Xlr Mic Microphone
How can I use my Shure beta 87a mic w/ my laptop to record vocal performances? What do I need for hookup?
Q: I just purchase a Shure beta 87a and need it to record vocal performances on my laptop. What is the equipment that I need to be able to use my new microphone?
I just bought a microphone XLR to 1/4 cable, but how do I plug in the microphone to my laptop when the jack is 1/8? Can I use any adapter that converts the 1/4 to 1/8 plug?
I currently have a $15 usb logitech microphone to sing with and want something better for my vocal recordings. I hope I didn’t just shell out a bunch of money and the microphone won’t even work with my system.
Will my laptop recognize the microphone without any software or drivers since it is not a usb microphone? I’m unclear as to how it could know the microphone is there and what it is.
I want to have all my ducks in a row once the mic gets here some time next week.
Has anyone else had to configure this microphone for laptop recording and if so how did you do it? If anyone has any suggestions or answers please let me know.
Thanks!
A: Ideally you will need a transformer to go from the XLR output to a 1/4″ or other connection. Getting a cable that goes from 1/4″ to 1/8″ will probably work, but I have my doubts about the quality. You should go to a music store and shop around for an audio interface box for your computer. Many have XLR mic inputs built in and they will have studio quality sound. Another route would be to buy a mixing board to plug your mic into and out of the mixer to a line level input on your computer.
How To: Make An XLR Mic From Old Rotary or Touchtone Telephone
Gold Line GL-1K Microphone Level Input Tester $39.75
This is a miniaturized 1kHz tone generator and phantom power detector built inside a standard Neutrik XLR connector. Upon dection of phantom power (12-48V) the red LED lights and turns on the audio oscillator (no batteries)….
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Anchor BP-9000M Master Belt Pack for use with ProLink Wireless Intercom System $518.00
Anchor ProLink is a new wireless intercom system that provides unprecedented ease of use and flexibility. Designed for portability, it requires no base station. However, the functionality of a base station is not abandoned. The master belt pack supports three remote belt packs at a range of 250 through walls and glass. Features include a sturdy XLR connector, mic gain control, out-of-range indicat…
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Mic Phantom Power Adapter $31,153.99
Microphone Phantom Power Adapter…
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Trans Continental Studios Making The Hit Home Recording System kit $8.95
Make the Hit lets you put your talent to the test. An interactive software package designed to let you put your talent to the test. Have you ever wondered about the the recording process and what it takes to create a hit record? Learn the behind-the-scenes tips on how you can see if you have what it takes!…
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TASCAM DP-008 8-Track Digital Portastudio $449.99
The Tascam DP008, an 8-track digital Portastudio recorder, is small enough to fit into a guitar case. The DP008 features eight tracks with built-in mixing, dedicated knobs for volume and pan for each track, plus a reverb send knob for the built-in reverb effect. The DP008 Portastudio recorder has two XLR microphone inputs with phantom power, a guitar level input and even built-in stereo mics so yo…
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BLUE Dual Cable XLR Microphone Cable $29.99
The Blue microphone 22-AWG high-fidelity microphone cable highlights the neutral presence of a mic, with an extended high and frequency response. XLR to XLR connection. Recommended for use with Blue Microphones.
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Rolls MP13 Mini-Mic Microphone Preamplifier $64.95
The Rolls MP13 Mini-Mic microphone preamplifier is a small, simple, and inexpensive microphone pre amplifier for a variety of applications. The unit has XLR and 1/4 inch Outputs, XLR and 1/8 inch Inputs, and a single Gain control with a Clip indicator. Switchable Phantom Power is included for use with a condenser microphone. The unit comes complete with a power adapter.
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Blue Icicle XLR to USB Mic Converter/Mic Preamp $59
The Icicle XLR to USB Converter/Mic Preamp lets you easily connect your favorite microphone directly to your Mac or PC. The Blue Icicle performs dual functions as an XLR to USB adapter and a studio-quality microphone preamp. It features an analog gain control and also provides 48V phantom power for condenser microphones. The Icicle converter and preamp is the quick and easy way to perform digital recording, podcasting, and voice messaging. Includes 6-ft USB cable
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Nady HM-5U Headset Mic Black XLR Adapter $45.49
This uni-directional headset microphone is optimally designed for singing and speaking applications, even in noisy environments, where a handsfree mic is ideal.
