What does it take to make a microphone work with a computer?
If you’re talking about a microphone of the type that works with a sound system etc, then you’ll just need an adapter. You can buy one at most electronics stores etc. If you’re looking to purchase a microphone for your computer, then you can buy high quality microphones at almost any computer store that won’t need an adapter. As for the software to run them, its all a matter of what you want to do with it. Windows has basic software that works well to record your voice, but if you want higher quality of you singing etc then you’ll need some better software. Your local computer store should be able to recommend some, or check out cnet.com for some good software reviews.
And making sure that it is properly set up in the control panel. The microphone is usually plugged in next to your speaker jack There is probably a graphic that suggests a microphone; otherwise check your manual. Open your Sounds and Audio Devices control panel, and look at the Audio and Voice tabs. Make sure the recording dropdowns have your sound hardware properly selected. Click on the Volume button and make sure the input isn’t muted. Then on the Voice tab click on Test Hardware and run the wizard. To test it further, or to record through the mike, go to Start > All Programs > Accessories > Entertainment > Sound Recorder and try a recording.
