :D

Although I'd never put my MicroBR away! ;) It's just so lovely!

Did you get yourself a BR800 Senhor ??

BTW is it only 5 BR800 users here? I thought we were more by now !!!

Quote from: Geir on December 14, 2010, 01:05:58 PMBTW is it only 5 BR800 users here? I thought we were more by now !!!

The following members have the BR-800 icon in their signatures:

• facemask93
• Ferryman
• Geir
• PJD1
• lubo perunko
• vierge99
• ur2qt2b4got10   (though he hasn't actually bought one yet)

Obviously, at least one of the members above has not indicated their BR-800 ownership in this poll, and there are probably a few others who've neither voted nor included the BR-800 icon in their signature.

I hope anyone who has not yet voted in this poll, or has bought a BR-800 or other recorder since voting, will take a moment to vote.

Instructions for adding a recorder icon to your signature are here:

https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?topic=3609.msg103724#msg103724 (https://songcrafters.org/forum/index.php?topic=3609.msg103724#msg103724)

I have the MBR at the moment, my drummer has the BR600 which seems a little easier to use, our mate has the 900cd and the other geezer has a tascam 24 tracker which he loves. We have used tascam products since they came out with the 4 trackers ( cassette versions) many light years ago and thought they were cool, but now.............wow, where next I wonder?

  I thought about the 600 but the MBR was cheaper and seemed incredible, which it is. How on earth this has been achieved is way beyond any of us in the band. I may upgrade to the 600 or the 800 but I have so much to learn with the gleaming mirror I may never get round to the others. I suppose the possibilities of the gleaming one are endless, I do find the menus a little phone like and difficult to get around, the buttons etc feels rather fragile compared to it's big brothers and I am always a little reluctant when pressing them. After saying all that, it is a wonderous invention, when I got it I could not believe it was real but after playing with it I found out it was more than real.

I find the guitar effects reasonable but have trouble with using distortion when I plug the 1991 Gibson LP in, but I can just about live with it... More later.

Quote from: chip on January 29, 2011, 11:05:16 AMI may upgrade to the 600 or the 800 but I have so much to learn with the gleaming mirror I may never get round to the others.

I have an MBR, and I've played with a BR 600 a bit. I concluded that if I were to upgrade, I'd pass over the BR 600, and go for the BR 800 or upwards. 

Changed my "vote" today ... been 6 months since I used my Korg D16 and can't see I'll take it out of the case anytime soon.

I see we have 11 registered BR800 users .... I have a feeling there's more that has it by now ....

Zoom R16 since last summer.  Used to use a Fostex four track for years, went on e-bay.  Was a toss up with one of the BOSS recorders (have had very happy experiences with BOSS products), probably a BR-800.  Very happy with the Zoom.

Quote from: 64Guitars on December 14, 2010, 02:09:05 PMInstructions for adding a recorder icon to your signature are here:

https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?topic=3609.msg103724#msg103724 (https://songcrafters.org/forum/index.php?topic=3609.msg103724#msg103724)

Thank you, been wondering how that happens for a while...

I've been tempted to try a Zoom for years. They have some really great features. I especially like that they record directly to standard WAV files. I wish Boss would do that and give up on their proprietary format. Storage is getting cheap enough now that data compression is no longer necessary. So uncompressed WAV format would be much better.

But the one thing I really don't like about the Zooms is their low resolution level meters. Getting your levels right is an important part of recording. You can't do that properly with a four-segment level meter. To be fair, some of Boss's recorders aren't that much better with only six segments. But Boss got it right with the BR-800 and its high-resolution, peak-holding level meters. Although, one improvement I wish they'd make is to add an extra segment or LED to indicate when the level goes past 0dB. That's when you get clipping and there's no indication of this on any of the current Boss recorders (nor on the Zooms, as far as I know).

I agree the metering could be better, but it does have a red LED next to the level set pot which lights when it detects clipping.

Quote from: Nick / odh on March 05, 2011, 08:58:18 AMI agree the metering could be better, but it does have a red LED next to the level set pot which lights when it detects clipping.

Yes, but that's just for detecting peaks on the input. It doesn't light if your recording level is too high, causing clipping. The BRs have a peak indicator too. Usually, it's a red LED as on the Zoom. But on the Micro BR they use the word "OVER" in the display instead. It lights when the input signal reaches or exceeds -6dB. So it doesn't really indicate input clipping which is anything above 0dB. Instead, it warns you of the possibility of input clipping. If the peak indicator is lighting frequently, then the signal is probably exceeding 0dB. If it only lights occasionally, then it's probably peaking somewhere between -6dB and 0dB, so you should be alright.

