Being able to record a microphone into a computer or laptop has become an essential skill for anyone interested in music production or content creation.
Whether you’re a singer, podcaster, or voice actor, knowing how to set up your equipment and record high-quality vocals is crucial.
In this how-to guide, we’ll take you through the steps of how to record a microphone into a computer or laptop, from choosing the right microphone to setting up your digital workstation.
By the end, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to create professional-grade recordings from the comfort of your own home.
Overview
Recording vocals into a computer involves capturing the sound of a singer’s voice using a microphone, interface, and a digital audio workstation (DAW). The process typically involves the following steps:
- Selecting a microphone: Different types of microphones can produce different sound qualities, so choosing the right one for the singer and the style of music is crucial.
- Setting up the microphone: The microphone should be positioned correctly to capture the singer’s voice clearly and without unwanted noise or distortion.
- Connecting the microphone to the computer: This is typically done using an audio interface, which converts the analog signal from the microphone into digital data that the computer can process.
- Setting up a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW): The DAW is software that allows the user to record, edit, and mix audio. Once the software is open, a new audio track is created for the vocals.
- Recording the Microphone: The singer performs into the microphone while the DAW records the audio to the track.
Overall, recording vocals into a computer requires careful attention to equipment selection, setup, and recording techniques to achieve high-quality results.
1. Selecting a Microphone
The two main types of microphones for recording are dynamic and condenser. Dynamic microphones are rugged and good for high sound pressure levels, while condenser microphones are more sensitive and require 48V phantom power.
Dynamic
Condenser
Dynamic Microphones
Dynamic microphones are often used in live performances and recording settings where there are high sound pressure levels, such as drums, guitar amplifiers, and vocals.
They are rugged and can withstand rough handling, making them ideal for on-stage use.
Dynamic microphones can handle high volumes without distortion, making them suitable for recording loud sources without clipping or distortion.
Overall, dynamic microphones are a reliable and versatile option for recording in a variety of settings, particularly when dealing with high sound pressure levels.
Condenser Microphones
Condenser microphones are often used in recording studios and other settings where high-quality audio capture is desired.
These condenser mics are particularly well-suited for recording acoustic instruments, vocals, and other sources that require a high level of detail and nuance.
However, condenser mics can be more delicate than dynamic microphones, and may require external power (phantom power, 48V) to operate, which can limit their portability.
Additionally, their sensitivity can make them prone to picking up unwanted background noise, which can be a challenge to manage in some recording settings.
Overall, condenser microphones are a powerful tool for capturing high-quality audio in controlled recording environments.
Find a list of the best microphones for recording here
2. Setting up the Microphone
Once you have the desired microphone style chosen, setting up a microphone for recording is a fairly straightforward process.
Most, if not all microphones are best used while remaining approximately 2-6 inches away from the singers mouth, depending on microphone type.
By optimizing this distance, the recordings you capture will be with the clearest sound possible.
If the distance is too close you can get a muffled sound, if it’s too far away you’ll include a lot more background noise (reverb), from the vocal sound “slapping back” off nearby walls.
With dynamic microphones it’s ok to use the mic on a stand or simply holding onto it.
However with condenser microphones it’s most beneficial to use the mic on a stand with a pop filter and shock mount in place.
3. Connecting the Microphone to a Computer/Laptop
Connecting the microphone to a computer or laptop is done typically through a USB interface. The Interface will convert the analog signal from the microphone to a digital signal which can be read by a computer.
Here is a list of USB Audio Interfaces to choose from. (YOU CANNOT CONNECT AN XLR-TYPE MICROPHONE TO A LAPTOP OR COMPUTER WITHOUT THIS DEVICE)
Connect the XLR cable from the microphone to the front input on the USB Audio Interface.
Now connect the USB cable from the rear USB output on the interface to a USB input on the laptop
From here your computer/laptop will attempt to install the necessary audio driver for the interface via WIFI/Internet connection.
With the setup completed, and the necessary software has been installed, the next step is to setup up a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW) on your computer/laptop.
4. Setting up a Digital Audio Workstation (DAW)
In this example, we will use Studio One, a professional-level DAW with a lot of user-friendly features.
Downloading and Installing the DAW onto your computer
To get started, you will need to download , install and activate Studio One on your computer.
Complete your setup then return to this guide.
If you don’t want to use Studio One, here are some of the most popular DAWs on the market this year.
Add the USB Audio Interface to the DAW
To add your USB Interface, navigate to the main screen of Studio One.
Select “Configure Audio Device” at the bottom section of the screen
A pop up screen will appear for the ‘Audio Setup” control panel
Navigate to the “Windows Audio” dropdown menu and find your Audio Interface
Now that the setup is complete it’s time to start recording a microphone.
5. Recording the Microphone
Click “Create a new song” from the Studio One main screen
Choose the “Empty Song” option and fill in the meta information if you choose.
Once your in the mixer dashboard, select the “+” icon and fill in the meta information if you choose.
Activate the tracks record function, and if necessary, use the “Audio I/O Setup” to assign channels and Inputs. (These should be applied automatically)
Now you are free to record, mix and edit your microphone audio files.
Final Thoughts
The rise of music production and content creation makes recording vocals into a computer or laptop fundamental.
With the help of this how-to guide, you now have the tools and knowledge to set up your equipment.
So, what are you waiting for? Start recording and unleash your creative potential!