using PC to record?

[Rich_S]

Re: using PC to record?

A suggestion for a cheap preamp: check out old Shure M67 mic mixers on eBay. The M67 was a broadcast-quality mixer used in TV remotes, etc. Low on features, high on quality. The M68 is similar, but no meter and the specs aren't quite as good. They're real simple, just 4 volume controls, but they will kick that SM57 up to line level, and let you bypass your soundcard's mic input altogether.

I got my M67 for about $20, untested due to it's cut-off power cord. I replaced the cord, cleaned the pots, and presto, instant mic preamp. Inside, they're built like a tank - classic discrete 70's circuitry.

Here's an example:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=7313322301&fromMakeTrack=true

If you look at M68's watch out - some of them have backwards XLR connectors (male in the mixer) so a standard mic cable won't fit.

 

[Artie]

Re: using PC to record?

Shreder an sm57 is a dynamic microphone there is no switch to turn it on. Most mics don't have switches to turn them on unless they are a wireless mic.

Actually, my SM57 does have a switch to turn it on and off. Its a "mute" switch actually, but same difference. Shure made these in several configurations, and mine is one of the ones made for podium use, so you could mute it when not in use.

 

[shreder75]

Re: using PC to record?

where's this switch located?

thanks for the info Rich...I'm hearing some conflicting thigns between people I ask...some say they went right into the sound card with no problems..but most say to get a mic pre amp...and some say it will work without but to still get one....lol....probably be better off with one..probably make it sound better anyway...

anywho, my clips are on the tips and clips page using my crummy pc mic =)

 

[Rich_S]

Re: using PC to record?

If your SM57 has a switch, it'll be obvious - right on the side. Most do NOT have the switch.

As for the straight-to-card/preamp question, most people find that no matter how good the sound card is, the mic input sucks. It's designed for making clever little .wav files for Windows, or for teleconferencing.

In other than bargain-basement sound cards, the line input is much better. Hence, you buy a quality outboard mic preamp, and connect it to the Line input. Many people like the many tube-based models out there; I cheaped out and bought the old Shure mixer.

 

[shreder75]

Re: using PC to record?

Rich--

ah, I see what you're saying...allthe more reason to get a mic pre amp..to use the superior line input =)

learn somethign new every day..thanks!

 

[Artie]

Re: using PC to record?

Yeah . . . what Rich S said. I probably shouldn't have made the "switch" comment. It wasn't really relevant, and would only confuse. If your 57 had a switch, it would be obvious.

Behringer makes an inexpensive little mixer for $35, and Peavey has a new one thats real nice thats around $80. That might be more than you want to spend, but it does add a lot of options. Like playing a portable CD through it, and being able to play along. Stuff like that.

 

[AmirH]

Re: using PC to record?

yeah, I even put the mic boost (+ 20dB) on and it didn't work...so I'm sure you guys are right when you say that I need a mic pre amp...nothing to drive it..it's a totally different animal than the voice mic that came with my old pc...

I have a soundblaster audigy, which is a pretty good sound card..

how much is that ART? money's not exactly free flowing these days..my puppy just ate through my optical digital surround sound cable for my xbox..grrrrrrrrrrrr...this is after she ate through my sub woofer cable..AND two xbox controllers...bitch! lol...so I have to replace that now as well..ugh...

The ART unit is 50 bucks. Behringer makes a decent knockoff for about 30, but it's worth it to get the ART really. Just pirate cooledit(now adobe audition) or get n-track as someone else suggested. Yes, the line in on your card will be much better than the mic input, but using an adapter still deteriates the signal and can cause unwanted noise. Still, you shouldn't need to drop a hundred bucks on a recording soundcard unless you get super serious and production saavy. I DO however recommend the preamp over a small mixer because the cheap electronics in those mixers will color your sound in a bad way and the preamp won't. Do your mixing after your record the signal. A physical mixer is only a good thing for PA application or if it's really high-end for a pro environment.

 

[shreder75]

Re: using PC to record?

I'm definetly going to be looking into a mic pre amp in the upcomming months..money's kinda tight right now so I'm gonan stick with my crummy pc mic...it actually doesn't sound too too bad...if you go to tips and clips and check out some of the recordings I made you'll see that, while it's not the cat's pajamas, it's not that horrendous either =)

and I downloaded kristal engine last night..pretty cool program..considering the price, it's literally a steal =)