Help with recording audio to computer...

[MistaMarko]

I just bought an SM57, and I have a pretty good recording program on my computer. What exactly do I need in order to use this mic to record to the program...do I need a small mixing board? Certain type of cable(s)...can anyone help me?

 

[courderoy guy]

Depends on what you want to do. If the idea is to simply mic something and record it into your computer, and you aren't looking for a pro-sounding recording:

1. Hook up microphone using an xlr to 1/8th inch cable into your computer's sound card. Plug it into the "line in" or, alternately, mic in slot on your sound card.

2. Start up recording program.

3. Adjust levels appropriately. Sometimes you'll use the computer's volume control settings, sometimes the software will have something. Use whatever you use to adjust your audio.***** (see below)

4. Hit record and start playing.

If you aren't quite getting the sound you want, you can shape it using a mixing board, mic preamp, or a host of other things.

***** - If you are using a PC, go to volume control and double click. Click on the record settings button. Go to mic or line in and adjust accordingly.