How to connect a microphone to a computer: tips and tricks

Computer technologies occupy a rather large niche in the life of modern man. Various devices connected to the computer, allow more fully use its potential. A microphone, converting sound into an electrical signal, allows the computer to hear, perceive, analyze, store and transmit sound. This device is a necessary link in the evolutionary process of computer technology. To date, almost any desktop computer provides an integrated sound card. This allows the device to be connected via the MIC jack.

How to connect a microphone to a computer?

Depending on the purpose and type of the conversion element, this device is divided into several different groups. In order to communicate via computer through voice, multimedia microphones are used. Basically, they are used for voice communication over Skype and other computer networks of this type. Such a microphone can be connected directly through the MIC input.

How to connect a microphone to a computer in the studio or at a concert?

For studio recordings, rehearsals and other similar activities, a dynamic type microphone is required. To connect this device, you must connect it to the mixing console or preamp - the microphone preamplifier, and then - to the line input of the sound card. If the built-in preamp has a sound card, you can turn it directly into the MIC input. One of the features of such a device is the absence of the requirement for additional power.

During conferences or reports, as well as for recording voice and vocal parts, capacitor type devices are used. For work they need extra food. Usually it comes from the preamp or from the mixing console via the wire that connects them. Nutrition of this type is called phantom. If there is a phantom power microphone input , the condenser microphone can be connected via the MIC input.

Before connecting the microphone to a computer, remember that a sound recording can be obtained by using a condenser microphone. In turn, sources with extremely high sound characteristics or limited frequency ranges require the use of dynamic type devices. Schemes for their connection are relatively complex. In order to simplify this operation, manufacturers produce microphones for recording a special design. They are initially equipped with all the necessary elements, allowing both to connect the microphone to the computer via USB, and through FireWire. As a consequence, such devices are characterized by high mobility and ease of connection.

When connecting this device for the first time, you should study the manufacturer's instructions. It will specify a specific connection order, as well as a list of devices recommended for operation. There are some models with non-standard variants of connecting circuits and a special order of inclusion. Knowing and following these recommendations will protect your microphone, computer and other related equipment from damage. So that the sound recording and sound transmission devices do not spoil your mood and nerves, you need to buy such things in specialized stores.

To date, almost any modern laptop has an integrated microphone. Windows 7 as a next-generation operating system allows you to maximize available and easy to use this gadget. Simple settings, a clear interface allow the possibility of fast and high-quality recording in virtually any range.