What do I need to record vocals?

[Drafhk]

Hey all,

I'm in the process of buying vocal-recording equipment. So far I've got it down to:

-Shure SM58
-Microphone Cables

I'm going to be recording into my computer; I have a pretty basic computer setup, and I'm using an iMic connector to record audio from my synthesizer. What other adapters/connectors will I need to record vocals?

[String7th]

A preamp to power the mic, and an interface that converts audio to digital. Most are built in the same unit and can cost as low as $150. You can use this for keyboards as well. It will become your new soundcard for your computer, so a set of headphones or adapters for your home stereo, depending on the outputs of the interface you pick.

Down the road, depending how far you want to get into recording, some items to save up for would be studio monitors, a set of condensors for instruments and vocals, and other mics to record any other instruments. But true studio monitors or good headphones will help you create a better sounding cd.

[brandondrury]

What would you say your budget is?

There are a zillion routes to take with this.

Brandon

[Drafhk]

Well, I was hoping I could do it for $100, but that seems unrealistic now. Maybe $250?

I'm looking for the most basic (cheapest) route possible that doesn't compromise quality too much.

[newkid]

Originally Posted by String7th

A preamp to power the mic, and an interface that converts audio to digital. Most are built in the same unit and can cost as low as $150. You can use this for keyboards as well. It will become your new soundcard for your computer, so a set of headphones or adapters for your home stereo, depending on the outputs of the interface you pick.

Down the road, depending how far you want to get into recording, some items to save up for would be studio monitors, a set of condensors for instruments and vocals, and other mics to record any other instruments. But true studio monitors or good headphones will help you create a better sounding cd.

er....
um.....
isn't the 58 a dynamic and needs no power?

Good to have phantom power built in for future upgrades to condensor mikes though.

[Tony Ramone]

Originally Posted by newkid

er....
um.....
isn't the 58 a dynamic and needs no power?

Yeah, but it still needs a preamp to boost the signal going into the computer.

[Drafhk]

This is all great advice! Thanks guys!

For a preamp/audio-digital-converter, what makes and models are good and not too expensive?

[Jonathawkes]

firebox
around 200 bucks... but will do the job nicely and has room for upgrades in the future.

PreSonus FireBox | Sweetwater.com

[String7th]

Originally Posted by Drafhk

This is all great advice! Thanks guys!

For a preamp/audio-digital-converter, what makes and models are good and not too expensive?

For starting out, nothing can beat these all-in-1 package deals:
USB interface, monitors, cables, woo-hoo!
Look at other online offers that fit your budget. These things give you the preamp, interface, cables, monitors, and usually the Cubase software to get up and running.

[newkid]

Originally Posted by Tony Ramone

Yeah, but it still needs a preamp to boost the signal going into the computer.

For a usb interface box yes.

But for cheapest way going into the pc sound card no.
I know people who do that and they are happy.
I would not be happy, but they are.

Guy didnt say if he wanted better more than cheaper.
or would pay more for improved quality.