Hermanmelville2003 wrote: >the old mics I had were very simple consumer models with basic 1/4 inch connectors -attached- ...radio shack >models,basically. being new to all of this, I had no idea about XLR connections. Depending on the quality of recording you are going for, it is definitely worth investing as much as you can into a couple of decent mics+preamp. >Mic preamps I understand a little better. However, what kind of connection is coming out of the other end of the preamp: >xlr in, presumably rca out? Usually XLR and Jack plugs - you may need to get some adapter cables to connect to your AD >On the behringersite, I came across this mic preamp : http://www.behringer.com/02_products/prodindex.cfm?id=MIC100&lang=eng >the price of which makes me a little happier, considering it doesn't look all that bad. >Looking at the rear view, there seems to be an xlr in, and dual (stereo?) rca out... and >this preamp is how you adjust the input levels of the mic to maximise fidelity >etcetera...right? While Behringer comes in for a fair bit of criticism, I have to honestly say there stuff is buy and large excellent value for money. Yes you adjust the mic level with the preamp knob. I would advise you to get the best mics you can for whatever money you can afford, and maybe one of these mini mixers. A 100-200 Euro mic will sound so much better than your radio shack ones, you may never look back Kind regards Mark Cahill