So do I need ADDITONAL software to record?
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I bought this because I was under the impression it came with everything I need to record. The amp and the spark amp. I am BRAND new at this and I just watched another video that said I need to open a "DAW" (WTF is that?) to record. Can someone please give me a step by step on how to friggin record? I just watched a "how to record" video and it literally didn't show anything in regards to how to record.
Do I need to download the spark app and another app? I am trying to do this from my phone, not a pc. I do have an ipad but am currently using my phone. I though I was able to open the app and record.....guess not.
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@michael-m7002
Did you buy a Spark Mini or Spark 40? I own a Spark 40, and I recorded once using Presonus and my Spark to test it…My Spark 40 came with a Presonus Redemption Card; Presonus is a recording program that works on a computer. Download Presonus to your computer, connect the Spark to the computer via USB, and you should be able to record. If you’re really serious about recording, this will probably be totally inadequate.
Serious recording musicians purchase a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) package for their computer, which ‘simulates’ recording studio tools and capabilities. Based on various forum threads, some users have issues and associated disappointing results using the Spark Amp in conjunction with their standard DAW setup; so I’d suggest some research before pursuing this route.
Your iPad and iPhone should include a copy of GarageBand which will allow you to record directly on your iOS device. Here your problem is establishing an interface between your Guitar and the device. I’ve used an iRig; Positive Grid sells a competitive product called RIFF. You connect your guitar to iRig or RIFF, connect it to the iPhone/iPad, and use GarageBand to listen and record. Unfortunately, I don’t know of a way to do this directly with a Spark 40/Mini…
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You don't need anything additional, just a recording software and a usb cable that allows you to connect the amplifier to your computer. The amplifier side is obviously usb-c the other end will depend on your computer.
PositiveGrid indicates that the spark amp is suitable for recording, the reality is that as of today it has a lag that makes it useless, let's hope that the software/firmware improves.
List of software to record audio:
https://techjury.net/best/audio-recording-software/#gref#spark #mini #lag #useless #firmware
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@dan-lawrence It is the spark mini, I didn't see any redemption card, just a manual, strap and cord. I have an iRig but also found it difficult to record being a beginner. I bought the spark because the promotion of it made it sound like that, and a phone/ipad was all I would need.
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@antonio-carranza so if I plug the spark direct into an iMac, I can download spark and use garage band on that imac? I am trying to limit devices, as I thought this was a plug in press record on the app. I would rather use the iMac just becasue using windows with my iRig was a pain with ASIO and all, sound was terrible. But the mini sounds great through the amp an headphones so I want to record that exact sound.
And when you say I can use Garage band...I open spark and connect the mini, then open garage band and that is it? This is where I get stuck, I have no idea about this. What are the steps if I am connecting the amp to the back of my iMac and using spark app and garage band?
Thanks
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@michael-m7002
I believe that you can go directly to the Presonus website and download the free version directly. Last I checked, there were instructions relating to Presonus in the PG Help Center webpage.I have also found that the promotional materials for PG products were less than clear. I believe the Spark Mini interfaces much like my Spark 40. You use Bluetooth on your phone or tablet to interface with (and update) the Spark App, and the amplifier’s USB Out to interface with a PC or MacBook to update the Spark Amp firmware.
Based on other forum threads, some members use the USB Out to interface with the computer to record, while others use the Headphones as an ‘Line Out‘ source and essentially treat it as a mic on the computer.
I found the whole recording interface setup too complicated and confusing for my interest level; so for practice I use a Looper and a real pedal or two in the Guitar Chain, just as I would with a standard amplifier.
For me, my Spark 40 has been a great, inexpensive stand-alone practice amplifier, and the rest is fluff…
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@michael-m7002 If you have an iMac, you don't need any driver, just open GarageBand and get going. You might have to choose the Spark Mini as your audio interface in the settings/preferences.
Please note that if you have the Spark Audio Bluetooth connection active, you can't get the USB to fire up. It's one or the other, so disconnect that if you need to. You can still connect the Spark App on your iPhone/iPad to control the amp, just not send it Bluetooth audio.