Anyway, I don't mean to knock the Zooms. I think they're excellent recorders. But all recorders, including those from Boss, have their strengths and weaknesses. We can only hope that by pointing out the weaknesses, the manufacturers will take notice and make improvements to the next models they introduce. Boss got it right on the BR-800 with its high-resolution, peak-holding level meters (except for the lack of a clipping indicator). I hope they continue to include hi-res meters in their future recorders. And I hope that they'll add some sort of clipping indicator for record levels on future models too.

Quote from: 64Guitars on March 05, 2011, 11:47:32 AM

Quote from: Nick / odh on March 05, 2011, 08:58:18 AMI agree the metering could be better, but it does have a red LED next to the level set pot which lights when it detects clipping.

Yes, but that's just for detecting peaks on the input. It doesn't light if your recording level is too high, causing clipping. The BRs have a peak indicator too. Usually, it's a red LED as on the Zoom. But on the Micro BR they use the word "OVER" in the display instead. It lights when the input signal reaches or exceeds -6dB. So it doesn't really indicate input clipping which is anything above 0dB. Instead, it warns you of the possibility of input clipping. If the peak indicator is lighting frequently, then the signal is probably exceeding 0dB. If it only lights occasionally, then it's probably peaking somewhere between -6dB and 0dB, so you should be alright.

I see what you mean.

I've used the br900 for about 5 years and love it. I've been recently wanting to upgrade so I won't be bouncing so many tracks but the the 1600 is just so damn expensive. I personally love the drums and the ease at which I can make a track but I have on occasion found the 50 steps too limiting. I also love the cosm effects since I only have an acoustic guitar it very convenient. I've been looking at the Tascam 2488 and for the price it seems to good to be true! Since I really need some monitors, a boss rc-50 ( upgrade from the 20 for gigs), an electronic drum kit oh and I just bought the Fishman AS220, which if your a gigging musician it's the best pa ever!! With all that said I think I'll just keep bouncing tracks for a while!
Rock on!

I think TASCAM makes very good recorders. However, their low-end machines (DP-004, DP-008, and DP-03) have no v-tracks, no drums, and limited effects, compared to the Boss BR series recorders. So, in that price range, I definitely prefer Boss.

But the TASCAM 2488neo has 250 virtual tracks, so that certainly isn't a problem. Not sure how its effects are. Pretty sure it doesn't have a drum machine. But if effects and drums aren't that important to you (for example, if you're keeping the BR-900), then I think the 2488neo is an awesome recorder for the money.

I was wondering if boss made a drum machine set up like the br with the pre-sets,verses, fills and such. I really do like the the way boss lays it out. I've never used another drum machine & I don't really want to learn something new (also a big reason to go 1600) Hadn't thought about using just the 900 for just drums , but I do alot of step, exit, listen, step, exit listen, etc. Not sure how easy a separate drum machine would be, I guess that's another reason to go 1600. But I keep looking at the 2488 and think it just seems like a rockin machine. 80GB, 24 tracks...no more bouncin! I think honestly I should save up and go 1600, if only for learning curve. But for the same money I could get the 2488, a $400-500 electric kit, and the rc-50. Choices, choices....oh yea I'm a musician/entertainer for a living, wife,kids and no extra money currently! I think I shall bounce and bounce and bounce....

Quote from: Hook on August 29, 2011, 11:40:35 AMI think honestly I should save up and go 1600, if only for learning curve.

The BR-1600 is big, heavy, expensive and old. It was first released in January 2004 and had an update in 2005. I don't like investing in old technology so I'd wait and see if Roland retires the 1600 and replaces it with something more modern and affordable.

I can afford to wait!

I use the BR900..and I adore it though although it was easy to get started with it took a fair while to understand it enough to get exactly what you want from it...I do love a challenge though and the learning is so much fun! ;D

Updated my vote today to add the new arrival.
Though still working up the energy to open the manual  ;D so haven't actually managed to use it yet  :P

I too just updated my vote.

During the last year, after buying an iMac, I've changed my approach to home recording.

