need some soundcard advice

[sean78]

I am looking to upgrade my recording equipment (which right now is just an internal sound and creative clip-on mic). I am recording solo classical guitar. What I'd like to be able to do is buy a soundcard and a decent mic or mic pair and be able to plug the mic/s into the card and just record.

Also, if i got a new soundcard (maybe audiophile) could i plug my basic computer speakers into it for playback?

Is this possible? Does the audiophile or other decent and modestly-priced cards have the right mic inputs?

I really dont know anything about recording equipment and just want to plug a mic in and go.

thank you for your time

 

[studiomaster]

Yes you can connect your computer speakers into the output of 2496. Make sure you get a 1/8" to RCA cable. you might need it for your speakers to connect. Also, considering getting a very compact mixer so u can connect your mic(s) and have one dedicated output from the mixer to the 2496's input.

 

[travelin travis]

You will need mic preamps and you will need phantom power to use condensor mics. A small mixer sounds like a good choice.

 

[rayc]

Sean,
DON'T use your computer speakers. Get REAL ones. Comp speakers are cruddy, have all sorts of built in comprensation that you can't account for/allow for and are NASTY things meant for MP3 pooh sound with MEGA BASS and similar silliness.
Run the stereo line out to, at least, a GOOD stereo amp & speaker set up that you know well.
A variety of mics - or the best you can afford, best preamp/s you can muster, mixer & DON'T USE the s/card MIC input in anything CHEAP like a s/blaster no matter how whizz bang it seems - not even santaCruz etc. Use the mixer through the stereo/line in.
That means you could by a cheapish mic, a Behringer baby mxr & run them into any soundcard's LINE IN & record into any wave recorder and get something you can work with. How much and how flash is up to you & your budget.
I started with a Tandy Mic into an old stereo amp into a s/blaster card into a bog standard default waverecorder & progressed, as time & money allowed, from there to where I am now - Nowhere in particular I know - with stuff I bought from eBay etc ( Inca 88 card, various mics, Behri & other pres, Cakewalk Pro 3, assorted outboard stuff) & I record stuff that is beginning to please me. I think that's the point
Have FUN though.
Cheers
rayC