Got a random mic, dunno if it's useable!

[Talidan]

So, I've been wanting to get a decent mic to use with my computer for voice recording and possibly instrument recording. It's something I put off because I want a good mic for it, when I have the money.

Tonight, though, I found a microphone by Bose at an auction and I picked it up, in a box with about $15 worth of other older electronics (CD player, tape recorder, input switcher and something else) for $5. Just on the chance that it might suit me.

Only problem is the cable end for the mic to plug into something is RCA, which is not something I'm used to on something like this. I'm an absolute amateur, but I was under the impression that they're generally 3.5mm aux (right?), XLR, or sometimes USB.

So, is it useable with an adapter of some sort? If so, what adapter would be best?

Thanks in advance

 

[Bobbsy]

For what you paid it's probably worth a try just to see what it's like--I wouldn't count on anything special but you never know.

As for what adaptor to get, that depends on what you need to plug it into.

Discounting USB (which is a computer data connector only used by mics that have a built in A to D converter) there are two common options.

The cheap built in sound cards on computers tend to use a 1/8th inch jack. They also sound like crap--the mic inputs are designed more for Skype phone calls than any serious recording. Even if the mic happens to be a little gem, the built in sound card probably won't show this up.

Pretty well every decent mic out there uses an XLR on the output and is designed to be connected to an Audio Interface (or mixer) with XLR inputs. Trouble is, from you comments about being an absolute amateur, I suspect you'll have to buy such an interface. There are lots out there but you'll end up spending more on the interface than on the mic.

What can I tell you? Well, if you'll likely buy a microphone for recording use whether or not the Bose works out, then maybe buy an audio interface. You'll need it anyway. If this is just an "if it works I'll use it, otherwise forget it" episode, then give an RCA to 1/8th inch jack adaptor (there are lots around) a try.

 

[Talidan]

Eventually I will be getting an audio interface. That was always part of the plan, just a little far off. Since an RCA to 1/8th is pretty cheap, I'll probably do that just to see how it is. When I'm able to get everything else, I'll do the interface first and try the mic with it before getting another one.

Thanks for the help.