How To Install Condenser Microphone

A condenser microphone is common, especially to those who do their recordings at home. It also comes with a reasonable price, that's why it is one of the great options for recording, especially to those who are just starting podcasts. In this article, let's discuss how to install condenser microphone and have it ready to use.

Connecting The Condenser Microphone To Computer

How to install condenser microphone comes in easy steps. Here's how.

Step 1. Buy yourself a mixer. Some microphones can still connect to your laptop without a mixer. But having a mixer will give more versatility and control in using your condenser microphone. A lot of condense microphones need phantom power provided by the mixer. A small mixer is inexpensive. Just get the one that is used for a few microphones only.

Step 2. Purchase and install a sound card than can easily connect to a 1/4 jack.

Step 3. Now try to connect the condenser microphone to the mixer and connect the mixer to the sound card.

Step 4. Look for recording software and have it installed on your laptop. A built-in sound recorder is available for Windows, but it comes with limited features. Look for a better audio recording software that allows you to record and edit your audio and other useful tools you'll need with your Recording. Some good recording software are Adobe Audition and Audacity.

Step 4. All set! You may start using your microphone to record.

Troubleshooting Steps On Some Common Microphone Issues

It's not new for someone to encounter technical problems when you set up your microphone or start using it. Here are some basic troubleshooting steps for some common problems you might have along the way.

• You are not getting a signal. If this happens, check your sound input setting if you have selected the appropriate device and audio level. To do this, go to your computer and locate the Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Sound. Next is you'll see a window pop up on the upper part of that window, click Recording. Ensure that the Microphone option is selected. In Mac computers, go to Settings > Sound > Input > check Microphone not built-in microphone.
• If you do not hear anything, check your external speakers or headset and computer volume. The volume might just not be adjusted. Increase volume for both.
• The computer is not recognizing your external microphone. If this happens, but you have correctly plugged in the device, close all the open programs, and try to restart your computer.
• Incorrect input level. If you are using a low-quality microphone, you will have to increase your computer's input level. Do this by going to Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Sound. For Mac users, go to System Settings > Sound.

Conclusion

In case you want to produce a better audio recording, don't just settle for your laptop's built-in microphone. Invest in a good one, just like the condenser microphone, as it will guarantee good quality recordings as well.