back to the very basics please

[shelbyann]

does anyone know the best mic that will plug directly into my computer? I'm not looking for anything too expensive. Just something with decent sound for vocals.

 

[hairylarry]

usb or preamp?

Hi,

MXL makes some USB mics that are targeted at you but it's not what I would recommend.

I'd recommend a preamp like an M-Audio DMP3 to go into the line in on your sound card. Then you can use any professional mic you want whether it is under 50 or over 5000.

You should try different vocal mics when you can and see which ones you like. In the under $100 range I like the AKG D770, EV PL80, and the Shure SM57. Many like the Shure SM58 which is similar to the SM57 but set up for vocals use.

Many female vocalists like the EV 357b microphone.

If you can get a preamp like the DMP3 you can also use condensor mics that require phantom power.

You will spend more on a preamp and a quality mic then you will on a USB mic. But you will end up with much better sound and equipment you can keep and use in the future. The USB mic will only be good for what it does and you will outgrow it.

Thanks,

Hairy Larry

 

[hoops]

I secound the USB mic recommendation. Easy and quick.

 

[whjr15]

IMO, I wouldn't go this route unless you plan on upgrading your computers (factory?) soundcard. However, if you're serious about recording and have a few bucks to spare, you could get a quality USB (or FireWire) interface. Then you wouldn't have to worry about your computers soundcard. But like I said, it just depends on how serious you are about getting decent recordings.

Hi,

MXL makes some USB mics that are targeted at you but it's not what I would recommend.

I'd recommend a preamp like an M-Audio DMP3 to go into the line in on your sound card. Then you can use any professional mic you want whether it is under 50 or over 5000.

You should try different vocal mics when you can and see which ones you like. In the under $100 range I like the AKG D770, EV PL80, and the Shure SM57. Many like the Shure SM58 which is similar to the SM57 but set up for vocals use.

Many female vocalists like the EV 357b microphone.

If you can get a preamp like the DMP3 you can also use condensor mics that require phantom power.

You will spend more on a preamp and a quality mic then you will on a USB mic. But you will end up with much better sound and equipment you can keep and use in the future. The USB mic will only be good for what it does and you will outgrow it.

Thanks,

Hairy Larry