Recording Live Drums

I am in need of recording a drumset but I only have an interface with 2 inputs, is there a way around buying a new interface with at least 8 inputs?  Is there such a device that is just inputs and I can some way still use my Motu Ultralike 3 to do the recordings?  I could use my mixer to do it but that still only gives me two channels at the most

Yeah, but he still can only record 2 tracks at a time with that soundcard. 

You could get an audio interface with 8 inputs, but then you'll need 8 microphones or pickups to record each drum individually. Is it really necessary for you to record each drum and cymbal on a separate track? 

Just curious if this is a one-time set-up, or if you are setting up a semi-permanent drum room in your studio.  Doesn't change your question, except that you would probably be willing to invest more if this were a permanent set-up.  I would think the mic cost would dwarf the interface/sound card cost.

@daveny... It looks like it has a total of 8 analog ins (two multi ins and six line ins). http://www.motu.com/produ...ultralite-mk3/i-o.html BMOG, if that is indeed the correct interface you can do as CJay says and get a mic pre with line outs or use a mixer with 8 mic pres and dedicated line outs. You should be able to rent one of those items if this is only a one of recording.

Here is my situation I was approached this morning by a Bass Player who wants me to record and engineer his project and he stated that some songs he will want live drums.  This will be more of a permanent setup for me.  I like the idea of using a pre-amps and using the lines out to go into my Motu.  I need suggestions on some pre-amps to research please?

BTW... recording drums is a PITA. You should try to spend as much time trying things out and reading up on the process before bringing in any clients or whatever. If you have any buddies who play drums bribe them with beer to come over and hammer away on the kit while you wrap your head around how things work. It's a lot harder to fiddle with that kind of thing by yourself... especially if you aren't a drummer.

Don't let anybody discourage you from recording real drums, These guy's round here are in love with those canned drums but me, if I can (sucker) talk a real drummer into playing on my songs I'll go for it.
 It will always sound better,, ( then you go back and replace the drums with samples using audio snap ha ha)
It is a bit of a learning curve but if you bone up on a few good techniques it can be amazingly easy. Keep it simple,
 I'd start with Kick, Snare and 2 matching overheads and see what happens. 
Basicly if the drums sound good in the room, and you place those overheads correctly, all will be good. You really do need the Kick and Snare separate, next would be Hats.  
Adding more mikes just adds more leakage and phase issues.  Yes it is a good idea to have each drum separate, but you will need better equipment and take more time to get it right.
So you could get by with a 4 channel audio interface. 
If you do want the big channel count then grab a Tascam us1800 for $300. They are perfect for recording drums.  Nothing else is even close at that price once you get more than 4 channels.
 
You cannot use 2 interfaces at the same time with ASIO drivers.

Cactus Music


if I can (sucker) talk a real drummer into playing on my songs I go for it. It will always sound better,, ( then you go back and replace them..... ha ha) 

Exactly what I did on two CHB songs. I happen to use drumagog.

HE'S MINE!!! GET OUTTA HERE!!! *swings wildly*

I'm with Cactus on this one. I love recording live drums. I would go with Kick, Snare, 2-OH's then I would mic up the toms next. Play with placement but be sure to Watch the phase on the OH's and all should be well.

Rocky

Our town is so hurtin' for drummers that they actually let me play in a band once!
Our drummer moved away last winter. So we are on the bum again, We steal this amazing guy Mike but he is also in 2 other bands.
The way he does it, is the first band to call him and book a payed gig gets his 100% commitment.
He will come do recording with me if I supply the drums, and beer. He loves to play and he is very supportive of my originals.
I don't need to edit his playing ever. But I will replace the kick sometimes.