JM wrote:

My specific question is this: While my current setup is certainly nothing
to put on the cover of Mix, I have gotten very good sounds from it, and the
comfort factor is very high. If I put it all aside in favor of a basic
(i.e., cheap) pc-based recording solution, would I be losing or gaining?

Scott Dorsey wrote:

You might also consider a Tascam DA-38 machine. This gives you digital
recording without having to make many changes in the way you work;

Replacing the recorder with a newer, more reliable
deck makes sense, but how about a hard disk
like the HD24 ?

If you do a lot of editing, the 1" machine is a clear win. If you don't,
I think the DA-38 is a clear win. Both will let you keep working the same
way you always have without having to learn anything about computers or
set up a DAW.

I'm just looking for perspectives and opinions.

It's entirely possible to get a DAW and treat it like a fancy tape recorder
too. That's what I do when I'm dropped onto one of the things... I just
roll tape and do some occasional editing. You can take the DAW road and
not make too huge a change in your working procedure too, although the
amount of up-front learning is higher.

You know, the more I think about it, the more I think you need a DA-38.
But that's just me. I avoid computers unless necessary.

From the looks of the equipment list, you'de still be
mixing down to DAT. This is where the computer
starts to make more sense. Mix down to 2 track,
edit and burn CD masters or copies on the PC
without the need for lots of multichannel I/O.
just my 2c.

rd