Garageband doesn't recognize microphone that is connected through Mbox mini

[mattbennett]

I am trying to set up my recording equipment and I have encountered difficulty getting garageband to recognize that I have a mic plugged into my interface. My mbox mini is hooked up to my computer, garageband allows me to use it for my audio output (monitors I have hooked up to the mbox), but i have not been able to pick up any sound with my external mic (an AT2035 cardioid capacitor mic).

I have selected the mbox as the audio input for garageband. When I go to the real instrument track info, the three options I have for input source are mono 1, mono 2, and stereo 1/2. None of those three options have resulted in sound being picked up by garageband. None of those options allow me to control the recording level bar which remains dimmed. I am very new to recording and don't know where to begin in solving this problem. I would be so thankful for any help.

Matt

 

[propman]

Hmm... That's a strange problem. I've never used GarageBand so I can't fully help with any software issues...
I looked up the AT2035 and it's listed as a 'cardioid condenser" not "...capacitor.' I have no clue if that holds any real significance, as I've never heard the term 'cardioid capacitor microphone.' That said, I do know that condenser mics need to be fed phantom power. I have no clue if it's the same for 'capacitor' mics (I suspect it might be) but either way, have you switched the phantom power on?
I know that's a bit like the Japanese manuals telling you to plug in your device and I'm sorry if it seems like over-simplified advice.

Onto thought two: Reaper (the DAW I use) has independent drop-down boxes to indicate input and output preferences. Does garage band have the same? In that case, maybe you overlooked assigning the Mbox as the default input device.

That's all I've got... I'm sorry if it isn't much help.

 

[mattbennett]

I do not know how to turn phantom power on or what phantom power is or how it works. Is there some other item I would need to get?

Thanks again,

Matt

 

[Seidy]

I do not know how to turn phantom power on or what phantom power is or how it works.

Plug in your mic and hit +48V button on the back of the Mbox mini. (Also make sure you use XLR to XLR cable, phantom power won't work when using XLR to jack or similar cable)