A condenser microphone is one of the best microphone types that is being used in professional recording studios. But a lot of people use condenser microphones as their home studio mic for YouTube, podcasts or streaming. So connecting a condenser microphone directly to the PC or laptop is a bit crucial part.
So, in this post, we will show you the best way to connect the condenser mic to the computer. We have tested many methods to connect the condenser mic to the computer. In this article, we will share our experience with you and give you the best solution for connecting the condenser mic to the computer in the easiest way possible.
What do you need to get started?
Along with your device and a condenser microphone, you need an XLR cable and an audio interface to connect your microphone to your PC or laptop. So, before we start let’s talk about some of the basics first.
What is an XLR cable?
XLR cables are a very common 3 pin cable for audio production. A lot of professional audio engineers use them for their recording, mixing, and mastering processes. XLR cables are also used by many musicians, actors, and other people who use microphones.
The XLR connectors are quite durable and resistant to damage. They can last for a long time. This is because they are made of tough material and are well-engineered. You can use these cables for many years without worrying about the durability of your XLR connections.
READ: 10 Best Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone
What is a condenser microphone & how does it work?
A condenser microphone is a microphone that collects sound from the air like an electrical signal. These are different from dynamic microphones, which collect sound waves from a source (or person speaking) and then convert the sound into an electronic signal.
The difference between these two types of microphones is that condenser microphones record the sound that is actually collected by the microphone (not necessarily coming from the subject speaking).
A condenser microphone usually consists of a diaphragm that is attached to a cylindrical magnet. Sound waves entering the microphone create a varying magnetic field around the magnet, which moves a diaphragm back and forth in response to the changing magnetic field. This movement is translated into an electrical signal using a coil and electronics inside the microphone.
Condenser microphones are used for various purposes, including recording vocals, creating sound effects, and making recordings for radio stations. They are typically more sensitive than dynamic microphones, and as such, they can be difficult to set up.
Audio interface?
An audio interface is a device that lets you control multiple sound sources at once by connecting them to it using a single set of inputs and outputs. The audio interface is a necessary accessory when it comes to recording music or capturing live events.
There are many ways to use audio interfaces but it is very easy to get confused about which one to buy. We would like to guide you through the whole process of selecting the best audio interface for your needs.
You will get an understanding of what audio interfaces are there in the market, their advantages, disadvantages and how to choose one. You will also know what you should look for in an audio interface before you go for buying an audio interface.
READ: The Best Condenser Microphones Under $500
Connecting the condenser microphone to the computer
Now let’s connect our condenser microphone to our computer. These are a few simple steps to follow.
1. XLR Cable to Microphone
Connect the male side of the XLR cable to your microphone. And make sure you’ve connected it securely and tightly. A lot of XLR cables comes with a clamp, when you’ll push it into the microphone, you’ll hear a “Click”. So, make sure it’s connected properly.
2. Microphone and XLR Cable to Audio Interface
Next up, take the other side of the XLR cable or female side and plug it into the audio interface. The audio interface might not sound “Click” when you plug an XLR cable into it. It will be a simple attachment. When your audio interface recognizes it. You’re good to go.
3. Connecting Audio Interface to computer
Now, we have a microphone plugged into the XLR and XLR into the audio interface. It’s time to connect the audio interface to our computer/laptop. The audio interface can be Thunderbolt, USB 2.0, USB 3.0, USB C or Firewire etc…
It’s likely that your audio interface has USB 2.0 or 3.0, just plug one side of the wire to the audio interface and another side of the wire to your PC / Laptop. Done!!
4. Phantom Power
Next up your need to turn on phantom power to get good loud signals. Because condenser microphones work amazingly with phantom power. Most of the condenser microphones require phantom power desperately.
5. Configure Microphone and adjust Levels
Now, You’ve connected the XLR cable to your condenser microphone. And connected the microphone and XLR to your audio interface. Finally, the audio interface to your device and engage the 48V of phantom power. So you can configure all your audio settings and levels.
On most of the audio interfaces, you’ll see input gain knobs where you can control the gain of your condenser microphone. So adjust it until you get good results + make sure your audio is not clipping and if you’re getting noise in the audio, decrease the gain until you’re getting more audio and less noise. Because you can remove noise in the post-processing.
Conclusion | How To Connect A Condenser Mic to a Computer
In this post, we covered everything you need to know about How To Connect A Condenser Mic to a Computer in simple steps. So if you’ve any questions you can post that in the comments section. If you wanna read some of our other articles on microphone reviews and buying guides. You can check the links below.