Although I have a brand new Zoom R16 that replaced my old Boss BR-600, more and more I'm switching from hardware to software. This because now I find everything easier to do, more "visual", with a large screen. It's someway more "immediate".

Actually I use mostly Adobe Audition 4 and Reaper, but I'm beginning to get in touch with Presonus Studio One 2. It seems very, very good and easy too.

Alfredo

Updated mine as well, as my MBR is in rehab (from coffee-spill ;D) in London and I don't really use DAWs for recording, only trimming and converting to mp3. So all I'm left with for now is my BR800

UPDATED MY VOTE AGAIN ! ;D ;D

and my signature ;D ;D ;D

Hey, that's great Geir!  I think the BR-800 and BR-80 are a good combination. One for the home studio and one for anywhere. I can't wait to hear what you'll be creating with that BR duo.

Quote from: 64Guitars on December 31, 2011, 06:30:29 PMHey, that's great Geir!  I think the BR-800 and BR-80 are a good combination. One for the home studio and one for anywhere.

I think so too. Just started a new track yesterday and discovered how much I've been missing my mbr. So when I left for work today my MBR80 was in my shirt pocket, so I can do some drum-programming in my lunch-break. :D and maybe stop on the way home to record some vocals at a bus-stop ;D

Well looks as if this pole speaks for its self I'd been reading around and after years of jerking around with latency laden crappy software's that boasted more smoke than steam I decided I needed an interface to do the translating between ones and zero's for me and in December I got what was suppose to be an NOS Micro-BR.
When I opened it up I found it was anything but NOS there was only one real problem that was the fact that the demo song was missing from the card other than that the cosmetics were fine and I've actually used it to record a rather tasty sounding acoustic guitar track using only the Micro-BR and a cheap microphone from a karaoke machine,and true to the idea the sound came out as if it were done by a professional studio. ;D
I've yet to learn to control the arrangement segment of the rhythm(drum machine)part but I can say this it sure beats most of the midi drum tracks I've found in cakewalk etc,but on the other hand there are a couple things that I don't care for most of it deals with the instruction manual they are not very clear as to what steps you have to take to set up the drums and really recording a general track.
At any rate I'm new to this forum and glad there's a place I can go to get general information on this micro studio thanks to everyone who is here and have taken the time to help out new guys such as myself. :D     

Quote from: Bucketfreak68 on January 19, 2012, 04:35:59 AMI've yet to learn to control the arrangement segment of the rhythm(drum machine)part but I can say this it sure beats most of the midi drum tracks I've found in cakewalk etc,but on the other hand there are a couple things that I don't care for most of it deals with the instruction manual they are not very clear as to what steps you have to take to set up the drums and really recording a general track.

Drum programming is pretty easy once you understand it. The three biggest obstacles for new users are:

1) Each step in an arrangement repeats until the Starting Measure of the next step. So if you want the first step to play its pattern for four measures, you'd set the Starting Measure of the second step to 5 (step 1 always starts at measure 1).

2) Patterns are generally several measures long (see page 120 of the Micro BR manual where the rightmost six columns show the length of the pattern in measures). The reason that the patterns are several measures long is that they contain variations on the basic pattern to keep it interesting. So you don't need as many fills as you might think. But to hear all of the variations, you have to make sure that the length of the step is at least as long as the pattern. For example, if the pattern specified in step 7 is 4 measures long and starts at measure 34, then you probably want step 8 to start at measure 38 (or 42, 46, 50, or some other multiple of 4). Otherwise, the pattern will stop before the last of the four measures plays. There may be times when you want that to happen. But usually you'll want the whole pattern to play. The mistake that beginners often make is to make step 2 start at measure 2, step 3 at measure 3, step 4 at measure 4, etc. If you do that, you'll never hear the full pattern, and you'll quickly run out of steps. Your arrangement can have a maximum of 50 steps. If you set the starting measure of each step to the step number, then each step is only one measure long which means your song can only have a maximum of 50 measures. To avoid running out of steps, make sure you set your Starting Measures correctly so that the steps will each play for several measures.

3) The last step of an arrangement repeats until you press the STOP button. So, how do you end your arrangement? By setting the last step to pattern P327:BREAK. This pattern plays nothing. So, even though it repeats until you press STOP, you won't hear anything, so the arrangement effectively ends at the start of that step.

