If I'm interested in doing rap music, what would you recommend?

[Leo K3]

I mostly plan on singing over studio tracks in my home. I have about $2,500 to spend. I plan on purchasing the high-end digital monitors from Roland and using my PC to record. I would also like to buy a rackmount case, a patch bay, and a good "all-in-one" mic. Do you have any suggestions? AS far as rackmount gear, I currently have the DBX vocal Strip and the digitech quad 4. I want to be able to get a really good vocal set in the mix of tracks I exchange with other individuals over the Internet. I use Cool Edit Pro 2.0 to record. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks!!!

[Leo K3]

I forgot to mention, I would like to start working on beat creation, but it's not my focus. I have a Roland MC-505 and I use a number of samples with Fruity Loops 3.0

[J Blazin]

The more I learn the more I discover hardware sounds the best (for now anyway) The MPC's (2-4K) are ideal for beat making but there are many alternatives. I use the Emu MK6, its a great inexpensive keyboard that's expandable, with Pro Tools it does everything I need. I use Reason (software) as well but find myself liking the trax I make with the MK6 (hardware) much better. Continue to research and get opinions, Good luck.

[Leo K3]

Thanks for the insight!

[Kayper]

I produce hip hop...

I use an Emu e6400ultra for all of my instrumentation...MPC2000XL for chopping samples and the pads as a controller for drum patterns. I record to Digital Performer 3.11 where I also mix. I just bought a Roland VM7100, but haven't dug into it yet....

Mic wise - I have an AT4033 mic that I run through a DBX376 mic pre, which sounds really nice for rappers and singers...

I also use Reason and Recycle, which are fun, but I don't use them all the time. I just don't think "computer" when I'm arranging...

To each his own, I guess.

You can hear some of my music at: http://www.soundclick.com/bands/9/kayperbeatsmusic.htm

Good luck.

[wolf_recordings]

You metioned using Cool Edit to record, but sounds like you are still unsure about making beats. You should check out Sonic Foundry's Acid 4.0. You can use it for tons of applications - Metal, Rap, Effects, strange pieces you can't classify, etc. It's a great looping program with recording features. It could basically replace your Cool Edit 2.0.

If you don't have a looping program, you need one - after all, most rap music is several beats, repeated, and repeated, and repeated, and repeated, and repeated... :cool:

(BTW, I have an Audio Technica 4033 as well... great mic...)

[Leo K3]

Hey, I checked out some of your stuff at soundclick. It sounded pretty kewl. I also have some stuff posted at www.soundclick.com/LeoK3
Also in reply to the other post I use Cool Edit Pro and Fruity Loops for the looping program. I've tried Sonic Foundry, and I really wasn't a big fan. We also use turntables, guitars, and bass on our stuff. We've been using an AKG 3000 mic on the vocals, but I'll have to check out that other mic to. Thanks for the suggestions.

[wolf_recordings]

Leo,

I know you said you're not a big fan of Sonic Foundry, but what version did you try? I'm not sure about Fruity Loops's capabilities, but I really like the 5.1 mixing capabilities of Acid 4.0. It really opens up what you can do with panning, etc. Just think, you could be the first on your block to mix 5.1 Rap... :D

Alan

[Leo K3]

I'll have to look in to the newer version of Acid. I know Cool EDit Pro allows you to use Acid files in the mixing mode. Unfortunately, I wouldn't be the first person to mix rap in 5.1 (However, since I live near Amish people I'd definately be the first on my block) The Insane Clown Posse just released a new version of the Wraith mixed in 5.1 Surround Sound a couple days ago. I have yet to buy the DVD audio (Or any ther DVD Audio releases for that matter) but I'd like to hear what it sounds like. Anyways... I'll definately look into Acid again. I think before I used one of the 3.0 versions. You should also look into Fruity Loops. It's got a real nice setup for making beats and editing them very fast.

[wolf_recordings]

I'll have to check out Fruity Loops too. You can never have too many tools. A toolbox with only a hammer is fairly worthless, unless everything is a nail....

Hopefully I'll get a chance to put some of my Acid beats to use soon. I have a friend who keeps promising to hook me up with some rappers that he knows, but he always has some excuse. No big deal though, my main focus/forte is recording rock bands anyway.

Good luck with whatever you decide to do.

Alan

[Leo K3]

I'm big into rock to, but I couldn't find the right people around here to do what I was interested in. I began to write my own stuff, in order to fill the void I felt without music. Fortunately, I found some other people around here also interested in doing studio recordings, and the music has really progressed. Anyways... if you ever come up with some beats and would like someone to sing over them, I'd be happy to do an Internet collaboration. You can check out my music and contact info at www.soundclick.com/LeoK3

I usually like very dark sounding/mood setting music, but I'm pretty open to anything. Plus, if you just lay down a basic beat I play with a guitar/bassist and turntablist (Not to mention myself adding various parts) who could add some more musical parts. Anyways... if your interested get ahold of me.

L8r,

Leo

[SIVYLA]

nice beats you got on that first track

[Leo K3]

Thanks, I'll let you know when we are done with the vocals.