Connect an audio interface to your computer. Typically this calls for either a USB or Firewire cable, depending on which type of audio interface you are using. An audio interface converts audio signals into data signals so that your computer can process them. The USB or Firewire "Output" port on an audio interface is typically located on the rear. The USB or Firewire port is normally located on the side of laptop computers and on the front of desktop systems.
Fit a MIDI cable to the "MIDI Out" socket on your MIDI controller or MIDI enabled keyboard. Connect the other end to the "MIDI In" socket on the audio interface. MIDI is a protocol that lets you remotely trigger pre-stored sound samples. It gives you access to a range of sounds that would otherwise be difficult to recreate in the home-studio, such as orchestral strings or brass sections.
Connect a sound source. Fit an an XLR cable to the "Microphone Input" socket on the audio interface and connect the other end of the XLR cable to a microphone. If you want to record a live instrument, such as an electric guitar or bass, use a 1/4-inch jack lead and connect it to the "Audio In" socket on the front of the interface. Connect a pair of headphones to the "Headphones" jack on the rear of the interface.
Double-click on the Mixcraft desktop icon to open the program.
Click "File" and select "New Session." Click "File" again and select "New Audio Track." The new track will open in the Mixcraft channel strip. Click where it says "Track 1" to rename the track. For brevity and clarity, use terms such as "Vox 1" or "Elec. Guit.2."
Audition the levels. Play the instrument or sing into the microphone. If the red LED warning light on the Mixcraft "Gain Meter" starts to flash, turn down the "Gain" dial on the audio interface.
Click on the "Metronome" icon to enable the click track. This tool functions as a timing reference. If you go out of time when using a click track, it will be very obvious. The default tempo for all tracks is 120 beats per minute. Press "Play" and do an audition take with the click. If you want to change the default click tempo, type your preferred tempo into the box at the bottom center of the recording interface.
Press "Record" when ready and perform an audio take.
Click "File" and select "New MIDI Track." Click "Instruments" and select a sound, for example "Church Bells" or "Funky Horns." Use the MIDI controller keyboard to trigger the sounds. Press "Record" when ready.