So, I'm assembling an all new pc/interface/host. Advice?

[herodotus]

Hello kvr.

So, I've been recording since 2004. I started with an Edirol UA25, an average PC, and Tracktion. That setup is still alive, but only just.

I'm using this setup because of various disasters that destroyed a newer setup. I've made this older system work, but circumstances finally allow me to build something better.

Anyway, I'm out of the loop on these things, and would like shopping advice from more knowledgeable kvr members.

My needs are limited, but specific.

I would like to be able to record at least 8 independent microphone inputs simultaneously, at least 4 of which need to have phantom power.

I want an interface with drivers that are rock solid with whatever specific operating system.

And because I'm a freeware junkie, I'd like a host/operating system that allows me to indulge my freeware addiction.

Finally, I like the modular functionality that came standard with Tracktion in versions 2 through 4.

Anyway, does anyone have any ideas?

Thanks.

[foosnark]

I would like to be able to record at least 8 independent microphone inputs simultaneously, at least 4 of which need to have phantom power.

I want an interface with drivers that are rock solid with whatever specific operating system.

I'm very happy with the Behringer UMC1820. It has 8 mic pres with phantom power, though I use them with both modular and line-level synths so I can't specifically vouch for it with mics. The drivers have given me absolutely no hassle at all with Windows 10. The only downside is it runs a little warm and wants a bit of space for ventilation if you rack it.

I'm running a custom PC built by CyberPowerPC -- an AMD Ryzen 5 3600 with 16GB of RAM and a 1TB NVMe SSD.

I've never used Tracktion, but Bitwig has a very modular mindset (and the literally modular Grid devices).

[yellowmix]

Tracktion is now called Waveform, they are on version 10. They also give away Tracktion 7 for free, so you may be satisfied with that. Bandlab Cakewalk is another very competent free DAW, it's based on the Sonar codebase. And there is a much-improved Ardour if your idea of freeware leans toward free as in speech.

[Passing Bye]

Agree with foosnark on all points, Behringer, Ryzen, Bitwig.

[herodotus]

Thanks, everyone. I have a place to start. I've noticed that there are options like Mux and Metaplugin that allows modular functionality in hosts that don't allow it natively.

Clearly I have some research in front of me.

Thanks again.