Syntrillium Backup Forums :: View topic - How do I record vocals, PLEASE HELP ASAP!!!!!

Midcoasted · Posted - Wed Sep 12, 2001 2:35 pm

Ok, I finally got my microphone that I ordered, and now Im tryin to record vocals, but they are WAY too low. You can barely hear them! Can I not jsut plug the microphone into the back of the computer? Or Do I need some other device like and amp? Or am I just doing something wrong. I dont know please help!!!! I have a deadline!!!!

motorhead_6 · Posted - Wed Sep 12, 2001 2:48 pm

Is the record level turned up all the way?

Midcoasted · Posted - Wed Sep 12, 2001 2:56 pm

Yes, trecrod volume is all the way up. Im using cool edit 2000 if u need to know.

Teddy G. · Posted - Wed Sep 12, 2001 3:45 pm

What microphone? Some need a pre-amplifier.

Syntrillium M.D. · Location: USA

Hi Mid. Frankly, with standard 1/8" PCI audio cards (ala SB, SBLive, etc) these are not really meant to have pro-level mics plugged directly into them - particularly if we're talking about a condenser. For that, you'd need Phantom Power AND a preamp.

For regular dynamic mics, you might be able to do it (provided of course that you convert XLR to 1/8") by going into your soundcard mixer and using the 'Mic Boost' option (if your card has it) which can often be found by clicking the 'advanced' tab. If this still doesn't work, then I'd say your probably out of luck and will have to get some type of preamp, or use a small mixer with mic pres. Honestly, running your mic into a preamp, and then running the Line Out of the pre into the Line In of your card will provide infinitely better sound.

---Syntrillium, M.D.

Midcoasted · Posted - Sat Sep 15, 2001 1:36 pm

Thank you for the help. I have but a pre amp in layway and will get it out next week. Well I dunno if its a pre amp but the guy said it whould do the trick. Its a votech device and its pretty neat what it can do. Now that I have figured out the mystery, I can finally make my cd! I just need to know if I need anything else besides a Pre-amp?