Expert: Wayne Tapia - 5/29/2009

Question
I'm very new to home recording and don't know much at all.I have the Alpha Smart Desktop Recorder with Cubase LE and I'm battling to learn how to use it, even with the online manual ! Now I'm thinking of getting the Zoom H2 or H4 so I can directly record my acoustic guitar for rhythym and then play a second lead riff on it using effects. Can I also add keyboards, bass and drums ( using a drum machine later ?). Can I then load the music onto the PC and use Cubase to edit, etc, if necessary. I'm so sorry for the confusing questions but I'm really struggling to understand all this and all I want to do is demo my own music. I think I read somewhere that you can't overdub with the H2 ?  Thanks

Answer
I'm not familiar with the Alphasmart unit you're referring to. You should be able to record directly into Cubase. I'd suggest getting a good microphone (possibly a USB ready mic like Rode & Blue manufacture) and skip the Alphasmart unit. Usinf the H4 or H2 would be an unnecessary step in the process, and a time consuming one as well.

Within Cubase, you should be able to use your computer's line input as well for any keyboards & drum machines you plan on using.