Connecting AT2020 to Xonar Essence STX soundcard

[Eclipse87]

Hello,

I currently own a Xonar Essence STX sound card, which i use in combination with a high-end high-impedance headphone (hd650). Im looking to do some instrumental recording, and im thinking of purchasing a AT2020 XLR to connect to this soundcard.

Now im wondering what sort of equipment i will need for this. I understand the microphone needs phantom power, but will phantom power alone do the trick in my case?

Something like the ART Phantom one (cant post links yet, if you google art phantom, its the top link) where i will obviously connect the microphone to the phantom power supply, and the power supply straight from XLR to the 6,3mm input on my soundcard.

Or will i need some sort of amplification to go with the 48v ? I know the Essence STX has a built in pre amp for the headphone and microphone jack. But im not sure if that would be sufficient.

Thanks!

 

[PRHunt]

The Xonar Essence STX is a superb card for audio playback. I have a couple of Essence ST cards, and they perform extremely well.

You will have problems, however, getting the AT2020 to work with the Xonar.

The first problem, you have identified. You need phantom power for this mic. That can be worked around.

The second, potentially show-stopping problem, is that the mic will output a balanced signal. The Xonar accepts a stereo unbalanced signal.

The third problem could be getting sufficient gain for the mic.

The Essence ST/STX card is optimized for playback, but not for more demanding recording.

Your best solution will be to get an audio interface - there is plenty of info about these here at HR. You will be able to solve the issues I outlined above, in a single piece of gear which needn't be too expensive.

Paul