Things You'll Need:
- Pro Tools software
- Pro Tools hardware
- Computer
- Microphone
- Microphone cable
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Step 1
Determine whether the end of your microphone cable is XLR or 1/4 inch. Microphones can use one of two different types of cables. It is easy to identify one from the other. Most microphones require an XLR cable. An XLR cable has three prongs on each end. Most professional microphones will require an XLR cable. Some more inexpensive microphones use a 1/4 inch cable. The good news is that on these cheaper microphones, the cable is usually built-in, so you won't have to buy an extra cable. A 1/4 inch cable has no prongs at all, so it is easy to distinguish between an XLR and 1/4 inch cable.
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Step 2
Plug the female end of your microphone cable into your microphone. If your microphone already has a cable attached, you can skip this step, as it's already taken care of.
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Step 3
Plug the male end of your XLR cable into an XLR input on your Pro Tools system. It's easy to find this input. It has three prongs just like your XLR cable. If your cable is a 1/4 inch cable then look for the 1/4 inch input of your Pro Tools system. The 1/4 input is just a circle. It will have no prongs.
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Step 4
Turn on phantom power if you are using a condenser microphone. Push the phantom power switch to the "On" position. Only use phantom power on a condenser microphone. If your microphone is not a condenser, phantom power may damage it. If you are not sure what type of microphone you have, consult your user manual before turning on the phantom power switch. For all non-condenser microphones, set the phantom power switch to "Off." That's it. Your microphone is now connected to Pro Tools.
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Step 5
Play! You now know how to connect your microphone to Pro Tools. Now get ready to record your masterpiece!
