[bobeakin]

I want set up a home recording studio. What hardware do I need in a computer for the best quality and little noise? I not really computer savvy, but pretty much know the basics. Any help will be appreciated.
Thanks

[mjd420nova]

The entire installation must start with the analog audio section first, then the interface to the computer. Most audio sound cards only have 4 inputs and 4 outputs. A good studio would really need an external mixer with inputs for phono, tapes and disc. Because the limited inputs to record are part of the PC and its software, the mixing should be done before and the final or master output recorded and assigned to the release media. Most all sound cards come with a suite of programs to control and manipulate the content before burning a CD/DVD. To publish any of your generated output, you need to be sure you record it in a format compatible with the player that will recieve that media. It is possible to make discs that can only be played on your PC or only those PCs that can match the parameters you decided on. An example is that I can record analog tracks and burn them using 24 bit when 16 bit is the most compatible but they will play on my unit. Another PC with a sound card that can recognized and play 24 bit media would most likely play fine. The first step would be to look at the parameters of the soundcards and choose what looks best and fits your price target. Creative makes some very good cards with some awesome collection of programs and parameter options. Most built-in/on-board audio hardware is fine for the majority of users but just isn't good enough for a studio application. Care should be taken during the card install to keep analog/digital lines/cables away from power cable and connectors. In extreme conditions, some sheilding may be called for to eliminate static and hum. Connectors providing input and output signals are the most prone to bad connectivity and induce clicks and pops. Another very important point when connecting this altogether is to pay very close attention to phasing and ground loops.

[Evildave]

For good fidelity and low noise, the analog stages ALL must be outside that metal box of horrors that is your PC.

It's going to be impossible to find an internal 'sound card' or motherboard sound that isn't flooded with noise from your PC's innards. Noisy power supply, motherboard, seeking hard disk, etc. Everything adds noise.

They build PCs to make noise, not to sample any better than a 'VOIP' or session of gaming requires.

Generally speaking, the analog stages need to be OUTSIDE the PC, and it needs its own power supply, unless there's pretty wonderful filtering on any USB power it's drawing.

A battery run wireless digital studio microphone is something to consider, if you're on a budget. Don't skimp on the cost of this detail. You can get a lot of other things cheaper to make up for it.
http://www.google.co...udio+microphone

Having the microphone be digital means all of the noise-collecting analog stages are there in the microphone its self. Once it's digital, no additional noise will be added until YOU add it with compression or other artifacts.

As stupid as it sounds, you may be able to get better results sampling audio with your 'smart phone' or bluetooth headset than plugging a $500 microphone into your PC's analog 'Mic In' port.

Do your shopping and read what the audiophiles have to say about whatever you consider.

A word of caution: Not all glowing consumer reviews are reliable.

[bobeakin]

Thanks for the info mjd420nova and Evildave, I appreciate it.