More info here:

https://songcrafters.org/64guitars/BR/Tutorials/Rhythm_Guide_Intro.html (https://songcrafters.org/64guitars/BR/Tutorials/Rhythm_Guide_Intro.html)

https://songcrafters.org/64guitars/BR/Tutorials/Arrangement_Example.html (https://songcrafters.org/64guitars/BR/Tutorials/Arrangement_Example.html)

It's not specifically for the Micro BR but they all work basically the same.


You might also find the Micro BR DVD video tutorial helpful. Here's a short extract from it.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q5og5FoQRic

You can purchase the full DVD video for only $29.95 here:

http://www.proaudiodvds.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=Micro%2DBR&Click=2040 (http://www.proaudiodvds.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=Micro%2DBR&Click=2040)

Thanks for the info 64guitars BTW stopped by your site this morning or yesterday morning good stuff man looks like I came to the right place for this particular rig. 

Here's my vote. I like my BR-800 pretty much. And I still owe an extra effort to start using Sonar LE DAW too. I wish I have more time for recording :(.

I have a Micro-Br which I've had tons of fun with.  Just got the Br-80 and my dad will inherit from the Micro!  Amazing to share those wicked tools within the family!

I'm currently using the micro br 80 as an audio interface into Garageband. Love the sounds in the br 80 and the simplicity of Garageband.

I'm happy.

Quote from: Geiri on July 24, 2012, 11:01:52 PMI'm currently using the micro br 80 as an audio interface into Garageband. Love the sounds in the br 80 and the simplicity of Garageband.

Another option is to record all of your tracks on the BR-80, then export them to WAV files using the BR Wave Converter software and bring them into GarageBand for final mixing and editing. The advantage is that you don't need to be near a computer while laying down your tracks (the fantastic portability of a pocket-sized recorder like the BR-80 is lost when it's tethered to a computer). And you still have the convenience of GarageBand for assembling your tracks, editing, mixing, and mastering.

You can download the Mac version of BR Wave Converter here:

http://www.roland.com/support/article/?q=downloads&p=BR%2D80&id=62121892 (http://www.roland.com/support/article/?q=downloads&p=BR%2D80&id=62121892)

Thank you 64guitars

Yes I see the advantages in that and this is the reason I initially bought the br 80. But while we are on the subject, I'm on somewhat limited budget right now and would like a few more i/o options when using the br in conjunction with a computer.

My local music shop has offered me a br 800 at a very decent price and they will even take the br 80 as a part of the payment.

I can not afford both at this moment so the question is, how much am I gaining by upgrading ? Especially regarding doing more work on the br and less on the computer ?

I really like the form factor of the br 800 as the portability but to be honest, probably majority of my editing will be done in a computer albeit I haven't really learned to operate the br proberly so I can not say for sure.

Any thoughts and all input is valid and appreciated.

Geiri

There are a few trade-offs between the BR-80 and BR-800. Although I personally would prefer the BR-800, it doesn't win hands down. It depends on the needs of the user. For example, many people love the small size of the BR-80 and consider that one of its greatest advantages over the BR-800. I, on the other hand, don't like tiny gadgets and consider the BR-80's small size a disadvantage. I much prefer the larger size of the BR-800. The larger controls are easier to use, and the BR-800 is more likely to stay put on the tabletop and not be dropped as easily as the BR-80.

The BR-800 is a year older than the BR-80 and this has some consequences. For example, the BR-80 is the first Boss recorder to include USB 2.0. All previous models, including the BR-800, have the much slower USB 1.1. Of course, this is only a factor when you're transferring files directly between the BR and your computer. You can also transfer files by removing the memory card from the BR and inserting it into a USB 2.0 (or even USB 3.0) card reader. In that case, the speed is dependant on the card reader and your computer, so it doesn't matter which version of USB is in the BR.

The BR-80 comes with SONAR X1 LE, while the BR-800 comes with SONAR 8.5 LE, which is a slightly older version (if you do decide to trade in your BR-80 for a BR-800, make a copy of the BR-80 DVD-ROM so you'll still have SONAR X1 LE).

One big advantage of the BR-800 over the BR-80 is that you can use the BR-800 as a Control Surface for SONAR and other DAWs that support Mackie controls. You might be able to use it to control GarageBand.

http://ilivingtheilife.blogspot.ca/2009/04/unknown-to-many-users-of-apples.html (http://ilivingtheilife.blogspot.ca/2009/04/unknown-to-many-users-of-apples.html)

The advantage of a control surface is that it allows you to mix in your DAW with real fader controls (on the BR) instead of dragging virtual sliders with the mouse. You also have real transport controls for STOP, PLAY, REC, FF, REW, etc. These real controls can make the DAW a lot easier to use.

