Recording multiple tracks via USB mixer in Garageband

I purchased the MXP124FX from B&H here in New York as part of a podcast recording kit. I wanted an audio interface that would allow me to record two hosts and two guests on separate tracks, using Garageband on my MacBook. I also purchased four XLR mics as part of the kit.


I’ve recorded one episode of the Podcast with one guest and myself, i.e. two tracks. Tomorrow I’m recording another episode and need to use three mics. I assumed that once I plugged my third and fourth mics into the mixer XLR jacks, my mac would show the additional inputs assignable to third and fourth channels. That didn’t happen, however.


And now I’m wondering whether B&H steered me wrong. Can I record from these four mics to four separate tracks in Garageband? Or, failing that, can I record the four mics to two or just one track?


I’ve alreadly learned that, for voice recording, I probably didn’t need four tracks. But I do need three and four people to sound good. Anyway, I thought I would come to the source in search of an answer. Any suggestions?

MacBook Air, iOS 10.1

Posted on Jul 24, 2017 7:45 PM

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3 replies

Jul 25, 2017 5:54 AM in response to Robert718

Robert718 wrote:


And now I’m wondering whether B&H steered me wrong.


from the headline description of the console, i'm afraid they did: MixPad® MXP124FX - Compact, 12-Input Analog Stereo Mixer with Effects and USB


the keyword there is "stereo," while it can handle multiple inputs, it's only 2 channel-OUT.


Robert718 wrote:


can I record the four mics to two or just one track?


yes, you can record to 2 separate tracks:


pan two of the input channels on the console left, and two to the right. in GB assign two of the tracks to mono and channel 1, and the other two tracks to mono and channel 2.


the button to change from stereo to mono:


User uploaded file

Jul 25, 2017 7:17 AM in response to Robert718

Arghh. Thanks. That's very helpful. In any case, I've found separate tracks to be less useful than imagined. Because voices bleed into the other mics and every track must then be edited and carefully collated. Maybe I'll just assign all to the same track?


Anyway, I'm away from my mixer today. I'll try this tomorrow and let you know if it solved the situation. In the meantime -- thank you!


R

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Recording multiple tracks via USB mixer in Garageband

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