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Nady HM-5U Headset Mic Black Mini XLR $39.99
This uni-directional headset microphone is optimally designed for singing and speaking applications, even in noisy environments, where a handsfree mic is ideal.
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Shure Pg58-Qtr Dynamic Microphone With Xlr To 1/4 Phone Mic Cable $59
The Shure PG58-QTR Dynamic Mic is a solidly built dynamic microphone with a 1/4″ phone mic cable excellent for backup and lead vocals. Internal shockmounting minimizes handling noise. The mic’s smooth frequency response with improved mid and high end coupled with a more uniform cardioid pattern offers better gain-before-feedback. The Shure PG58-QTR features a neodymium magnet, pop filter, and on/off switch. Cardioid pattern rejects noise and minimizes feedback. Frequency response: 60Hz-15kHz. Includes 15′ – 1/4″ phone cable, clip, and storage bag.Rock-solid performance for backup and lead vocalsNeodymium magnet produces high outputInternal shockmountPop filterOn/off switchSmooth frequency response with improved mid and high endMore uniform cardioid pattern offers better gain-before-feedbackFrequency response: 60Hz-15kHzIncludes 15′ XLR to 1/4″ phone cable for plug-and-play convenience
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Blue Icicle Xlr To Usb Mic Converter/Mic Preamp $59
The Icicle XLR to USB Converter/Mic Preamp lets you easily connect your favorite microphone directly to your Mac or PC. The Blue Icicle performs dual functions as an XLR to USB adapter and a studio-quality microphone preamp. It features an analog gain control and also provides 48V phantom power for condenser microphones. The Icicle converter and preamp is the quick and easy way to perform digital recording, podcasting, and voice messaging. Includes 6-ft USB cableWorks with Mac or PC computersNo Special Drivers RequiredStudio Quality USB microphone preampSupplies 48V phantom power for . condenser microphonesPhantom power active lightFully balanced low noise analog front endAnalog gain control
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Shure Sm57-X2u Sm57 Mic With Xlr-To-Usb Package $199
The Shure SM57+X2u XLR-To-USB Digital Bundle includes the SM57 instrument microphone, and the X2u XLR-to-USB microphone adapter.SM57 Instrument MicrophoneThe legendary Shure SM57 microphone is exceptional for musical instrument pickup and vocals. With its bright, clean sound and contoured frequency response, the SM57 is ideal for live sound reinforcement and recording. It has an extremely effective cardioid pickup pattern that isolates the main sound source while minimizing background noise. In the studio, the mic is excellent for recording drums, guitar, and woodwinds.X2u XLR-to-USB Microphone AdapterThe Shure X2u XLR-to-USB Microphone Adapter is a modular accessory that connects any XLR microphone to your computer to create better-than-CD quality recordings. As home recording flourishes, the Shure X2u adapter redefines what musicians and podcasters can do in their homes and for on the go sound capture. The X2u mimics the sleek, beautiful design of Shure’s iconic SM57 and SM58 microphones and can be used unobtrusively for live and in-studio recording. The X2u microphone adapter provides phantom power so you can use your favorite condenser mic for direct USB recording.SM57 Instrument MicrophoneContoured frequency response for clean, instrumental reproduction and rich vocal pickupProfessional-quality reproduction for drums, percussion, and instrument amplifier mikingUniform cardioid pickup pattern isolates the main sound source while reducing background noisePneumatic shock-mount system cuts down handling noiseExtremely durable under the heaviest useFrequency response: 40 to 15,000 HzX2u XLR-to-USB Microphone AdapterPlug-and-play USB connectivity allows the convenience of digital recordinganywhere your computer can goCompatible with Windows Vista, XP, 2000, and Mac OS X 10.1 or laterProvides +48V Phantom power for use with condenser microphonesIncludes padded, zippered pouch and USB cable (9.8ft)Monitor Mix Control for blending microphone and playback audio1/8″ headphone jack with volume control for monitoringIntegrated pre-amp with microphone gain control allows control of input signal strengthZero latency monitoring for real-time playback and multitracking without disorientation16-bit, up to 48KHz sample rate for better-than-CD audio quality
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Nady Hm-5U Headset Mic Black Xlr Adapter $49.99
