Connect an audio interface to your computer. The type of connection varies according to the make and model of the interface, but is typically a USB or Firewire connection. The audio interface converts audio signals into data, which it then transfers to Cubase 5.
Connect the female end of an XLR cable to the bottom of a microphone. Connect the other end of the XLR cable to the "XLR Input" on the front of your audio interface.
Connect a pair of headphones to the "Headphones" jack on the rear of your audio interface. Use a quarter-inch jack adapter if the headphones don't already have a quarter-inch jack plug.
Open Cubase 5.
Click "File" and select "New Audio Track." This opens up a new channel on the Cubase 5 interface. Double-click "Audio 1" box and type in "Vocal 1."
Audition the levels. Sing into the microphone at the peak volume you intend to record at. Observe the Cubase 5 meter section. If the red warning light comes on, the signal is too powerful and will cause distortion. Turn down the "Gain" dial on the audio interface.
Set a tempo. Cubase 5 has a click-track tool. The click-track provides a digital time-reference. If you slip out of time when recording, you'll hear it when using a click. The default tempo for a click-track in Cubase 5 is 120 beats per minute, or BPM. Click the "Metronome" icon and press "Play." As the click-track rolls, sing along. If the click is not the right speed, adjust it up or down by 10 BPM by changing the number in the "Tempo" box. Once you get near your preferred tempo, adjust it by a single beat.
Put on the headphones. Press "Play" and test the level of your voice against the level of the click. If the click is too loud, turn down the "Monitor" dial on the front of your audio interface.
Hit "Record" as soon as you're ready to do a take.