Advice Needed on Buying a Simple Mic...I Know, I Know

[showme]

I know, I know...these types of questions seem like an endless stream around here. I've been reading through this forum and the microphone FAQ and it seems like I have a lot of reading and trying out tons of microphones before I find an answer. So now I've decided to just ask and hopefully save myself some time.

So here is my situation:

Mainly, my need for a mic is to record my voice and hear it back so that I can see what I need to improve. I might find myself doing a few recordings but mainly I want a mic for self-improvement.

Right now I own a GLS Audio ES-58, a microphone which is supposed to be really good for $30. Reviews raved about it being way better than the legendary SM58 for instruments and vocals. I'm not so impressed with it. It sounds muddy and un-sensitive when playing it back. I can't hear all the vocal nuances and tricks that I often do. Many people across the web suggest a condenser for vocals.

Is this true? If so, what condensers should I be considering?

I have no professional studio. I have a simple room and I just need a microphone that is clear enough for the above stated purpose. I thought USB condensers would be a good choice since they seem simple plug and play but then people don't recommend them because they are mainly for podcasting.

Is this true?

My range is very similar to John Legend. Search a video of him on youtube if you want an idea of my voice.

I was considering just going out and buying an Audio Technica AT2020USB and testing it out but then people on this forum mentioned that some stores don't take back mics because of health regulations.

So where does that leave me? I just need a simple solution that is very clear without buying expensive pre-amps, compressors, and all that other technical jargon that floats around. My budget was originally $100 but I can extend it to $200 or more if it is necessary for a solid purchase.

Thanks so much!


P.S. It may be that I have my ES-58 plugged into a crappy motherboard which I hear is awful for recording anything.

 

[12pak]

Years ago I bought an SPC1 (Studio Projects C1) for about $175. I bought it because some touted it to sound somewhat like a Neuman U87 (a very pricy mic). Well I don't know if that comparison is accurate or relavant but I've really enjoyed this mic and would choose it over the sound of my AT4047. It seems to have more clarity and detail. I've done tracks with both mics at about the same proximity and the C1 sounds better to my ears. Back when the AT 4047 was new I think I paid close to $600 for it. The SPc1 for less than $200 is a great large condenser. There are a bunch of them in the same class I'm sure will be mentioned here but the only real comparison I can give is between the C1 and the AT4047.

 

[dastrick]

Using your computer's soundcard is not the best choice.

The ES-58 should give you pretty good results if used with an audio interface, however a condensor is probably what you're looking for. For your needs a USB condensor should be fine.

 

[showme]

Thanks a ton! I think I am going to try out the AT2020USB and the MXL .009.

 

[TheChikenMaster]

yeah go for it! Who says a usb mic is just for pod freakin casting?!? Its all a damn marketing ploy. But hey it works. We gotta use all the resources we can get down to the eggcartons.

 

[12milluz]

The At2020USB is an excellent microphone. Definitely give it a shot.

 

[showme]

Ok, I decided to go with the AT2020 usb after much research and deliberation and...it is absolutely fantastic so far for recording singing.

I would definitely recommend it for the first time recording users out there.

Thanks for all those who responded to this thread.

I paid $110 for it off of Amazon with 2-day shipping included ($12). The original price was $95.

There is absolutely no static or fuzz in the backgroud. Its picks anything up from a 20 foot radius I'd guess.

I'd be willing to ost sample of the mic if anybody wanted. I will warn though that the videos on youtube do this mic no justice. Out.