This uni-directional headset microphone is optimally designed for singing and speaking applications, even in noisy environments, where a handsfree mic is ideal.Unidirectional condenser element for superior, warm audio response and maximum feedback rejectionPerfect for singer-musicians (drummers, keyboardists), vocal/dance performers, DJs, public speakers, and aerobics instructorsLightweight, comfortable design and visually unobtrusive. Maximum stability during use, even when moving, dancing, etc.Firm, adjustable gooseneck boom that can be easily repositioned to any angle during performanceAvailable with mini-XLR, 3.5mm phono plug (fits most standard wireless bodypack transmitters), or with standard XLR adapter for all wired and wireless applications
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Nady Hm-5U Headset Mic Black Mini Xlr $39.99
This uni-directional headset microphone is optimally designed for singing and speaking applications, even in noisy environments, where a handsfree mic is ideal.Unidirectional condenser element for superior, warm audio response and maximum feedback rejectionPerfect for singer-musicians (drummers, keyboardists), vocal/dance performers, DJs, public speakers, and aerobics instructorsLightweight, comfortable design and visually unobtrusive. Maximum stability during use, even when moving, dancing, etc.Firm, adjustable gooseneck boom that can be easily repositioned to any angle during performanceAvailable with mini-XLR, 3.5mm phono plug (fits most standard wireless bodypack transmitters), or with standard XLR adapter for all wired and wireless applications
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Musician’s Gear Xlr Microphone Cable 10 Pack $49.99
Durable, flexible 20′ Lo-Z mic cables feature a male XLR plug on one end and a female on the other.
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Shaker Dynamic Xlr Harmonica Microphone $87.95
The Shaker’s Dynamic XLR Harmonica Mic is warm, thick, full bodied, and has lots of harmonic overtones as well as great feedback rejection. The mic offers a wide frequency response and strong mid range. The microphone fits in your harp hand with almost no conscious effort, greatly reducing hand fatigue and allowing greater use of both hands for gestures. This is just an outstanding-sounding harp mic featuring an 11-detent volume control knob. You can even use this Shaker dynamic microphone as a vocal or saxophone mic.Shaker Harmonica Microphones are part of a complex music making system, one that includes the harmonica, the player’s hands, the microphone, the amp, and the player’s personal techniques. Traditional methods of measuring response and behavior become pretty much irrelevant because Shaker mic’s don’t fit strictly into the established categories of polar patterns. By using a sampling of the harmonica’s sound and directing it through acoustic ports into a volume-tuned chamber, Shaker mics become, in essence, miniature hand-held recording studios. This is known as Shaker GNS technology, or good noise sampling, resulting in great tone, extreme technique sensitivity, and tremendous feedback rejection. Designed and engineered by Shakey Joe, these mics are totally handmade in the US and utilize as many American-made parts as possible, making Shaker microphones the real deal. Shaker micropnones are made in the Arizona desert by harp players, for harp players.Dynamic elementOutput: Switchcraft XLR 3-pin connector wired pin-2-hotVolume control with 11 micro detents for referenceA big, thick sound with complex harmonic overtones, a sax-like tone, & tremendous feedback rejection
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Crown Cm311 Headworn Condenser Mic Xlr $349
The CM-311A is the latest version of the Crowns proprietary Differoid technology. Differoid stands for differential cardioid. Its cardioid pickup pattern rejects sounds from the rear, such as floor monitors. Its noise-canceling ability also rejects sounds at a distance, such as instruments on stage and crowd noise. This results in the CROWN CM-311 having outstanding gain-before-feedback and isolation. Controlled field tests showed that the Differoid provides up to 12 dB more gain before feedback than conventional cardioid microphones. Many users of the Differoid say that their house mix is better because the mic”s isolation is nearly complete. Designed for touring and live-sound applications, the Crown CM-311A is a rugged head-worn microphone with unequalled performance. It sounds like the best handheld microphones full, clear, and distortion-free, even with the loudest singers. Lightweight and comfortable, the mics headband and boom adjust to fit any singer. An included pop filter greatly reduces breath noise and pops. Because of the booms unique behind-the-ear design, it does not cover up the singers face. Cardioid polar pattern Defferoid noise cancelling technologie Outstanding gain-before-feedback and isolation Premium head-worn microphone Handsfree use Available with XLR, mini XLR, and TA4F connectors Applications Lead vocals Backing vocals Lectern Intercom systems
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