What all do I need for a good instrument and voice recording microphone?

[Straitsfan]

Hello all --

Man, I can't remember the last time I was here.

I'm looking for a good microphone to record instruments. I'm a guitar player and would like to record some compositions, etc.

I've heard that the Shure SM57 is a standard for instrument recording. But I don't know what else I would need as I want to record into Garage Band on my Mac and Linux Software. So could you tell me what else I need to go into a computer? As well, I think I need to buy a stand but I'm not sure what kind; nothing special, just a good basic adjustable stand that I can manipulate/rotate to place the mic in front of my amplifier.

What mics are recommended for vocal recording?

If you have any other questions or need any other information please let me know.

 

[gecko zzed]

You won't lose by getting an SM57. You will need an audio interface. The SM57 plugs into the interface, and the interface connects to the mac via USB.

 

[TalismanRich]

The simplest setup would be a USB mic, like a Rode NT1 5th Gen. It eliminates the need for the interface, but you don't have options for direct in recording that way. It's a pretty good mic, and if you decide to take a deeper plunge into recording, it also has a standard XLR connection to use with an audio interface.

An SM57 is a good mic, but you will need an interface. Another budget choice that is actually darn good is an MXL V67G.

If you want an interface, try to get a 2 channel one to start. The day will come when you want to record two mics. A Motu M2 is an excellent choice, as it the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2. If budget requires, you can always get by with a Behringer UMC204HD.

A On-Stage boom stand or a house brand (Musicians Friend, etc) will run you about $30 or so. You don't need a heavy weighted stand to start out.

For home recording, a couple of XLR balanced mic cables are needed. $15-20 for a 20 ft cable should cover it. ProCo and Hosa makes good cable. You don't need gold plated connectors and Mogami wiring. Either the cable works or it doesn't. I bought a bunch of cables on sale at Guitar Center years ago, and they work fine.


If you go with the NT1 and a stand, it will cost you under $300. You can do basic recording, but are limted to just using a mic for recording.

You can go with the UMC204HD, an SM57 or V67G-HE, stand and cables will run you about $300. Upgrading to a Motu M2 will be about $400.

 

[Bstrom]

Stereo recording is highly recommended in professional circles - gives you the ability to combine wet and dry tracks. An interface and mics is needed as mentioned above.

If you are going bare bones, a USB mic like the ddsktop Blue Yeti is an ideal condenser to start with. You'll have mono channels and can build from there in GB or other DAW.