mic into mac query

[bod]

Hi folks

I'm looking to home record audio working as far as possible with what I already have, so that's into a mac mini (4.1) using a Rode NT3 (an XLR condenser mic that can use phantom or go with an onboard PP3 battery, more details in this SOS review ). Thing is, my old interface is dead, so I'm missing a link and looking for a solution I won't regret for no more than I need to spend.

Now, this might just be a real numpty's question (and if it is there is a simple explanation for that ), but I see that there are various inexpensive mic pres now available for £30 - £90 (e.g., Art Tube - PreSonus Tube) and some stuff I read seems to invite the idea that you could use something like this, on its own, to get your mic into your computer, but is this viable or do I really need an interface (which, I believe, will introduce a different - hopefully better - sound card into the process)?

(If a mic pre will work ok for now, but better with an interface, that'll do as I can always get an interface later when funds allow...)

There are also simple looking cables that seem to be XLR one end and USB the other, I've been mentally ruling those out - am I making a mistake? 

Any ideas welcome

Thanks 





   

[myk]

Bod

May be a bit over your budget but the mic by apogee is outstanding:

apogeedigital.com/products/mic.php

There are others on this site who can confirm this.

myk

[slidingdog]

Hey Bod

If you need advice and to maybe even try before you buy check out 'Production Room' in Leeds. Their supposedly really helpful and price match (although i bet most places do nowadays) even on internet prices. I've personally not bought anything from them but friends have and highly recommend.  www.production-room.com/categories/361/Computer-Interfaces/

Focusrite or M-Audio are a pretty good in my opinion just check the gain intake limit on certain models as have had issues with incoming audio peaking at a max of -40dB even with everything maxed out. 

No Worries

John

[Keith Ambridge]

Would the irig pre work on a computer? I'm certainly going to get one for my iphone. At around £23 it must be worth a try!

[Deleted]

I too have the Apogee USB mic which is fabulous for the money...

The catch for me is I like to sing and play at the same time and prefer to sing right up close to the mic...proximity effect.....and I have Not been able to get a nice balance of guitar and vocal.

The other option which I am really enjoying is a bit more expensive initially, but could be a bit more utilitarian later on - I bought a little A&H mixer that also has a simple USB line out, so I can get a mix with 2 or 3 mics on my guitar/vocal.

Just add a powered JBL for live gigs!

BluesKing777.

[bod]

Nov 22, 2013 21:26:11 GMT Keith Ambridge said:

Would the irig pre work on a computer? I'm certainly going to get one for my iphone. At around £23 it must be worth a try!

I had glanced at these, but thought they were only good for ipods, pads and the like. After you asked, I had another look at the IK site and it seems they work on some computers:

Mac®: Most Mac computers starting from late 2008 are compatible with the exception of the Mac Pro line.
To check if your Mac is compatible select: About This Mac > More Info > System Report > Audio
and check that "External Microphone / iPhone headset" is appearing on the list of included features.

Reviews seem mixed, but as you suggest, at the price it is worth a shot.

More generally, thanks all. The other solutions all have their merits and at a guess are almost undoubtedly superior, but right now something that gets me recording asap is what is needed and minimal outlay is trumps! 

[Bob Stockton]

Would a USB mixer fit what you want to do?

[bod]

Nov 24, 2013 9:59:42 GMT Bob Stockton said:

Would a USB mixer fit what you want to do?

I have absolutely no idea, Bob - p'raps you missed the gist of the 'numpty' clause in the original post? My lack of knowledge in this area is demonstrable and palpable!

I can tell you what I want to do, though: mainly make use of home recording as a learning tool - by listening to what I play, by recording and then playing along (different instruments might get used), explore ways of leaving more space for another to play in... might also be nice if I could do clips for sharing. But from the little I know it seems like, what with Garageband on the computer and resources and facilities available online, if I can get my mic going into the computer the rest should be doable, after a fashion at least.... If I'm just wrong about that, please do let me know. Otherwise my current thought is that I just need something to plug the mic in, so I can get started, then I'll start to be better placed for knowing what I want next - fingers crossed it's not something that directly replaces the first thing I get!