what should i do?

[finite elbow]

Hi! I'm trying to record my own music but i have a really big question. I currently record music with my USB microphone (which is a HyperX QuadCast) and i think it has a really good sound quality. I also have an isolated room to record my things and it adds more to the sound quality i would say. But the thing is, I'm not sure if I should upgrade to a microphone that goes through an audio interface, like a MiniFuse or something like that. Do you think that it matters and it would be better for me to buy a microphone for an audio interface? 🤔

[gusty kelp]

You have to remember USB and XLR (the mic with cables and goes into interfaces) does matter, the reason professionals use XLR is because the signal is more cleaner than a usb which reduce interference/noise and XLR are more higher audio quality. But remember this will cost more than a usb, so a usb is a cheaper alternative but it’s def not better or should replace XLR

and also remember the mic (usb or XLR) and what Interface you buy will depends on the quality itself
don’t be too cheap but you don’t need anything super super expansive, keep above at least 90-100$ and under at least 600$ or something so your budget is on you but this is a point I wanna make to help you with your choice 🙂

[finite elbow]

Ohhh, I see. Thank you very much, I'll think about it! 😊

btw, do you think a good option could be the shure sm58?

[gusty kelp]

No this isn’t ideal nor built for recording this is only meant for live performances

[finite elbow]

ohh, okay okay, what would you recommend in a budget between 100 - 180?

[gusty kelp]

Any mic meant for recording on that range is fine tbh, however keep note what TYPE of mic you need aka dynamic vs condenser

• condenser = highly sensitive to capture vocals very upfront and clear - but because of sensitivity background noise is more present if you’re not careful, and more floor noise (buzz) can be present

• Dynamic = not sensitive but more better for louder vocals unlike condenser being too sensitive which can distort but not with dynamic - raw vocals won’t be as crisp compared to condenser but that’s why you need to mix it, can be good against background noise but not 100% it also helps against sibilance better with T’s and S’s

[finite elbow]

ooohh, I see, I knew about this but like, I wasn't paying that much attention to it, but I see why it's important, thank you so so much <3

[gusty kelp]

Haha yes ofc if you need questions about equipment or mixing just ask

[little stratus]

Cosmo is pretty much on point, but if you want a specific microphone recommendation in that price range I'd say the AT2020 is probably your best shot, it is probably the most famous XLR mic under $200, and if you buy a cheap audio interface that does the job like the M-audio M-track solo, you should end up just under that range (most mics don't come with an XLR cable so you'll have to buy that separately)