PC Recording

Roll up your pants 'cuz we're going knee deep into the world of PC recording gear with this tutorial on deciding what you need, what it does, what to look for, and most inportantly, all that the world of recording has to offer.

Mind you i still have a lot to learn, as this is only to serve those who are fresh out of the gate looking to cut their first demo. 

Microphones
The type of microphone you use is a lot more important than most people think.  It's ability to transfer the sound that comes from your throat or out of your amp is crucial to getting a quality recording.  Each microphone has it's own sonic fingerprint which is determined by the size of it's diaphragm/coil, pickup pattern, overall design, etc.  This is what makes choosing the right mic for the job so important.

Small Diaphragm Dynamic
(ex. Shure SM57, Shure SM58)
vocals/snare/kick/hi-hat/amplifiers
Rugged, good response to louder sound sources

SM57

SM58

Large Diaphragm Dynamic
(ex. Sennheiser MD421, Shure SM7)
toms, kick,amplifiers
Similar to small diaphargm dynamics with less distortion caused by loud, low frequency sound sources, but with limited high frequency response

MD421

Small Diaphragm Condenser
(ex. AKG C 1000, Oktava MC012)
drum overheads/cymbals/stringed acoustics
Excellent high frequency response but fragile

Pair of AKG C 100

Large Diaphragm Condenser
(ex. Studio Projects C1, AKG C 3000 B)
vocals/horns/acoustics
Warm and sensitive, vocal mic of choice for many

Pro sound at an affordable price

Recommendation
Most importantly, if you like the way it sounds, USE IT.  Remember there are no rules, but keep in mind that extremely loud sound sources (i.e raging amplifiers), can damage more sensitive mics such as a condenser, so be careful.

In my opinion the most versatile microphone to start out with is the Shure SM57.  Can be used for amplifiers, drums, and numerous other applications including vocals.

If you want to purchase a microphone specifically for vocals, I would suggest the Studio Projects C1 simply for it's "more bang for your buck" factor of 10.  Or you could bypass the C1 all together and upgrade to the Studio projects C3, which gives you the ability to switch between multiple pickup patterns, giving you more control over the sound.

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