new to PC recording -- need help

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CLSNIN

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I'm using a variety of software to multi-track on my PC and I am getting a white noise type background sound on all of my tracks. I am running my mic into my rack processor and then it into my soundcard's mic input. I can't get much signal when I try using the sound input. Any advice or suggestions on a better way to rig things or how to eliminate that background noise?

Thanks.
 
What kind of sound card?
What does the signal sound like through monitors before you hit the record button? Is the noise present "at idle"?

If you're using a reducer to go from 1/4 to 1/8" into the soundcard, you're open to more noise. What kind of mic cable?

Welcome to the site! :cool:
 
Thanks for the response.

My setup is entirely primitive and low-end. I am using my computer's standard soundcard (ESS audiodrive) and I am using a reducer to input 1/4" cable to 1/8" soundcard jack.

I'm using my rack processor to try to boost the mic signal as a kind of make-shift preamp and perhaps that's one of the main problems causing the noise.

The background white noise I described doesn't occur while the sound is idled thru the monitor or headphones but it is present during playback of a recorded file.

I know I need to go about building myself a more sophisticated studio but I'm trying to figure out ways to use what I have now rather than stay analog!
 
Use the line input, not the mic input on your soundcard. :cool:
 
Effects processors wont work as a mic preamp. That is the #1 problem.

What is your mic? That is probably problem #2

And if do go out of the effects processor than, yes, you need to go into the line inputs on your sound card.

Try using the mic straight into the mic input. That will give you the most immediate improvement.
 
yeah. . . never use the mic input on computers the preamps just suck. . . use the line input. . . and don't use the onboard sound or anything made by soundblaster. . .excapt maybe platnum series. . .

If you think you will need multitracking don't be afraid to shell out the cash expecailly if you want to try to make money. I picked up an aardvark q10 for $700 has 8 XLR or 1/4 inputs and I love it. . . but you can get other high quality stuff for $200-$300 with out all the features

also as stated in previous post. . . try plugging the mic in with out the mixer. . . every thing you add to the chain will add noise so I feel it's better to record strait and then add effects later. . . because say. . . maybe next week you rich uncle dies and leaves you $10,000 you can buy better equipment and get a better sound without having to start completely over.
 
zekthedeadcow said:
. . . try plugging the mic in with out the mixer. . .
Click to expand...

That won't work going into the line input, you need some type of preamp.

With the eqipment he's got, Tex's suggestion is probably the best - use the mic input on the soundcard. Sure, the preamp on the board ain't great, but with the stuff at hand, there's not a lot of options.
 
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