How do I "install" my mic?

[MattStorey]

I'm rather new to the whole process of computer recording. I bought Cubasis 4.0 for the PC. I'm soon going to be buying a mic. I have an SB Audigy Audio [FF80] soundcard.

My question is, where do I insert the mic into the computer? And once that is done, do I need any software to recognise it on my computer for it to be selected on Cubasis?

I'm sorry if these are remedial questions, but like I said, I'm new to this. Any help would be appreciated.

Also, one final question. Is there a way to plug my electric guitar into the computer directly? Is this the same way as the microphone lead?

Thanks again
Matt

 

[Richard Monroe]

You plug the mic into a microphone preamp or mixer, and the line out of the mic preamp or mixer into the line in on the soundcard. Generally, the mic input on a soundcard is for a specialized computer mic that is not appropriate for critical recording. You need a mic preamp.-Richie

 

[crazydoc]

For starters, you'll need a preamp. Plug your mic into this, then plug it into the line input of your sound card. Get the Audiobuddy for $80. It is relatively quiet, and has 2 channels. You can also plug your guitar into it to use as a direct injection box.

As for mics, start out with a Studio Projects B1 , or an Oktava MK319 from Guitar Center if you can get it for $50.

Then if you have a mic stand and cable, this is ALL you need to start recording, for an investment of $130 - $160.

There will be a guy named DJL who will post here and will tell you this is full of shit, that you need to go audition a bunch of equipment. Don't pay any attention to him. Just buy this stuff and start recording. You're going to have to get a new soundcard anyway as your next upgrade, but with this you can start and you'll think it sounds pretty good.

 

[Han]

There will be a guy named DJL who will post here and will tell you this is full of shit, that you need to go audition a bunch of equipment. Don't pay any attention to him. Just buy this stuff and start recording. You're going to have to get a new soundcard anyway as your next upgrade, but with this you can start and you'll think it sounds pretty good.

 

[DJL]

For starters, you'll need a preamp. Plug your mic into this, then plug it into the line input of your sound card. Get the Audiobuddy for $80. It is relatively quiet, and has 2 channels. You can also plug your guitar into it to use as a direct injection box.

As for mics, start out with a Studio Projects B1 , or an Oktava MK319 from Guitar Center if you can get it for $50.

Then if you have a mic stand and cable, this is ALL you need to start recording, for an investment of $130 - $160.

There will be a guy named DJL who will post here and will tell you this is full of shit, that you need to go audition a bunch of equipment. Don't pay any attention to him. Just buy this stuff and start recording. You're going to have to get a new soundcard anyway as your next upgrade, but with this you can start and you'll think it sounds pretty good.

No, I think your advice is ok... I'd replace the SB soundcard and make a few other changes to your recommendations... but, your advice is good enough to get someone started.

Matt, also checkout the big thread and FAQ stickys at the top of our mic forum.

 

[Neil Ogilvie]

No, I think your advice is ok... I'd replace the SB soundcard and make a few other changes to your recommendations... but, your advice is good enough to get someone started.

Matt, also checkout the big thread and FAQ stickys at the top of our mic forum.

Nice comeback DJL.

 

[crazydoc]

Nice comeback DJL.

Yes, my compliments on your deportment here today. Did you finally get started on your Prozac?

 

[DJL]

Yes, my compliments on your deportment here today. Did you finally get started on your Prozac?

This and most of your post to me or about me are the type of post that take up my time and keep me from answering mic related questions.

 

[crazydoc]

This and most of your post to me or about me are the type of post that take up my time and keep me from answering mic related questions.

Well, we all have to prioritize.

 

[Neil Ogilvie]

This and most of your post to me or about me are the type of post that take up my time and keep me from answering mic related questions.

I dont hate you DJL, not by any means. Your personality just intrigues me....

 

[DJL]

And what does this have to do with Matt's question?

 

[Neil Ogilvie]

And what does this have to do with Matt's question?

Your right, for which I apologise. But you know, I hate to leave things with a bad air about them. Guess I'm too polite for my own good sometimes........

 

[DJL]

Your right, for which I apologise. But you know, I hate to leave things with a bad air about them. Guess I'm too polite for my own good sometimes........

Do you have anything that you'd like to add to this thread that you think might help Matt get started with his recording?

 

[Neil Ogilvie]

Do you have anything that you'd like to add to this thread that you think might help Matt get started with his recording?

If your looking at DI'ing your guitar directly into your computer I would strongly recomend something along the lines of a POD or J-Station. I have a POD and am very happy with the results I get from it.

As for soundcards, I would recomend something in the Delta range. These mics give ery low latency and tend to be very stable. I have used cheaper soundcards before and its false economy to invest in cheaper products at that part of the recording chain.

However, for your current recording you will do well by investing in a pre and mic, as mentioned in the above replies.

 

[DJL]

Your an ok guy Neil. Thanks for putting the thread back on track.

 

[stonepiano]

also, don't forget about the V-amp for guitar direct recording. a more affordable alternative to the pod for sure.

 

[TexRoadkill]

Also forget about Pods or V-amps and mic a cheap tube amp instead. Your guitar will thank you.

 

[MattStorey]

Cheers for all your help lads, you've been great.

Now, one thing I did forget to mention was that I have a Spirit Folio Notepad mixer. Would this do instead of a preamp? I'm also very confused on how to connect this up. Is there a website on how to connect it up, or does anyone here use it?

Cheers
Matt

 

[crazydoc]

If this is your mixer, then it has its own preamps with phantom power. For starters, just plug the mic into a mic input, and the line out of the mixer into the line in of your soundcard. You may need to get cables with the appropriate connectors on each end to do this.

Also, here is a link to the Soundcraft website. They have downloadable manuals for many of their products - yours may be among them.
http://www.soundcraft.com/product_list.asp

 

[MattStorey]

Yep, that's my mixer. Right, so all I need is the mic then I'm sorted? Superb!

Also, just to verify, (and don't you bastards laugh lol) the line-in of the soundcard can just be found at the back of the computer?

Well, this is great. Cheers for all the help!

Matt