Today, we’re diving into the world of audio gear to help beginners make the best possible connection between an XLR microphone and their computer (PC or Mac). Whether you’re a budding content creator, podcast enthusiast, live streamer, or someone who appreciates excellent sound, this guide is for you.
We’ll explore two things you must consider, two things you should avoid, and three recommended methods for the best result.
Quick Answer: Don’t use an XLR to USB cable or XLR to ⅛” Cable to connect your microphone to your computer. Instead, consider using an inline audio interface, audio interface, analog audio mixer or digital audio mixer while following our setup steps below!
Are you looking to connect an XLR microphone to your computer (Mac or PC)? There are many great reasons that you may want to do this:
- Studio Recording (Garageband, Protools, Ableton, Logic, etc.)
- Video Conferencing (Zoom, Google Chat, FaceTime, Skype, etc.)
- Live Streaming (YouTube, Twitch, Periscope, etc.)
There are 4 different ways that we recommend to connect your XLR mic to your computer (PC or Mac):
- Option 1: Inline Audio Interface
- Option 2: Audio Interface
- Option 3: Analog Audio Mixer
- Option 4: Digital Audio Mixer
If you have a XLR or USB cable or XLR to 1/8″ cable, we don’t recommend these cables.
Option 1: Inline Audio Interface
XLR Microphone > XLR Signal Converter > Computer (PC or Mac)
Let’s begin with one of the simplest ways to connect your XLR microphone to your computer, especially if you’re on a tight budget. The inline audio interface is a compact device that converts the analog signal from your microphone into a digital signal your computer can understand.
How To Use An Inline Audio Interface
- Plug one end of your XLR cable into your microphone and the other end into the XLR input of the converter.
- Connect the converter to your computer using a USB cable.
- Install any necessary drivers or software that come with the converter.
- Turn on 48v Phantom Power (if you’re using a condenser microphone)
- Set your level
Pros:
- Affordable option for beginners.
- Minimal setup and a small form factor.
- Suitable for basic recording and voiceovers.
Cons:
- Limited features and functionality compared to an audio interface or mixer.
- May not provide the best audio quality for professional use.
- May produce noticeable hiss in your recording.
Best Signal Converter To Connect XLR Microphones To Your Computer
- Shure MVX2U – https://currentprice.io/shure_mvx2u
- MXL USB Mic Mate Pro: https://currentprice.io/mic-mate-pro
Option 2: Audio Interface
XLR Microphone > Audio Interface > Computer (PC or Mac)
If you’re serious about audio quality and want more control over your recording setup, an audio interface is the way to go. This device acts as a bridge between your XLR microphone and your computer, offering improved sound quality and additional features.
How To Setup An Audio Interface:
- Connect your XLR microphone to one of the microphone inputs on the audio interface.
- Connect the audio interface to your computer using a USB cable.
- Install any necessary drivers or software.
- Turn on 48v Phantom Power (if you’re using a condenser microphone)
- Set your level
Pros:
- Superior audio quality and low-latency recording.
- Multiple inputs for microphones and instruments.
- Professional-grade features like preamps and audio monitoring.
- Suitable for music production, podcasting, and more.
Cons:
- Generally, a more significant investment compared to a signal converter.
- May be overkill for beginners with basic recording needs.
Best Audio Interfaces To Connect XLR Microphones To Your Computer:
- Scarlett 2i2 (4th Gen) – https://currentprice.io/scarlett_2i2
- Universal Audio Volt 276 – https://currentprice.io/volt276
- Solid State Logic SSL2+ – https://currentprice.io/ssl2_plus
- Elgato Wave XLR – https://currentprice.io/wave_xlr
Option 3: Analog Audio Mixer
XLR Microphone > Analog Audio Mixer > Computer (PC or Mac)
An analog audio mixer is the way to go for those who want more control and flexibility over their audio setup. Mixers allow you to connect multiple microphones and other audio sources while adjusting levels and adding effects in real-time. The processing is done on the audio mixer itself, rather than relying on your computer.
Setting up an audio mixer with your XLR microphone:
- Connect your XLR microphone to one of the microphone inputs on the analog audio mixer.
- Connect the audio mixer to your computer using a USB cable.
- Install any necessary drivers or software.
- Turn on 48v Phantom Power (if you’re using a condenser microphone)
- Configure the mixer settings for your desired audio mix.
- Use the mixer’s controls to adjust levels, EQ, and effects as needed.
Pros:
- Total control over audio mixing and effects.
- Multiple inputs for various audio sources.
- Ideal for live streaming, podcasting, and music production.
Cons:
- May be too complex for beginners.
- Larger and pricier than the other methods.
Best Analog Audio Mixers To Connect XLR Microphones To Your Computer:
- Yamaha MG10XU – https://currentprice.io/mg10xu
- Mackie ProFX6v3 – https://currentprice.io/profx6v3
- Soundcraft Notepad 12FX – https://currentprice.io/notepad12fx
Option 4: Digital Audio Mixer
XLR Microphone > Digital Audio Mixer > Computer (PC or Mac)
Recently, digital audio mixers are becoming more common.
