Audio Interface or USB mic?

[osmun79]

I am looking to spend under $200 on something to record my acoustic guitar and vocals, preferably simultaneously. I have a cable and a Shure SM 57 mic at home, but no way to plug either one of them into my Macbook ( I use Garageband). I like the M-Audio Fast Track's but they are a little pricey. Someone told me some of the USB condenser/dynamics will pick up both singing and guitar simultaneously, although I would love to just plug in and go.

Any Ideas?

[Dusty Chalk]

MHO: I've done that, but you're kind of stuck with the "mix" -- and mono at that -- it can be done (by adjusting the angle and distance between the two sound sources), but it's not recommended. I think you'd be better off getting a second (cheap) mic (I've gotten half decent mics for free by buying mic stands, if you can believe that) and something that will take two mic inputs. This'll also give you the opportunity to upgrade a piece at a time later, as your hits start smashing their way through the charts. :)

[robotrock]

Well it kinda depends on what you want to do. The USB mic will probably sound good with voice acoustic (I am assuming a large diaphragm condenser). The main issue is that you will be stuck with that rig - can't use a different (or a second) mic - and if you want to, you are back to square one. I would recommend going with an interface, as in the long run, it will serve you better - and just use the 57 for now.