Help with computer recording(bad quality, EQ?)

[animosus]

This is my first post, so i'd like to first say thank you all in advance for any attempts whatsoever to help. My name's Chris, and I've just recently started home recording.

I have a Behringer Euroback Mixer(the really cheap 4 channel one without phantom power), a Creative SoundBlaster Live! External Sound card, and an MXL desktop recording mic with a 9 volt battery power source. The external sound card is powered via USB. I am using Nuendo to record, but also have SoundForge if someone suggests I use that.

So anyways, the setup is as follows. I have the mixer connected to the Soundcard via RCA plugs into the Line In. I record everything basically on the first channel so I can use the EQ. First question- what should I EQ the vox vs. the guitar at? Right now I have it at flat EQ for both low and high . I plug the guitar in to channel 1, lay that track, and then use the mic for the vocals, but the mic gives me a lot of buzz. When I turn the Hi EQ all the way down, it does eliminate some of the buzz, but there is still some there. What should I EQ the mic at to give me an ideal vocal sound? It sounds very muddy almost. The guitar does as well at times. What should i EQ that to? Should I use a new program? Any help would be appreciated; I'm a newbie to this stuff, but am looking forward to as much learning as possible.

 

[superspit]

hi...welcome.....just quickly (I'm at work), it's often best to record all your 'stuff' neutral /flat....the EQ can be played with within your software later.
Also, please consider (actually, you must!!) replacing your mic with anything other than what you have at the moment....go for a SM58, or any other dynamic, to start with. It doesn't have to be a super expensive one, but SM57/58's are a good 'common ground' mic that other people on these forums can relate to and help you with).
Although the pre-amps and eq section on your berry are not the best in the world, they will suffiice for now, just try to do your eq'ing via the software..(just from my experience!!)
This will be a massive step up in controling your sound. The rest of your gear sounds like what I started digital recording on!! (it's all fine).
You'll be fine....keep posting and the other, more knowledgeable people here will help you through!! (hey!...did I just criticize myself?)...anyways..
Regards,
Superspit.