Home Recording/Vocal Mic Setup

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Expert: Jason Fryer - 6/10/2009


Question
Hey,

I'm new to using microphones and everything, but basically what I want to do is record vocals and drumming (but mainly vocals) onto my computer. The mic I'm considering is the AKG Perception 220 ( http://www.amazon.com/AKG-Perception-220-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B00167UQLO ) and after a little research as to what else I would need to go along with the mic, I might get the Behringer MIC100 as well ( http://www.amazon.com/Behringer-MIC100-Vacuum-Preamplifier-Limiter/dp/B0002E50KY... ). I noticed that in an answer to someone else, you recommended the Behringer Xenyx 1002, but I think that might be too much for my purpose. Can you tell me if the setup I'm proposing is alright and what else I would need? Should I wire the output of the mixer to my computer's 1/8" microphone port or will that reduce quality? Also, if you know about this mixer, are both of the two XLR ports (male and female) on the MIC100 for input?

Thank you

Answer
Hi Alvin, that seems like a decent start, the only other thing I'd suggest is a decent audio interface. The 1/8" input on computers really doesn't do well for audio recording & getting any decent kind of results. Here's a link to check out for an interface:

http://www.m-audio.com/products/en_us/FastTrackPro.html

Hope that helps, if you need anything else, just drop me a line.
Peace - J.

Home Recording

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Jason Fryer

Expertise




I specialize in Macintosh recording systems on OS X & am well versed in most of the available software titles relative to the platform. I can answer most questions about home recording in general such as: Mic placement, recording/mixing/mastering techniques, control room set up, acoustics & acoustical treatment & choosing the right equipment for specific recording applications. I do not answer PC related questions, or questions pertaining CD/DVD copying or ripping.

URL: River CIty Junction

Experience

I have been working in studios for over 20 years both as a recurring artist playing on my own recordings & as a session musician, engineer & producer. I run a Mac based studio from my home, use mostly Logic or Garageband. I'll use Garageband for writing & Pre-Prod & move the project over to Logic afterwards. I also have experience using Pro Tools, Digital Performer, Ableton Live & many others. My preferences are Logic & Pro Tools & as such my area of expertise is focussed in these two apps. I'm also an IT guy, sysadmin & electronics technician so can help with technical questions relating to studio operation & maintenance.

Organizations
River CIty Junction (Guitarist)

Education/Credentials
Musician's Professional Workshop Scholarship (CHOM FM)
Vanier College (Classical Music - Guitar)
Herzing Institute (Micro-Computer Electronics)
Have taken numerous online courses in recording/engineering

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