Guitar Recording Software for any Desktop PC

Even if free SW was not your question I will still give you this answer.

There are at least 3 free and fairly good recording SW that are used by GN forum members and they can do all the things you asked for and more.
My recommendation is that you should learn to use one of the free SW ( it takes a time) and then when you find that you are blocked by the limitations in this SW, you will then understand what you really want and can select a recording SW much better.

Most used is Audacity http://audacity.sourceforge.net/ as it is very easy to start with.
Audacity is audio only, no MIDI.
Though it has some delay/latency issues on simple soundcards.

The second most is Kristal Audio Engine (KAE) http://www.kreatives.org/kristal/ .
With a user interface more like proffessional SW, it has a higher learn-in treshhold-
KAE is also audio only, no MIDI.
To avoid delay/latency problems KAE supports ASIO 2 sound drivers.
A free one is Asio4All http://www.asio4all.com/

Another recording SW is Reaper http://www.cockos.com/reaper/download.php that has a free version v0.999 http://www.cockos.com/reaper/download-old-0x.php
Reaper is Audio and Midi and supports Asio 2 driver.

Connecting a guitars and mics to a PC soundcard is a different story/question and is not really connected to the selection of recording SW.

If you do want to go commercial, get yourself a soundcard or USB-interface to connect mics/line-outs to your pc. Plenty good ones come with Cubase LE, a very nice multi-track sequencer, full ASIO and VST support and tons of build in effects. This should run you a total of 100-150 for both. You could look at Cubase SE, which is around $300 stand-alone but it won't add much to what you're after plus you'll still need a USB-interface or soundcard.

I personally went with an E-mu 0404. Comes not only with Cubase but also some other tools, like the awesome E-mu virtual mixer.

Kalle pretty much covered the freebies extremely well. Since you *do* have a budget allocated, I'd recommend you take a good look at the most recent version of Reaper, or Mackie's Tracktion software (there's a downloadable demo to try)

Most of the ones that are "classed" together do mostly the same thing. It's just the visual interface that is different which makes some have an easy work flow and some not so easy.

Go to your local shop (GC, Daddies, etc...) and check them out. They show you what they look like and they will have the "Minimum requirements" written on the box. Or, go online to Musican'sFriend.com and look at them.

I agree with Arjen.
Go the HardWare road and buy a good soundcard as the E-mu 0404 and you will get a semipro recording SW included.
It is the soundcard quality and the input devices as mixers and Pre-amps that will set the technical quality level of your recordings, not the SW.

This might seem like a stupid question, but what does a pre-amp do?

I thought they were just signal boosters you put in between you amp and guitar...

Here's your answer Clazon - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Preamplifier

Don't worry its to the point and not long.

Thanks but it doesn't seem to add much onto what I already thought they did.

Specifically what roll do they perform in the recording studio situation?

They take any low level input and turn it into a line level input. Commonly used for mic's because of there low levels.

So, you're right but, it's not just for guitars.

Ah thanks. :)

:?: ...
Okayyyy...
Here we go again.
I asked this same question about 2 years ago. But this time... Instead of requesting a link to a free guitar recording software, I have money and am looking for the best possible yet relatively inexpensive Guitar Recording Software for Desktop PC's.

Wait though! Before you Reply or flame me.
I'd like to lay down some specifics that are required of any suggestions. Easy but improtant.
Ok..

1. Unlike most software that you can buy at... let's say.. Circuit City, I'm looking for software that ACTUALLY RECORDS you playing (Hopefuly you guys can find one that enables me to connect my guitar to a computer..)

2. And of course.. I want to be able to lay tracks, tweak the guitars effects and sounds, noice cancellation.. Guitar FX... Overdubbing.. etc.

3. Well.. Basically.. The same as number 2.. But rephrased. I want to be able to make a song.. Sure.. Built in drum-machines or whatever.. but I really am just looking for something to record multiple guitar tracks...perhaps create a song.. then burn to a cd.

4. And finally.. My price range is around ...$300. Good luck if you can find something. I'm not cheap.. Just 19 years old with a poop job.

Thanks,

Marshall

For $300 go get a Line6 Toneport UX1 ($150.00 US@ http://www.music123.com ) Then buy Cubase SE($99.00US) Now you even have enough money for a decent cable. The UX1 has some amazing amp models. So, you can record in the middle of the morning and the neighbors won't yell or call the cops. Cubase SE is as close to a Pro software without spending Pro money. You are limited to 32 audio tracks and I think 8 sends. Boo Hoo! That should get you through your first few demos at some pretty decent quality. Want a sound bite? I'll send one if you ask.

You could look at Cubase SE, which is around $300 stand-alone but it won't add much to what you're after plus you'll still need a USB-interface or soundcard.
.

Cubase SL is the $300.00+ program SE is only $99.00. SL should come down however as Cubase Studio 4 is now available.

Thanks for the correction Hue. Why don't they just call them Cubase Nice, Cubase Better and Cubase Best?

Because all that psuedo technical jargon makes us spend more money? More likely, it confuses us into spending more money. Those heartless buggers! :p