low signal - do i need a preamp?

[martidoh]

low signal, do i need a preamp - here is the message

slightly amateur question, i'm sorry

i posted a while back complaining about a low signal from my AKG c1000s. I'm using a little Rolls 48v phantom power, going into a soundblaster card. The signal is very weak. I tested all the cables and adaptors and they are fine with other devices (like an MD) going into the line in.

Could this be a TRS issue - the cable/adapter? Do I need a special adapter for a balanced mic cable?

Or, more importantly, do I absolutely need a preamp in the form of a mixer (cheapest option) to boost the signal?

Right now I'm running through and turning up the trim on my old tape four-track to boost the signal, but this introduces lots of background noise.

What is the best way to bring up the signal, and is this normal behaviour for a mic like this in a setup like this?

thanks

 

[Hard2Hear]

Yes... you definately need a pre amp. Go out from it to the line in on your soundcard. That will fix your problems.

H2H

 

[martidoh]

thanks!