Hey y'all, i'm just visiting for the first time (bit of a regular over at KC) as i need some advice on basic recording gear.

I'm doing a lot of composition and have done professional work purely sequencing in Reason and Cubase, but am looking to finally get into the real realms of audio. Have done a lot of research, and intend to get some capital together and maybe set up a half decent studio in around a year, but for now i just want the basics so i can really mess around and get into the principals of sound recording.

SO i figure what i need is simply a couple of mics, some software, and an audio interface. I've already done some research but thought i'd run my ideas past you. One thing to keep in mind is that i live in a magical land far far away: i can't necessarily get access to the same gear as you, especially at good prices.

Lastly, there's nothing particular i want to record right now: i intend to try everything i can on my limited resources, and can borrow gear from friends if i want to try out drums etc. The plan is to get gear that won't be obsolete once i get a heap more gear!

Phew, now for it:

Mics - after reading some SOS articles on setting up a cabinet, i figure i might just start with a basic dynamic and a mid level large diaphram condenser.
a) should i just go for an SM57 or are the alternatives, such as an Audix OM2, really worth checking out?
b) Any thoughts comparing the following condensers: Rode NT1-A, AKG C3000b, Behringer B2.
Naturally the B2 isn't as reputable a brand, but it offers extra polar patterns - are these a must have? If so, how about the Rode NT2 or NT2000 or is that overkill for me?
c) Would a small diaphram condenser eg. AKG C1000 be as versatile? A couple of these may well be the next option...

Soundcards - Pretty much just looking at a couple of versatile inputs via USB. How about the Edirol UA25, Tascam (um what's that purple one called?), M-Audio Mobile Pre or else i could get a Novation X-station midi controller which has similar inputs? I'm reasonably familiar with the features of each of these, but am too inexperienced to form a valid opinion about their sound quality etc!

Software - Will invest in either Cubase SX3 which i've used a fair bit or possibly go Mac and Logic Pro 7; what's a good budget option in the meantime? Cubase SE3? Or should i just go for SX anyway in the knowledge that it'll last well later on?

I think that's about it... sorry to be so long winded, cheers for any advice on offer!

Cheers,
JJJ
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