I recently purchased an SM-57 mic, and I use Audacity. I am wanting to record music to Audacity straight to the soundcard, without any pre-amps or mixers. What cables/adapters (if all) would I need to go straight from the mic to the back of the comp? Is there a such cord with one end as a 1/8" jack and the other a line-out looking thing? Or what would I need exactly..I'd appreciate any help!

thanks

You need a low-impedance mic cord, then you need a low-to-hi converter, then you will need an adapter or two to reduce the 1/4" plug to whatever plug your soundcard accepts.

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/category/c873

http://www.sweetwater.com/images/items/XVM105-large.jpg

The sound won't be as good as if you used a "proper" pre-amp but you'll be able to record using this.

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/category/c873

http://www.sweetwater.com/images/items/XVM105-large.jpg

The sound won't be as good as if you used a "proper" pre-amp but you'll be able to record using this.
No you won't! It's got a big old hole in the middle!

It's wireless! :p

:DIt's wireless! :p

Have u checked out that lightsnake product. I know i saw a guitar cord that went straight into usb, converters and all. I think they make a USB to xlr cable also. In fact here it is http://www.soundtech.com/lightsnake/xlr10.asp. Its more expensive than just the analog cord but itll sound much much better.

Have u checked out that lightsnake product. I know i saw a guitar cord that went straight into usb, converters and all. I think they make a USB to xlr cable also. In fact here it is http://www.soundtech.com/lightsnake/xlr10.asp. Its more expensive than just the analog cord but itll sound much much better.

Definitely the way to go. The more adapters you use, the lower quality you get. Samson is making some microphones that have the USB cable already attached. You just have to make sure your soundcard will pick it up. You might have to open up your sound settings and choose your preferred input from a dropdown menu.

More of a microphone suggestion: if you're using an SM57 for vocals, that's pretty decent choice - for stage use. Production microphones for voice, bass, guitar, or kickdrum need a large diaphragm to enhance the lower frequencies and give you a more dynamic range of sound to work with. AKG makes some great ones - I'm sure your local Musicians' Friend catalog will offer quite a selection of a variety of brands and price ranges.