Whether you record at home, produce music or live stream, connecting a microphone to a computer is a common need. This guide explains how to connect a wireless dynamic microphone system to a laptop or desktop.
Jump to: Signal format | Audio interface | USB mixer | Which to choose
Why you shouldn't plug straight into the computer
Wireless dynamic microphones suit recording and streaming because they offer good noise isolation and freedom of movement. A receiver outputs an analog signal, which a computer must convert to digital. Many computers have a built-in sound card, but connecting through a 6.35 mm (1/4") to 3.5 mm (1/8") TRRS adapter often gives poor sound quality, because dynamic mics send a fairly weak signal and the clarity suffers.
The fix is a standalone audio interface or a USB mixer, which both provide mic and line level inputs, built-in preamps and easy monitoring.
Option 1: Audio interface
An audio interface such as the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 is popular in home studios and supports multitrack recording in a digital audio workstation (DAW) on your computer. It suits professional recording, podcasts and voiceovers. Connect the microphone or its receiver to the interface with the right cable, then connect the interface to your computer by USB or Thunderbolt and record in your DAW.
Option 2: USB mixer
A USB mixer adds hands-on controls such as EQ, panning and built-in effects, and sends a stereo mix to your computer over USB. That makes it handy for live performances and streams. The Phenyx Pro PTX-15, for example, is a portable USB mixer with 4 mic and line inputs, 3-band EQ, 5-band equalizer, 16 DSP effects, headphone and auxiliary jacks, USB audio interface and Bluetooth. Connect each source to the mixer, set your mix, then connect the mixer to your computer. See our PTX-15 PC function guide for the steps.
For advanced multitrack needs, a multitrack USB mixer such as the Tascam Model 12 combines an interface and mixer, at a higher price.
Which should you choose?
An audio interface delivers clean, unprocessed sound across multiple tracks, which is ideal for home recording and music production. A USB mixer is a practical choice for live performances and live streams.
