Microphone Output

[outofwak55]

Hey, Ive been trying to record for a while and i dont know whats wrong. My Microphone out put is just really really low. You can hardly hear anything. Ive tried three microphones so I dont think its that, I dont know what setting are wrong on my computer, i set the microphone volume all the way up. Any ideas?
Thanks.

[bigbuda]

What kind of microphone are you using? Are you using a preamp? What kind of interface are you using to record? USB, Firewire, straight to the PC?

[outofwak55]

Its going stright into my pc, no preamp. Ive got a Shure mic, a DM-20SL2(dont know the brand), and a Rauland or something like that. Thanks for the help, any ideas?

[bigbuda]

Yeah, you will need to get a preamp to boost your mic signal. There are several out there for under 100 bucks. Look at musicians friend. That should take care of your problem. This one gets a pretty good rating.
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/srs7/g=guitar/search/detail/base_id/114126

[outofwak55]

thanks alot. That should be the only problem? Ill defiantely check it out.

[bigbuda]

The only other problem I can see you possibly having is with your sound card. I don't know what kind of sound card you are using but you said you are plugging straight into the mic input. Your sound card should have a direct input or line in and that's the one you want to use for your recording. My factory sound card did not have this option so I bought a soundbalster 5.1 at Wal Mart for 40 dollars. It's not the best soundcard on the market but it gets the job done.

[outofwak55]

Yea mine does have the direct line in and the mic in. im pretty sure its a sound blaster, came with the computer. Thanks alot. Ill let you know how it goes when i get a preamp, just got to get some cash. :)

[bigbuda]

Just be sure to connect whatever you are recording to the direct input and not the mic input. That alone will help your sound. Let us know how it works for you.

[RiddiM]

Not too sure what mic's you've got, but if they're condensers they will need phantom power. which is usually provided by certain mixers or recording interfaces. but if they are dynamic, ribbon, etc... ignore me, just thought it might be worth checking :)