Compact Music Mixer for Recording Audio with Mac

The Alesis Multimix8 USB 2.0 is a compact and handy mixing tool for a small home music studio or recording basement tracks. Its comes ready to record microphones, line-ins, and even guitar level inputs in one audio device. The USB MultiMix not functions as a recording device, its comes with integrate audio effects for mixing and editing purposes (100 onboard effects including delays, flange, reverb, chorus, and others). It functions independently as a digital mixing board, but may be integrate with various recording software for Mac.

The MultiMix is a great starter board at a decent price. It lacks the individual level indicators and effects capabilities of some studio units, but the economical mixing unit does provide quality 24-bit, 96 Khz stereo digital audio via USB 2.0. The MultiMix 8 is an excellent mixer to use as a multichannel USB audio interface. Each channel features a 3 band parametric EQ with mid band pass/reject and high/low shelving.

Alesis MultiMix 8 USB 2.0 Music Mixer for Mac or PC

Designed for low-latency and low-noise, the MultiMix8 delivers high quality audio for recording through USB 2.0. It is capable of fitting up to four XLR microphone cables (each with phantom power), but may suite additional quarter inch line-inputs for recording multiple tracks. Each of the XLR tracks features individual volume control, however 5/6 and 7/8 each share a control.

Its not perfect, the MultiMix8 is great for recording audio with Mac. Truthfully it lacks the power (inputs moreover) to power a full force Apple music studio. However, the MultiMix8 is an ideal USB mixer for solo recording, duets, podcast microphones, and as an introductory board. While it may be slightly lacking in inputs, the USB MultiMix is right at home in a home jam room or music recording studio.

USB 2.0 Alesis MultiMix8 Digital Mixer

Unlike some USB mixers for Mac (including the previous generation of USB MultiMix) the MultiMix8 USB 2.0 has the ability to record each track independently (a key feature for later music editing capabilities). This means each tracks volume may be later adjusted and enhanced to bring out the exact details of the performance. Without such multitrack recording features, the initial recording are immediately compressed to a stereo track (i.e. not as much editing is possible).

This is a music accessory for Mac that will get used. The MultiMix 8 is a great companion to any home recording endeavor. It not only feature phantom power for studio condenser mics, it has dedicated channels for low impedance instrument cable so instruments may be plugged directly into the board and recorded without an amp.

Studio Audio Reference Monitors - High Quality Recording Equipment for Mac or PC

If your looking to start you own home recording studio for Mac or PC nothing beats having a good pair of studio reference monitors. These high quality speakers are designed to bring out the subtle qualities of any music and are ideal for focusing on minute details while mixing. Unlike common speakers, reference monitors deliver clear audio across the entire frequency spectrum. Good studio monitors will provide this clear audio quality at any volume, or place in the room.

M-Audio Studiophile AV 40 Powered Speakers

There are essentially two variants of studio monitors, power and unpowered speakers. Basically powered monitor are the same as unpowered, except with an amp built in. Unpowered speaker sometime function passively (without amplification) but usually one is required to provide an amplifier for such speakers. Honestly, active monitors have a couple of advantages over passive speakers. Namely, powered monitors have built in power amps designed to work with the drivers, and generally are made to provide the most optimal audio performance. Unpowered speakers sometimes do not deliver such audio quality. Bi-amplification further refines the concept by dedicating separate power amps to the highs and lows. Combined with a finely tuned crossover, this design insures that both the high- and low-frequency drivers are asked to deliver only the frequencies they are most efficient at reproducing. Most high performance monitors will come with bi-amplification (possibly more though).

Reference monitors are designed to deliver true audio quality (not adding or detracting from studio recordings). This means crystal clear sound for focusing on the minutest of textures (sometimes a good or bad thing). Due to the high resolution performance of studio reference monitors they are the ideal multi-channel mixing in any studio environment. These type speakers are intended for critical listening applications, other bookshelf home stereos and even the best desktop speakers simply don't cut it when it comes to mastering applications. The dynamic ranges and bass response of studio quality speakers or studio-headphones simply deliver much realistic sounding audio. While they come at a significantly more substantial price, the added precision in mastering will more than compensate. Audio engineers and producers all choose either studio quality headphones or reference monitors in order to get the desired audio fidelity. 

Alesis M1 Active Studio Monitor Pair

Most reference monitors will have at least two speakers. Well, in reality it has one high resolution tweeter and a specially designed woofer. A good pair will be design to provide a broad listening zone, and not focus the stereo on one spot. This means multiple listeners can achieve and ideal perspective of the stereo image throughout the listening room. A set of great reference monitors will avoid causing significant ear fatigue after hour of use, granting hours of listening without providing annoying treble or invasive bass. Some monitors feature magnetic shielding to eliminate buzz and interference that can exist with other electronics. Shielding reduces the effects monitors have on computer monitors and reduces buzz. 

As stated, if you have interests in creating your own music recording studio, a good pair of studio reference monitors is a necessity. Whether its your collection of recording equipment for Mac or PC you would wish to add to, monitors will deliver the high quality performance for true professional quality mastering.  

Mac Music Recording and Production Equipment

Looking to start recording your own podcast, album or soundtrack with a DIY Apple based home sound studio?

Today, home recording is easier than it has ever been before (especially when using a Mac). Unlike prior digital storage methods, current virtual sound recording can deliver high quality digital audio without significant interference or loss. Whereas digital once was seen as a step down from traditional methods, it is becoming a standard in most recording studios. While the mixers, microphones and software platforms used in many professional studios end up negating the cost advantage of digital audio; nearly anyone can obtain the basics for beginning recording on a Mac.

There are really only two necessary components to beginning recording:
First is sound recording gear; the microphones, FireWire or USB audio interfaces, digital recording consoles, headsets, and any other necessary requirements for software based audio recording. There are many brands available (Mackie, Alesis, M-Audio, Presonus, or Blue - to mention a few). With the availability of products online, it only takes a few days to obtain your own Mac compatible microphone and equipment for recording. When looking at potential music equipment it is always best to consider whether the device will function with your Mac. Unfortunately, many companies remain very proprietary in their audio units compatibility. The first consideration is always whether or not it will function with Mac, the next is whether it will function with the software platform your using. Making sure a device is compatible with multiple suites ensures your gear will function with later software.

The second essential component is the Mac recording software. Luckily for most Macintosh users, the computer comes stocked with some good, basic audio software for recording. While GarageBand does not quite have the plugins or audio quality of apps like Pro Tools or Nuendo, it still packs a decent recording environment. For anyone recording their first album, or an ongoing podcaster, GarageBand can provide an adequate mixing and recording console. With its multi-tracking capabilities, built-in audio plugins, and significant system integration; the recording software is a great introduction to the digital recording world. In the end, if its features are a little lacking, you can always upgrade to a higher performing app.

Regardless to say, recording is hardly the restricted field it once was. While it still requires a small sum to begin any home studio endeavor; it still is possible for anyone with enough ambition, and research to begin their own recording projects. If you are looking to start recording either podcasts, music, or any other audio, creation of a home studio should be a serious consideration.