With a digital audio mixer you can have more control over more inputs compared to any of the other options in this video.
They give you an all-in-one recording suite, with the ability to record to SD card or connect to your computer.
Digital audio mixers have more on-board processing to help you sound your best, this can include:
- EQ Settings
- Compressor
- Expander
- DeEsser
- Noise Gate
- Etc.
Setting up a digital audio mixer with your XLR microphone:
- Connect your XLR microphone to one of the microphone inputs on the digital audio mixer.
- Connect the audio mixer to your computer using a USB cable.
- Install any necessary drivers or software.
- Turn on 48v Phantom Power (if you’re using a condenser microphone)
- Configure the mixer settings for your desired audio mix.
- Use the mixer’s controls to adjust levels, EQ, and effects as needed.
Pros:
- Total control over audio mixing and effects.
- Multiple inputs for various audio sources.
- Ideal for live streaming, podcasting, and music production.
Cons:
- May be too complex for beginners.
- Larger and pricier than the other methods.
- Expensive
Best Digital Audio Mixers To Connect XLR Microphones To Your Computer:
- Rode Rodecaster Pro II – https://currentprice.io/rodecaster2
- Rode Rodecaster Duo – https://currentprice.io/rodcaster_duo
- Tascam Mixcast 4 – https://currentprice.io/mixcast4
What To Avoid When Connecting XLR Mics To Computers
Don’t Use XLR To ⅛” (Mic) Jack Cables!
Although this would be the least expensive option, you simply can’t use an XLR to ⅛” cable to connect your XLR microphone directly to the mic input on your computer.
- Incompatible with condenser microphones – These cables don’t provide the 48v of phantom power that is required for condenser microphones to work.
- Not enough power for dynamic microphones – These cables don’t provide enough clean gain to properly power popular dynamic microphones without adding a ton of hiss to your recording.
- Impedance Mismatch – XLR microphones have different impedance characteristics compared to consumer-grade 1/8″ jack inputs. Connecting them directly can result in impedance mismatch issues, leading to distorted or weak audio signals.
- Relies on your computer for the Analogue to Digital conversion. Typically the sound card in your computer won’t do a great job of this.
You won’t get a high-quality signal with this method.
Don’t Use XLR to USB Cables!
While XLR to USB cables might seem like a straightforward solution, they often fall short in terms of audio quality and versatility. There are two main reasons to avoid XLR to USB cables:
- Incompatible with condenser microphones – These cables don’t provide the 48v of phantom power that is required for condenser microphones to work.
- Not enough power for dynamic microphones – These cables don’t provide enough clean gain to properly power popular dynamic microphones without adding a ton of hiss to your recording.
- Low quality, inexpensive analogue to digital converter – Again, this will leave you with a low quality recording.
These cables need more features and controls offered by audio interfaces and mixers. They can introduce electrical noise and latency, negatively impacting your audio recordings.
Now that we’ve covered what NOT to do, let’s show you three great options for connecting your XLR microphone to your computer.
Microphone Type: Condenser vs. Dynamic
What type of microphone do you have? There are two main types of microphones: Condenser and Dynamic. If you read the documentation for your microphone, it will be straightforward to figure out which one you have.
Each type of microphone has its unique characteristics, and understanding this will help you make the right choices for your recording setup.
Condenser Microphones: These are the kind you often find in professional studios and even home recording setups. They have a wide frequency range and a knack for picking up even the tiniest sound details. This means you’ll get clear, super-precise audio with plenty of volume depth. Condenser XLR mics are the go-to for those who have crystal-clear recordings. If you’re using a condenser microphone, you must provide 48v of phantom power to the microphone (more on that later).
Recommended Condenser XLR Microphones For Computers:
- Rode NT1 – https://currentprice.io/rode-nt1-5th
- Neat King Bee II – https://currentprice.io/king_bee_ii
- Audio Technica AT2020 – https://currentprice.io/at2020
- Lewitt LCT 440 Pure – https://currentprice.io/lct440_pure
Dynamic Microphones: You’ve probably seen dynamic XLR mics used at live events, in PA systems, or at karaoke nights. But don’t think they’re just for the stage; they’re not cheap or low-quality by any means.
Recommended Dynamic XLR Microphones For Computers:
- Shure SM7B – https://currentprice.io/shure_sm7b
- Electro-Voice RE-20 – https://currentprice.io/re20-black
- sE Electroncis Dynacaster – https://currentprice.io/dynacaster
- Rode PodMic – https://currentprice.io/rode_podmic
Knowing whether you’ve got a condenser or dynamic mic is the first step to correctly setting up your audio system. No matter which type you’re working with, there are methods and equipment choices that suit your needs, and we’re about to explore those to help you get the best sound when connecting your microphone to your computer.
Related: Condenser vs Dynamic Microphones
Digital To Audio Conversion
Now that you’ve grasped the basic microphone types let’s consider another crucial aspect of connecting your XLR microphone to a computer: digital-to-audio conversion, often abbreviated as DAC.
