Joshua_Tree_Hugger said:
Can't you get standalone recorders (e.g. 4-track, 8-track etc)? Would they be better than hooking it up to a computer?
The advantages of digital computer recording is, if you are using a click track and can keep time, you can merge multiple takes into one perfect track. You can do punch-ins without having to have someone else on standby to hit a record button.
You can add effects such as compression, delay, reverb, etc. Even with the Roland digital studios, you are limited on how much you can do. With the computer you are only limited by your RAM and your computers speed.
You can create track of other instrument via midi..ie. add the piano part for Miracle Drug without having a piano.
I use Logic on a Mac and it is great. Protools is excellent, but much more expensive and not as user friendly. I have heard that reason is good for PC users.
Down side is portibility unless you run it on a lap top then it is prefect for sequences. I know a few U2 tributes that run their track this way. Also, you are limited on inputs based on what kind of interface you get.
As for running direct, most direct outs for amps suck in my opinion. I have 2 Vox Valvetronix amps and they lack the balls via the direct out that the speakers put out. The Line 6 Pod is good, but reguires a bit of patience to dial in a good sound.
I still prefer to mic speakers with SM57 or doing something a bit further back with a 414.