The drum machine in the BR-80 is a bit easier to use. In the BR-800 and earlier BRs, you had to specify the Starting Measure of each step of your drum arrangement. This was hard to relate to and could be difficult, especially when inserting new steps into an existing arrangement. With the BR-80, you specify step length (in measures) instead of the starting measure. This is much more practical and matches the way we naturally think of drum arrangements (a 2-measure intro, followed by 8 measures of this pattern, then 4 measures of another, and so on).

Well you haven't pointed to anything I would call a down point in my situation.

All my final arrangement will ultimately be done in a DAW. The br drums will for the most part only be used to keep me in time, mind you tho I haven't used and who knows maby I'll like them. The size is a big factor for me, I actually find the br-80 a bit to small and light weight.

I've been thinking about how I can have the best of both worlds and considering the i/o of the 800 I think that the 800 and a computer should do the trick for me.

The way I use the 80 right now is just as an audio interface for my computer. And due to the small screen and scrolling through multiple menus I find it easier to use the DAW for recording.

Up until earlier this year, I've been using Tascam Dp-004. Recently I picked up a Boss BR-864 and can't wait to dig in. Been messing around with the COSM effects mostly.

Just changed my vote as I've added a Tascam DP-006 to my BR-800.

i can't believe my microbr is still going strong (touch wood) i wonder if we should start a fresh poll to see who still has one, saying that the list will need to be lengthened for all hook's purchases. 

I actually have 3 BR's!

My original Micro BR broke after I dropped it and smash the display screen, and since then I have purchased two more.

I have never thrown away my original BR, despite the fact that it doesn't work, and never will....far too much sentimental value attached to it.

Am currently considering the BR800, but will always keep my magic little shiny box(es)

My original MBR. Still going strong, with the same memory card and slip case it came with. The finish is a bit worn in places, but other than that it's all good.

(http://nyc3img.soundclick.com/23/imgPages/2/4/4636122_754358.jpg?version=88)

that looks brand new compared to mine. mine looks like a used bar of soap. i must take a pic of it.

update. took a pic.

Ah... the silver brick of dreams

Quote from: Tangled Wires on May 02, 2014, 06:13:31 AMMy original Micro BR broke after I dropped it and smash the display screen, and since then I have purchased two more.

Were they new or second hand recorders? Currently, I have two MBRs and Päivi uses the newer.

I dropped the original, too and since then there has been bad connection on the left channel of phones socket. I'm looking for a  "new" secondhand MBR, because it may be hard to find a new one, anymore.

Quote from: Tangled Wires on May 02, 2014, 06:13:31 AMMy original Micro BR broke after I dropped it and smash the display screen, and since then I have purchased two more.

I have never thrown away my original BR, despite the fact that it doesn't work, and never will....far too much sentimental value attached to it.

And a great source of spare parts, such as the headphone jack (https://songcrafters.org/forum/index.php?topic=20980.0).

Quote from: 64Guitars on May 02, 2014, 11:42:28 AMAnd a great source of spare parts, such as the headphone jack (https://songcrafters.org/forum/index.php?topic=20980.0).

Now why didn't I think of that  ??? ???

Quote from: Redler on May 02, 2014, 10:03:20 AMWere they new or second hand recorders? Currently, I have two MBRs and Päivi uses the newer.

My original was brought back in 2007 and was brand new. It's replacement was also new, however the third one I brought was second hand off a friend who never got to grips with it.

Still see plenty of used MBR's on Ebay Kari that look in pretty good nick.

(https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=3107.0;attach=23058)

My first MBR turned 5 years a few weeks ago :D

Battered looking Micro BR's are truly a thing of beauty :)

Quote from: Tangled Wires on May 04, 2014, 12:52:30 PMBattered looking Micro BR's are truly a thing of beauty :)

       Yep, but battered fish looks better... :D

                                                         henwrench

Quote from: Tangled Wires on May 02, 2014, 06:13:31 AMMy original Micro BR broke after I dropped it and smash the display screen, and since then I have purchased two more.

I too still have my original MBR after I zapped it with the wrong adapter. It's a keeper for spare parts, if I ever need them.

