Guitar players are a very particular bunch, aren’t we? We’re known for accumulating massive collections of gear throughout our careers. We scrape together enough money to buy a new axe, pedal, or amp without even considering how we’ll actually record our music. In fact, some of us balk at the thought of spending any money on recording gear — those dollars could be easily funneled into improved guitar gear! If this is sounding familiar and you’d rather get your recording gear on the cheap, you’ve come to the right place. For the purposes of this article, we asked the professionals around Sweetwater for wallet-friendly recording solutions, and they delivered. Read onward, and you’re sure to come across a product that will get you ready to affordably record your own music.
TASCAM DP-03SD
First up on our list is the DP-03SD from TASCAM. This portable multitrack recorder packs plenty of features and processing power into a small, easily stored package. You can record up to eight tracks of audio and create full arrangements without touching a DAW. The DP-03SD has an onboard metronome, a tuner, reverb, and a 2-band EQ for all channels. It even has a built-in microphone to record vocal scratch tracks! Want to import your tracks into your DAW? Just plug the SD/SDHC card into your computer, transfer the files to your drive, and you’re off to the races. If you’re looking for an impressive all-in-one recorder, the TASCAM DP-03SD is the way to go.
Zoom H4n Pro Handy Recorder
Next up on our list is the Zoom H4n Pro AB Handy Recorder. While you can use it for recording interviews, the H4n Pro functions perfectly as a 2-in/2-out USB audio interface for Mac and PC. This handheld recording interface can capture audio in stunning 24-bit/96kHz resolution and has tons of onboard effects and built-in amp models that you can use to find the perfect tone. The H4n also includes a download of Cubase LE for recording and arranging your music. When inspiration strikes, the Zoom H4n Pro Handy Recorder will be ready to capture your ideas.
Audient Sono
Created in collaboration with Two Notes, the Audient Sono is an interface that’s designed for guitarists. It packs a feature-rich punch, thanks to the integrated 12AX7 tube preamp, the 3-band EQ, and its rock-solid signal processing. This USB audio interface has a few tricks up its sleeve, too. Once you dial in your tone, you can select from a range of cabinet models. You can even choose the type of mic, the brand of cab, the microphone placement, and the room type. The Sono also performs double duty as a re-amping box without the need for a separate device. For recording with mics, you get Audient’s impressive Class A microphone pres that capture impressive detail with a very low noise floor.
Line 6 POD Studio Series
Line 6 is known for creating accessible products for musicians of all skill levels. The POD Studio Series of audio interfaces is no different. You don’t have to be a studio professional to use the Line 6 POD because these interfaces feature simplified controls for guitar players. Within this series of products, you’re sure to find the one that fits your needs.
For the utmost in simplicity, the GX is your best friend. It’s a single channel interface that’s designed specifically for recording guitar and bass. It also comes with the free POD Farm plug-in that enables you to experiment with nearly perfect re-creations of classic amps, stompboxes, and much more!
The mid-level offering from the POD Studio Series is the UX1. This 3-channel interface allows you to record guitar, vocals, and stereo line sources. The UX1 also has a headphone output for monitoring your levels while you track. Built for the advancing musician, the UX1 gives you access to greater recording capabilities.
If you need more, you can pick up the UX2. Boasting five channels of operation, this mighty, little interface can track just about any instrument in your arsenal. It has two microphone inputs, two hi-Z guitar inputs, and stereo line inputs for external gear. To top it all off, the UX2 has VU metering for at-a-glance level monitoring.
iZotope Spire Studio
The iZotope Spire Studio is an iOS/Android interface and recording system that you can take anywhere. This completely wireless interface connects to your iOS or Android device, so you can record your song ideas whenever inspiration strikes. The Spire Studio is loaded with a pair of combo mic/line inputs, so you can record a 2-person jam session or a mic and guitar at the same time. As your recording skill increases, you can add up to eight tracks to add depth to your song.
Orange OMEC Teleport
The OMEC Teleport from Orange is a compact USB audio interface that fits on your pedalboard. Simply attach it to the end of your board and plug it into your computer. Since there are no drivers to update, you can plug it right into your computer and get recording. If you play onstage, you can use the OMEC Teleport to inject the digital effects on your computer into your analog signal chain. Best of all, it’s got a buffered bypass, so it won’t load down your signal. The Orange OMEC Teleport gives you plenty to experiment with without taking up valuable pedalboard real estate.
IK Multimedia iRig Series
The iRig Series from IK Multimedia is designed to make recording easier than ever before. Designed specifically for the needs of today’s guitar players, these USB interfaces are compatible with smartphones, tablets, and computers. With iRig devices, you can record anything, anywhere, at any time.
There are tons of great iRig Series products to choose from. Need something simple and straightforward? The iRig HD 2 portable interface is your best bet. It has a pair of 1/4″ inputs, a set of volume and gain controls, and the capability to plug directly into your laptop, computer, iPhone, or iPad.
For a middle-of-the-road option, the pint-sized iRig Pro I/O is an excellent option. Boasting a combination mic/line input, this incredibly portable interface delivers studio-quality audio resolution and fits in your pocket. How awesome is that?
If you need a little more versatility, make sure to consider the iRig Pro Duo I/O. This portable USB interface lets you record song ideas anywhere, so long as you have a computer or smart device handy. It even includes phantom power for condenser microphones.
Apogee Jam+
The Apogee Jam+ packs impressive functionality into an easy-to-use package. To get up and running, just plug your axe into the input, connect the output to your computer, and get started. It’s compatible with Mac, PC, and iOS and has no annoying drivers to install or compatibility issues to solve. The Jam+ includes a free download of Positive Grid BIAS FX Jam, which gives you extra creative options including amp and effects emulations. If you’re a guitarist who enjoys simplicity, you’ll love the Jam+.
Record Your Ideas – You’ll Be Glad You Did
Whatever gear you use, recording your own tracks is a fun and enjoyable experience. Whether you’re just recording your morning practice session or laying down hard-hitting riffs for a new project, listening back to your ideas can be helpful and nostalgic. So, grab yourself an interface, lay down some tracks, and let them sit for a while. When you listen back in a few days or a few years, you might find a lick or a melody that you’ve forgotten about. Trust us, you’ll be glad you took the time to record them. If you’re ready to start recording, don’t hesitate to call your Sweetwater Sales Engineer at (800) 222-4700. We’ll be happy to help you work through all of your recording-related questions.