To make your microphone’s analog signal usable on your computer, you must convert it into a digital format your PC or Mac can understand. This conversion process is crucial for maintaining audio quality in your recordings or live streams.
Depending on the method you choose to connect your XLR microphone to your computer, the quality of this conversion can vary. A high-quality DAC preserves the subtleties in your audio, while a lower-quality one might introduce noise or distortion.
Related: Best XLR Cable For Your Microphone
Mic Stand For XLR Microphones
Unless you bought a complete XLR microphone kit, you will need to buy some type of mic stand for your microphone.
There are two options to consider:
Table mic stands are inexpensive and rugged. They do an excellent job of positioning your microphone. The only downside to using a table stand is that it takes up space on your table.
On the other hand, you can use a microphone boom arm which will give you more flexibility with placement. They are easier to use and don’t take up valuable space on the table in front of you.
Below are some options that we love:
XLR Cables
Next, you will need an XLR cable for your microphone.
Not all XLR cables are created equal.
Although most XLR cables “work”, here are some things to look for:
- Four conductors inside the XLR cable (Star Quad)
- High-Quality Shielding
- Good Amount of Flexibility
- Durable Connectors, preferably black.
If you are looking for more info, you can check out our guide to the best XLR cables for microphones.
Best XLR Cables
- Canare Star Quad (Best Overall)
- Mogami Gold Studio (Most Expensive, Best Shielding)
- Amazon Basics (Least Expensive)
- Hosa Technology Pro (Best Value)
How To Connect XLR Microphone To Computer (PC or Mac)
How To Connect XLR Microphone To Computer
Connect Audio Interface (or mixer) To Computer
Connect audio interface (or mixer) to your computer using a USB cable.
Mount XLR Microphone On Microphone Stand Or Boom Arm
Mount your XLR microphone on a microphone stand or boom arm.
Connect XLR Microphone To Audio Interface (or Mixer)
Connect the XLR microphone to your audio interface or mixer using an XLR cable.
Position The Microphone Correctly
Position the microphone so it’s 2-4″ from your mouth.
Set The Gain/Level On Interface or Mixer
Set your gain on your audio interface so you are between -18dB to -12dB if you’re recording music or a podcast or between -12dB to -6dB if you’re live streaming
Hit Record
Hit Record! This will largely depend on what software you’re using on your computer. You may be live streaming with OBS or zoom, or you might be recording with Garage Band or Audacity.
XLR Mic To Computer Equipment:
- Shure MVX2U: https://currentprice.io/shure_mvx2u
- Focusrite Scarlett 2i2: https://currentprice.io/scarlett_2i2
- Yamaha MG10XU: https://currentprice.io/mg10xu
- Rode Rodecaster Pro 2: https://currentprice.io/rodecaster2
- Neat King Bee II: https://currentprice.io/king_bee_ii
- Shure SM7B: https://currentprice.io/shure_sm7b
- Rode NT1: https://currentprice.io/rode-nt1-5th
- Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro Headphones: https://currentprice.io/beyer_dt_990
- XLR Cable: https://currentprice.io/xlr_cable
- Mic Stand: https://currentprice.io/desk_stand
- Rode PSA1+ Boom Arm: http://currentprice.io/psa1_plus
- Quality Acoustic Treatment Panels: http://currentprice.io/soundpanels
XLR To Computer Topics / Chapters
- 0:00 – Introduction
- 0:33 – Price & Specs
- 0:45 – Dynamic vs Condenser Microphone
- 1:45 – Recommended Software: OBS Studio
- 2:20 – Don’t Use XLR to 1/8″ Cable
- 3:35 – Don’t Use XLR to USB Cable
- 4:16 – Option 1: Inline Audio Interface
- 6:33 – Option 2: Audio Interface
- 8:59 – Option 3: Analog Audio Mixer
- 11:15 – Option 4: Digital Audio Mixer
- 13:00 – Summary & Recommendation
- 14:22 – Final Thoughts
Connect XLR Mic to Computer FAQs
Can you connect XLR directly to PC?
Although you can buy an XLR to USB cable, those only work on some types of XLR microphones. We recommend that you use an audio interface or mixer to connect an XLR mic to your computer, for the best results.
How do I use an XLR microphone on my computer?
In order to use an XLR microphone on your computer, you need an audio interface or mixer. This will give you everything that you need to setup your XLR mic with your computer.
How do I connect my XLR condenser mic to my computer?
You can connect your XLR condenser mic to your computer with the help of an audio interface. An interface will give you the +48v of phantom power required to activate your condenser microphone.
Do XLR mics need audio interface?
It’s possible to use an XLR to USB cable, but they only work on some microphones. For best results you should always use an audio interface or mixer.
Can you connect XLR to USB?
XLR to USB adapters work on some microphones, but not all. For best results, you should use an audio interface.
How do I connect my XLR mic to my audio interface?
You connect your XLR mic to your audio interface by plugging one end of an XLR cable into the microphone and the other end into the XLR input on the audio interface.
Can you use XLR on a laptop?
You can use XLR on a laptop with the help of an audio interface or an audio mixer with USB output.
