Q:  I have a microphone that came with my computer system. I've checked levels
    and when I record it's distorted in places. It has a small jack. Will it 
    be a problem if I got a "real" mic and an adapter to make the larger plug
    fit the mic outlet on my computer?


A:  You could use basically *any* Mic you want, as long as you run them 
    through a small Audio Mixer. This way, you do not need any adapters. You
    have the additional flexibility of having multiple Mics connected at the 
    same time, with individual trimmings / settings / EQ on each one of them. 

    You can also make adjustments to obtain the best possible 'Signal To Noise
    Ratio' in your Recordings. Audio Mixers are quite inexpensive nowadays. 
    Check Behringer.

    When using a Mixer, you should connect it to the 'Line In' instead of 
    the 'Mic In' of your Sound Card since all Mixers output a *Line* Level.

    Caution should be exercised not to overload your Sound Card's Inputs with
    a very HOT signal that can damage it. Some basic Audio knowledge will come
    in handy when dealing with Electronics / Audio Equipment.  
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