I use an MXL usb006. I'm just a hobbyist doing VOs for family projects but it works well for me. About $80. I also have a Zoom H2 which has a USB interface, that I use for initial VO scripting during editing.

wwaag

I use a Logitech combined headphones and mic connected through one of my USB ports. It works well for me.

The real advantage in having a connected mic (it swings down from the head strap to its position in front of the mouth) lies in the fact that you don't have to deal with the problem of keeping the mic at the same distance from your mouth. This helps to keep the input volume consistent from take to take as well as within the take itself --- I know how easy it is to turn your head to one side to look at the preview or your script when you are talking which can cause sometimes serious input variations. The unit also makes iot easier to monitor your overall sound mix.

Richard.

Check this one out. It's available for $99 at quite a few vendors that are listed on the Blue Microphones website:

Blue Microphones - Yeti

AudioTechnica AT2020USB is a great little inexpensive mic.

Or get a Firewire interface.

geoff

Computer doesn't have slot for FireWire card. Thanks for all the great suggestions. You guys rock.

RZ

Don't forget that if you record with a mic connected to the PC it will pic up the PC noise, such as fans etc.

Much better to record using a Zoom portable digital recorder, and then synch the soundtrack in Vegas.

+1 for the Logitech headset.

"Much better to record using a Zoom portable digital recorder, and then synch the soundtrack in Vegas."

+1

Even better with a Rode NT1a plugged in.

RZ,
Your computer doesn't have an Expresscard or Cardbus slot???
The firewire is an ADAPTER.

Sorry, I misunderstood. Are you suggesting Firewire to USB adapter that will help me connect M Audio 410? I looked at a few online but wasn't impressed. Maybe I didn't pick up the right one.

RZ

OK, last time.
I did not suggest a firewire to usb adapter.
Does your computer have an ExpressCard or Cardbus slot?
Google is your friend.
Best of luck.

Rather than buy another microphone (I'm assuming you've already got one) consider the MicPort Pro. I've used one a couple of times and they are good, probably the best of all such devices.

Bob.

The Shure X2U is an easy reliable USB microphone adaptor that even does phantom power , and headphone monitoring.

http://www.shure.com/americas/products/accessories/microphone-accessories/problem-solvers/x2u-xlr-to-usb-signal-adapter

geoff

Thanks. Based on what computer setup I have, I will decide between MicPort pro or Shure X2U. Could not have come up with the solution without you awesome guys. As always, I remain humbly grateful.

RZ

I frequently use the search function of the forum as a resource.

Recently, I was looking for a mic pre-amp to use for voice-over work for a project and couldn't find one locally that I liked. There seems to be a lot of tube-type preamps in the local stores, but having traveled on the road for many years with all tube-type amps, I decided to pass.

I dug out my old six channel mixer that I built in 1971 and it worked fine, but it's way more hardware sitting around than I desire. Besides, it smells of old electronics, solder flux and smoky bars.

Then, I looked at the Rode NT-USB microphone but couldn't find one locally. Also, it seems like a shame to leave three microphones that I've had for more than forty years sit in a box and spend money on yet another one. I did have to replace the cushion that isolates the capsule in one of the mics because time caused the material to decompose and the capsule was moving around in the housing. I spent $0.79 at Lowes for a couple O-rings.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/40618156/2015-04-24%20Mic%20Repair/AKG%20D1000E.jpg

Reading this thread, I decided to try the Shure X2U. It's been good so far. Since it's USB bus powered, I seem to get more use out of it and my laptop than I originally anticipated. Now, I can make use of those ancient mics recording directly to a computer. They could lose the volume control on the front end for my purposes. I think I'd be just as happy with a 6 db or 12 db switched attenuator.

I've got lots of time on my hands. I've even started making up my own XLR cables again.

Since your M-Audio Firewire 410 doesn't connect, you might want to get a complete USB Audio Interface to replace it. PreSonis makes some nice ones (the AudioBox 22VSL $99 retail is a nice little box). I'm not really happy with M-Audio anymore so I really can't recommend them.

I also like the AudioTechnica AT2020 USB. It's an awesome sounding mic for the price if you don't have a mic already.

~jr

A USB mic can only be used on a computer or usb-capable input device.
Instead of spending $150 on a USB mic, spend $100 more on a VO mic that can be used anywhere. Rode NT1-A comes to mind.

I shop the flea markets for used gear. I see USB mics out there all the time that have spent years collecting dust. Bite the bullet on a new mixer if you need to and get a good XLR mic is my suggestion.

If recording your voice is the.. one and only use .. usage, a USB mic would work. Otherwise a conventional mic would be more versatile.and be mucho better.

+1 for MicPort Pro. Great pre-amp and AD/DA. Solid headphone output. Supplies 48 vdc phantom power.

Zoom H4N and H6N have the ability to operate as USB mic /audio interface. The built-in mics are very good, and you have the option to plugin any XLR mic into the extra interfaces. Plus you gain a portable recorder, when you are on the road.