Which microphone is better?

[helleniq]

I am trying to find a good microphone for vocal recording, just for home studio entertainment and stuff.
I am not sure if the professional microphone produced by Shure can be used on our home computer, I really like the recording quality of the KSM44 dual condenser diaphragm or the KSM9 handheld Microphone, which one is better? also can I plugged them into the computer directly? or do I need some special equipment?
More recommendation for me will be excellent, i am new to these stuff. Thanks a lot for helping!

 

[gecko zzed]

or do I need some special equipment?

Yes, you need special equipment.

Search for audio interfaces.

 

[darrin_h2000]

Id go for the KSM44 myself...the handheld might tend to be more like a KSM32.

 

[helleniq]

Thanks a lot for reply!
I know, KSM9 is like handheld KSM32, which KSM32 only cost 400 dollars.
For the interface, is Cakewalk - Roland UA1G USB Audio Interface alright? is every interface supporting all microphones, or is there any specific type of usb audio interface for different type of microphone???

Also it said that KSM9 can be wireless as well, anyone know what kind of additional instrument do I need to performance that?

 

[Jim Lad]

You need to go here http://www.tweakheadz.com/guide.htm and read through this guy's stuff.
That's not to send you away.
It really is a good site.

 

[mixsit]

I am trying to find a good microphone for vocal recording, just for home studio entertainment and stuff.

...More recommendation for me will be excellent, i am new to these stuff. Thanks a lot for helping!

Hate to presume, but that may (or may not ) be quite a chunk of change for the application. Depending and such.
You may want to look into 'mics for untreated rooms or 'background noise considerations as well if that applies.
You could very well be as well off with one of the nice sounding and tighter patteren mics in the 150-$300 range.

 

[darrin_h2000]

Hate to presume, but that may (or may not ) be quite a chunk of change for the application. Depending and such.
You may want to look into 'mics for untreated rooms or 'background noise considerations as well if that applies.
You could very well be as well off with one of the nice sounding and tighter patteren mics in the 150-$300 range.

I agree...I like to reccommend the KSM series and AT40s...but the room is a place you want in order first...a dynamic is a much better choice if you are in a crappy room.

 

[helleniq]

Thanks a lot for helping and suggesting, it really helps!
Mention the 100-300 price range product, is the Shure SM86 good for it's price and quality? If I buy this one, I will still need an audio interface, yes? also I have noticed a Shure X2U XLR to USB Microphone Adapter sold in shop, is it the same as the interface ???

 

[Shadow_7]

A lot of what you need depends on what you want. It sounds like you're just starting out which can add up budget wise quickly. Before you even get a mic. Mic -> Preamp -> Converter -> Computer. Some mics (USB) combine the Mic -> Preamp -> Converter parts. A lot of interfaces combine the Preamp -> Converter parts, but not all. Factor in that if you part out each part, you also need cables and sometimes adapters to bridge the gap between parts. And all of that costs money and can quickly gobble $300 before you even get a mic. And then there's room treatments and other considerations. Not trying to scare you, but you really should do some reading. The KSM 44 is a good mic. But it needs a good room. And it's generally closer to $500 used. A nice dynamic mic might better suit your needs / budget if you don't want to invest in the total package. If you just need it for a one time deal, you might be better off renting some time/gear with a local studio.

 

[Big Kenny]

A lot of what you need depends on what you want. It sounds like you're just starting out which can add up budget wise quickly. Before you even get a mic. Mic -> Preamp -> Converter -> Computer. Some mics (USB) combine the Mic -> Preamp -> Converter parts. A lot of interfaces combine the Preamp -> Converter parts, but not all. Factor in that if you part out each part, you also need cables and sometimes adapters to bridge the gap between parts. And all of that costs money and can quickly gobble $300 before you even get a mic. And then there's room treatments and other considerations. Not trying to scare you, but you really should do some reading. The KSM 44 is a good mic. But it needs a good room. And it's generally closer to $500 used. A nice dynamic mic might better suit your needs / budget if you don't want to invest in the total package. If you just need it for a one time deal, you might be better off renting some time/gear with a local studio.

sound advice

 

[omtayslick]

You need to go here http://www.tweakheadz.com/guide.htm and read through this guy's stuff.
That's not to send you away.
It really is a good site.

Jim is right. Read the tweakheadz guide. It will aquaint you with the basics, show you the options, and possibly keep you from making a purchasing mistake.