Inexperienced PocketStudio User Wants Advice on Audio Volume

[theturtlebear]

I've had the PocketStudio for a year. I don't use its full capabilities (although I understand the concepts ok) - I just use to record vocal performances (solo and choirs) from the front of an audience. I use a condenser mic powered by phantom power. It's a fairly inexpensive mic ($100 on sale at Guitar Ctr). I record to the Pocket files and then mix down to MP3, rather than recording straight to MP3, because I like to have the songs in tracks instead of one long recording. Meanwhile, I am not satisfied with the audio volume level. I max the input volume on the mic line during recording, and then I use the max optimum level on the track and overall settings during mixdown. My MP3 files I create are just not loud enough - for instance, when I burn CDs or play on my computer, I have to turn the sound on max and still am not getting the audio I'd like. My question: Is this a product of my mic? If I get a better (more expensive) mic will it help? Or would a specific type of condenser mic be best for recording when the mic isn't at a singer's mouth (but at front of audience)? I've also seen comments about cables making a difference? I understand the PocketStudio documentation, and don't think it has anything to do with the Tascam product - unless using a small, portable, fairly inexpensive recording product like this is the problem? I'd love to get feedback - in laymen's terms - from anyone who can help me out. Thanks!