Need help starting out...thanks

[killuminati]

Hey, wanting to start recording some vocals at home...was originally going to purchase a USB microphone so I could record through my computer but heard it's a better idea to purchase a Audio Interface and just a standard microphone?? Looking to spend upto $300, will push the budget to 400-500$ if it's really worth it, any suggestions? Thanks heaps!!

 

[brother rat]

It really depends on what you have in mind to do. The big caveat with a USB mic is that you are pretty much stuck with that one mic. The reason a standard mic and interface would be "better" is because you can later use a different mic, multiple mics, record instruments, etc. If you know that you will only be recording vocals and only one track at a time (podcasting, etc.) the USB mic might be the way to go. If you think you might want to do more in the future, or if you are talking about more serious voice over work, then the mic and interface would probably be more of the right path. The good news is that a budget of $300 - 500 will get you a decent start in either direction.

 

[xbxrxixtx]

Like the above post said a lot depends on what you intend to do. For podcasts, and strictly vocal projects you can go with a USB mic. Personally I've never used one so I can't speak for quality or anything like that. If you are a rapper, or guitar player/singer or something along those lines I'd recommend the interface and mic combo. Having an XLR input gives you a lot more options as far as microhpones. Also you could get an interface with a lot of capabilities that can give you a lot more options if you want to do more than just vocals. I use an MBOX 2 Mini. It has an XLR input, and also 2 x 1/4" inputs. Not only can I record a mic, but I could also record a mic and guitar at the same time, or a stereo input like a turntable. Other interfaces have MIDI capabilities and more inputs. So its really up to what you want, and what you see for yourself in the future.

 

[Dags]

Hi there. If you're looking at recording good quality vocals for songs or even voiceovers, you might need to set your aim a little higher than a USB mic.
I have only had some experience with using a USB interface (MBox) and listening to/mixing other peoples' work recorded through various USB-powered interfaces, and there is audible noise added to the signal when the device is powered by USB.
I can imagine that the USB powered mic would be no different.
Brother Rat also makes a good point in that a standard XLR mic can be used anywhere connected to any device with a standard mic preamp and will therefore give you more flexibility further down the track when you have updated your studio gear.
Just my opinion, but the Rode NT1a I have found to be the most versatile condensor mic in my modest arsenal, and it didn't cost me a week's wages!

Dags

 

[xbxrxixtx]

Just my opinion, but the Rode NT1a I have found to be the most versatile condensor mic in my modest arsenal, and it didn't cost me a week's wages!

Dags

The Rode NT1a is a great mic. I've used it in many many sessions and for the price you can't beat it. The last I saw it was selling for around $235 or so and came with a shockmount, dvd, and cable.

 

[killuminati]

Cheers for all the reply's the Rode NT1a looks like the way to go for the mic. What would you guy's recommend for the interface?? And is that all I need to record lyrics through my computer? Also what program do you guy's use/recommend for recording lyrics over beats? Thanks again

 

[brother rat]

the Rode NT1a looks like the way to go for the mic.

Note: the Rode NT1A is one of several ways to go, given your budget. I've never used it, but have heard good reviews. There are several other mics in the same price range that get equally good reviews. Also, don't count out a solid dynamic mic for this purpose. You might look into an Electro Voice RE320, a Shure SM7b, or even a Shure Beta 58a. I'm not meaning to distract you or confuse you, these are just suggestions as there are many mics worth considering.

 

[LC155]

Hi there. If you're looking at recording good quality vocals for songs or even voiceovers, you might need to set your aim a little higher than a USB mic.
I have only had some experience with using a USB interface (MBox) and listening to/mixing other peoples' work recorded through various USB-powered interfaces, and there is audible noise added to the signal when the device is powered by USB.
I can imagine that the USB powered mic would be no different.
Brother Rat also makes a good point in that a standard XLR mic can be used anywhere connected to any device with a standard mic preamp and will therefore give you more flexibility further down the track when you have updated your studio gear.
Just my opinion, but the Rode NT1a I have found to be the most versatile condensor mic in my modest arsenal, and it didn't cost me a week's wages!

Dags

You sure about that for higher quality USB interfaces, such as the USBPre 2? I'm guessing in the cheaper interfaces with lower quality components, there will be a higher noise level floor which could be picked up if you're really looking for it. However, I believe in the higher quality stuff the noise floor would be so low that you'd need to seriously amplify the sound to hear it. Of course, I have no real world experience, but I'd imagine that would be how it works.

 

[xbxrxixtx]

Cheers for all the reply's the Rode NT1a looks like the way to go for the mic. What would you guy's recommend for the interface?? And is that all I need to record lyrics through my computer? Also what program do you guy's use/recommend for recording lyrics over beats? Thanks again

It's all personal preference really. Pretty much any interface and software will record vocals and let you put it on a beat. I have an MBOX 2 Mini that would do the trick for you. It has an XLR in and two 1/4" ins. This means you can record your mic, but you can also use it to record in a stereo source like a turntable or something if you neededwanted to. The MBOX line comes with ProTools which is pretty much industry standard software. That being said you can find plenty of others for a lot cheaper that will do what you want to do. I think you can even find some now at best buy. You really don't need anything too big or expensive or anything. Putting lyrics on a beat is really pretty simple when it comes to recording. It may get a little more complicated for you if you eventually want to get into more on the production side.

All you really need if all you intend to record is vocals would be an interface with an XLR input (assuming you choose that route). A lot of interfaces also come with software that will do all of your basic editing functions. You can also download audacity for free as software. I've never used it but there seem to be quite a few that do and free is always nice.