Mic Booster

[petemoore]

Im tryin to think of a way to boost the input [mic into computer] so I can record at lower levels and have the meter up [Im using a recording program].
 If up the volume and the trim in the console of the program and use lower levels, it doesn;t seem to sound as good..the amp still sounds good but I think having to nearly peg the mixer volumes impairs the recording quality.
 Any recommendations for a simple mic booster...I tried a micro amp between the mic and the puter, but the results there were even worse...
 I know little about usin a puter to record [just started] any suggestion s...

[Mike Burgundy]

A good mic preamp is almost as important as a good microphone. There are many ways to go with this, some complicated, some less so, some great, some adequate.
For a simple, effective, low noise pre, try this:
http://sound.westhost.com/project13.htm
A well-designed dual-opamp will do fine as well, just have a look at mic inputs on commercial gear (rane website, f'rinstance)
(just an example of what you're getting into if you want the really good (studio) stuff, and this is a simple one:
http://www.gyraf.dk/gy_pd/g9/g9_sch.gif )

[Ge_Whiz]

Dynamic and condenser mics have different pre-amp requirements, so find a circuit specific to the type of mic that you're using.

[Gus]

Check recording.org look in tech talk and als group DIY


Gus

[petemoore]

I'ts a dynamic mic witha coil. An EV757...very good IMO.  
 It's very rich and clear sounding, just need a little touch more oomph to get the meters up, so I can record at t lower volume and have good resolution/response ftom the digital recorder [which works best when the meters are as close to red without touching the red...]

[Ge_Whiz]

I think I can dig out a circuit. Two transistor (minimal parts to keep it clean), common-base front end (for good impedance match) and a couple of quiet transistors such as BC550s to keep the noise right down. I'll have a look for it.

[petemoore]

Thanks...today is 'hookup the playback amp' day for me...those pesky little puter 1/8''jacks...must have been a marketting thing putting such flimsy connections on the backs of puters liek they' do.  
 I'm sure there are much sturdier and more reliable ways to make connections...trendy...make a nice powerful [something or other] then find the worst connectors available and make it nearly impossible to improve on them...lol

[Johan]

If you can find one, SSM2017 is an 8 pin IC that makes a great mic preamp with just one pot connected to set the gain...see here http://wwww.ges.cz/sheet/s/ssm2017.pdf

Johan

[Mike Burgundy]

unfortunately, it's discontinued tho'