Karaoke Forums

Hi there,

I realize I am just a newbie so if I'm not posting this in the right place my apologies.  

I'm currently looking for a good karaoke (or better) type mic suitable for use with a PC running Windows XP?  I already have the software needed to record and mix with, but was looking for any input anyone can give.

I'd been using the Priddis Morph-1 adapter, and the mic it came with, to record lead or background vocals onto original or karaoke music.  However, I have to turn it up all the way in order to hear my vocals on the recording.  I was wondering if there was anything better out there I could use instead?  

If this question has been asked previously, please feel free to direct me to the topic.  I did search the forums a bit, but didn't have time to do a thorough search.

Thanx.

Lynda

Hi Lynda, welcome to Karaoke Scene.

When I first started trying to record through the PC, I used a Shure PG58 wired mic  and a couple of adaptors to convert from the XLR plug to a 1/8 plug for the PC.  This worked well for me, until I splashed out on a mixer.  Now I just record direct from the headphones output of the mixer to an mp3 recorder.

Thanx for the welcome!

I did try using my mic and a plain adapter from the store (Radio Shack) in first the line in and then the mic input....but the volume was still extremely low...and I had to turn the levels up as far as they would go, yet my vocals were still barely distinguishable.

I've heard some folks use an amp (but not sure what wattage would be safe) and others use a mixer....are these the only solutions?  Just want to know, so I know what to do next.

Do you have the MIC BOOST box ticked in your Windows volume control (have to have ADVANCED CONTROLS on in the options tag.


That makes a big difference to mic levels

Yep, still doesn't make that much of a difference.   It helps but not as much as I need.

If nothing works for you, I would suggest using XLR to USB cable. What they do is, it lets you connect normal mics, like SM58 suggested above, and digitize it at the source so it connects via USB on your computer.

Here is one example, cable. Because they are digital input, they tend to do better with volume, clarity, etc. It's not cheap but certainly not expensive. Try it out and I think you will find it better. Good luck.

_________________

Seize the day and SING!!!

I got the LightSnake cable from a local Guitar Center for $45 and it works ok. My only complaint is the flashing green light at both ends... looking for that black electrical tape right now

But yeh, it boosts the signal from the mic (pre-amp) and has an XLR connector so may save you a few $ on a cable. Attaching a mic cable to a computer has a risk of doing some serious damage to your computer, if you trip on the cord or pull on it by accident. Maybe I'm just full of energy... dance around a bit while singing! (embarrassed grin)

To avoid this, I make a loop in the cable between the computer and the mic around a table leg or other solid object.

 Randy

eben, thanx for the link!  I will definitely check it out.  I don't mind paying $40 or even twice that much, just as long as I have something that will work good.   I already have a good mic, so it'll be no problem to get a new cable.  

(Personally I do like the Morph-1 from Priddis, but just wish the mic volume was a little more powerful.  Ah well...)