Well I know this is an old thread, but it does seem the right place to give a shout-out to this old beast of a machine. It's been boxed-up for a few years, and recently I gave it freedom with the intention of perhaps recording new stuff, and everything has worked perfectly. Well done Boss. And now that the rain has finally stopped in this part of the U.K., I've brought it in from the Man-Cave to see if I can get an acoustic guitar laid down. I think I bought this new in about 2006, but it hasn't shown any sign of wear as yet – I believe the 'sticky-buttons' come first. I'll keep a watch on things.  8)

(https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/pw/AIL4fc9Hf8allN4ZhpsI9wpNCwXz3ab0w9ax7UaSvYZFI_L2A9gDl6DwO7lI_Um2CxtCWWduOqLDEktuw4vqEr56kmimcxjkzZ4nnW4uI5uQHQ-nj0-TpJkUuPDK6kBHtz1rXu9WGIh0MD_cpiKOlBmRQmZCflvJXforetPL3LHe9AD4TtidTRvvxDd_NWtxJN5zsW32hk5vDTaC41Wu69ItjtpS0tTUMQi1gfeyWS88r3ZuYq5fAQoqNlaf15jqQ7HheBdFIhK70dqf4tC5SNvEgs2vg0eYVT6USCfeuov-sRyzs1XCGi42q8fU0DDMGAV124cyY0NNntaBg-qIOg8i2mcqNtMocrUMPR3uGzfgBr66XZ7u_D0h83DoSmAZDmJaJyulIrWRrsADmGheaJddr4Ky5cFIEdaWIczlb3rbCdC5YzU6vKptYmcZzSo7ZZNh1-tOxxxaVxUS4omhyHCvH0DCybstFy6gNO5pmmTbWcEvNp9U0m0bZZvL8iYJSQGwyKJYOn6G6borGxU4LL23-uW9zU5cdNhBNJRXdmRkbavHnA8bxL29ObnnSSROlhB6Q32AI3AaSnzbf7FrdL3wyjZ_UCA8Kl7ZV3xqygrNpNzsTGqAkGZQ7FU6gymhbnHyy-km5haHAyIlpcNtCCo78CoJBI0kfSF_3bI_jA-3krdNH2KW8wwjhd3Y5Hg7oUODu8SHB8h63J73ILgEcZQkwjvnUhBjAdHmtt5UAOm6GFijKzOL5DNs4-AkNusJODcMaoBTsQnGB-S-LzmkwD5wY6mCH1o9Tn3aYtpAZ8I9OFZITc4CzVJW54g3fvrw7M-ivwSKDaD6nsiKu62EkC1WNNwFvJrqJIUuhSGp8WPY5jyvHBVB3EPrTyhXkhxLyN5JhPJxyOX4god9XrELqizI0w=w900-h626-s-no?authuser=0)


I've literally forgotten how to attach an image properly. I'll plod on.

The machine by the way is the BR1200.

old threads are good threads... most folks record on DAW now but I record still on decks... currently the Zoom L-20... a wonderful tool but not really made as a multitrack recorder.  It was designed to be a mixer for a band that allows you to record 16 mono and 2 stereo tracks all at the same time.  You can record multitrack one at a time.  There is no bouncing etc.  The only way to move tracks around is to export the file to a usb storage and back into the recorder.
I would say it is a very good mixer although it does not have the ability to send mixes to stage and inputs from the stage via cat cable like most more expensive modern mixers do... NO one uses snakes anymore... it's all cat cable etc.  For what I do though I love it...

I still use my BR 1600 for guitar and bass and drum (once in a while) patches... I love some of the sounds inside.  I recorded alot of songs on the BR and I had 2 of them synched together which works well... however it got to where I could not get files off the thing anymore... the old tech inside doesn't like talking to newer computers... the other bugger is the mic preamps are just not very good imo...
so when I use it now I send out analog to my zoom and record there...lol..

and I have a Zoom R24 which to me is an amazing tool for musicians who record or songwriters... can run on 6 AA batteries.... can be used as a mixer live in a pinch...(not the greatest thing)... but it is a very powerful multitrack recorder that has lots of bells and whistles and is small and light and has onboard condenser mics which do a very good job... I think if you wanted a really nice small versatile recorder this is the one to get...

I do alot of mixing on DAW but I don't record on DAW... just never have yet... I have had problems getting my devices to be seen with the software... so I just take the files off and put them on the computer and upload them...