Plug playback monitors into the speaker output jack located on the back of the computer. The use of standard computer audio speakers is not recommended for advanced recording but function adequately for beginning engineers. You can upgrade the quality of audio playback by changing the computer sound card to one that accepts TRS cable connectors. With a TRS enabled sound card installed you can utilize balanced recording playback monitors.
Connect an audio interface into the computer’s USB port. Basic, cost effective interfaces, such as the Behringer FCA202 and Echo Audiofire 4, allow basic connections for guitar input, electronic drum input and a microphone input. If you plan to run several microphones, such as when you record acoustic drums, use an audio interface such as the Tascam FW1082 or the MOTU 828mk3.
Install emulation software, like Guitar Rig or ToadWorks, to mimic the sound of guitar amplifiers since most audio interfaces do not offer emulation. If you do not want to use software to emulate, you can use a guitar processor like Tonelab, POD or Digitech. This is not required if you plan to use a microphone to record the guitar directly from the amplifier.
Open the Cakewalk program by going to Start then Programs then Cakewalk on your computer. This turns your studio on. Power on the playback monitors and turn on the audio interface. If you have emulation software installed, turn it on by going to Start then Programs and then select the name of the emulator you are using. The studio is now operational.