SM-57 recording volume

[Stephanos]

Hey guys,

I tried recording my archtop acoustically (and my classical for that matter) using a Shure SM 57 mic, through a Tascam US 122 usb interface and into the PC (Audacity). The recorded volume was very low though. Do I need a pre-amp or something for recording acoustically? No problems recording an amp since it can get loud. Advice appreciated.

[Philco]

Sm57 is a Cardioid Dynamic Microphone and you will probably need a Microphone Preamp to bring the signal up. I don't know the specs of your Tascam interface but it may not have a pre amp on board.

SM57 is quite the work horse. Vocals, drums and very loud guitar amps are all serviced by this industry standard. Not usually known as an acoustic recording microphone it would still probably do quite a good job of it, given the correct pre amp.

[fep]

My first suspect wouldn't be the sm57, I've recorded with those without any problem straight into the computer.

The Tascam US 122 usb interface settings is where I'd start. It should have something like a control panel or a mixer that you can open and then adjust the input levels.

I just googled Tascam forums and found this:

TASCAM Forums Member Supported

Post the question there, those folks should be able to give you very specific answers to your question.

[cosmic gumbo]

The unit has no pre-amp for xlr connection. Get one of these adapters and you can run it line level into a 1/4 input. Or use a pre-amp.