Before you try to set up a microphone, you must select a microphone that will be able to support of all your needs. If you are looking to record vocals, use brands such as Shure, Behringer or the Marshall MXL series. Though Neumann and AKG microphones may work well for recording instruments, they will do very little to filter out excess noise when recording vocals. Other brands of microphones such as Audio Technica, Rode and Shure instrument microphones will aid in filtering out background noise when recording acoustic instruments such as lead bass or guitar. Microphones rarely use AC adapters; however, you must select either a phantom-powered microphone, which will run off power from the mixing board, or a USB-powered microphone, which will run off computer power.
In order to have a good microphone setup, you must have the proper recording conditions. Empty rooms, open windows or background noise will all bleed through your recordings and cause excess echo from the walls. Soundproof foam, which can be placed on the walls, ceilings, and even floors of a room, controls and absorbs excess sound. Soundproof grids and panels can be purchased at music stores or online for usually under $100, depending on how many panels you want.
When attempting to achieve crystal-clear recordings, the microphone must be placed in the proper location. If you are in a small recording area such as a closet or bathroom, the microphone must be placed away from the wall. If the microphone is allowed to rest against the wall, the recording will sound dull and compressed. When recording an instrument, never record in a small area if you wish to achieve the instrument sound in full. Instruments sound better when recorded in the middle of a soundproofed room than in a corner.
When recording vocals you should always place the microphone at least 4 - 5 inches away from your mouth. Though most singers place the microphone directly on their lips when recording live, excess breath and moisture will ruin a studio recording. Another tip when recording vocals is to speak into the side or over the top of the microphone and never directly into the center. The side of the microphone is often the most sensitive spot and therefore allows you to get a much crisper recording.