To record streaming audio on your computer you will need a microphone. Mikes come in all prices and quality. We will explore the different types of mikes and the pros and cons of each type. Your needs should always decide what type of microphone to purchase.

The microphone that came with your computer: Many computers come with a microphone in the accessories that come with it. This mike may be ok to start with but it probably will not be professional quality but should be ok to start out with depending on what your needs are.

Gaming mike: A gaming mike is as near as a trip to your local department or computer superstore. These microphones usually come with as a set of headphones with the microphone built in. These mikes are usually a step up from the mike that came with your computer. Some of these mikes are quite good.

Dynamic: A dynamic mike is the type of mike you might see your favorite rock star throwing around while performing. These mikes will take a lot more volume than other kinds and are good if you are recording loud electric instruments. One thing to watch out for is most dynamic mikes plug in with a xlr connecter which means you may need a professional sound card to use this type of mike.

Condenser: Condenser microphones are without question the best microphones to get professional results. They will pick up a higher range of frequencies than other mikes and in general sound better than the other types of mikes. Not very many years ago the price range of condenser mikes were too high for the average consumer. Today the prices have dropped enough that most anyone serious about recording can afford one. You can purchase a quality condenser microphone for well under a hundred dollars although the prices can go a whole lot higher than that. Condenser mikes require phantom power. This means you will need a microphone preamp with phantom power to use this type of mike.

USB Microphones: USB mikes are the new kid on the block. They plug into your USB port in your computer and therefore require no extra hardware like the other microphones do. Recently true professional USB mikes have come into the picture and are definitely worth investigating.

A trip to your local music store may be time well spent. You can look at each different type of mike and check out the differences in each one. What you are trying to get done and how much you can afford should always decide your needs. Always remembers professional results take professional equipment.