MOTM

> Just what is available that allow me to record a good quality CD of
> my little quartet?  I would really appreciate the group's comments.

The key element is not the software, it's the mic's and pre's. Also, working
in 24-bit and having good DAC's (I'll second the Apogee recommendation).

If you find the idea of de-bugging a computer and learning new software to
be daunting, why not spend the money instead on studio time? All you have to
do is perform, and you'll have access to some great (and expensive) mics,
pre's, a good board, and a professional engineer who will make you sound
great. You can get a great sounding recording for thousands less than
putting together your own studio, odds are it will be less frustrating for
you and will sound better, and by the time you're ready to do your next
recording sessions you won't be looking with disdain at your
computer/software that needs updating. Sometimes a home recording studio is
the wrong approach...

(but sometimes it's the right one...)

Another option is a standalone DAW which is NOT computer-based, like a
Darwin or a DA8. These give you waveform editing, are non-linear, and rarely
- if ever - crash. These are 16-bit, although I think the Darwin's DAC's
sound fantastic and at their current sticker price, <shrug>

best,
- Scott
____________
http://www.red-noise.com
http://www.strawberryplanet.org