How would I hook up the M-Audio Buddy to my Audiophile 2496 sound card to get the best quality. And also which would be better, The Audio Buddy with the Shure SM58 or the Audio Buddy with the MXL 990?
Well, the buddy has a balanced/unbalanced jack output. But, the 2496 has RCA inputs, which are unbalanced. So, you'll need to get a TS to RCA input cable, or the required adapters. you should be able to get a TS to RCA adapter.
NB: RCA are the red and white hi fi plugs, and TS are (effectively) the same as guitar leads.
For the mics? well, you've got 2 mics, 2 pres and 2 inputs on your sound card, so you can record both at the same time. They're gonna be different for different purposes. the 990 might be better on acoustic guitar or room micing drums, where as the 58 you can chuck in front of a guitar amp, in a kick drums, and it'll sound great (and not break - it can take louder volumes). They're both gonna be good for vocals.
On that topic, however, set them both up at the same spot and recording you singing into both at the same time, and then A/B them in your DAW of choice. See which one fits you voice better.
Well, the buddy has a balanced/unbalanced jack output. But, the
Well, the buddy has a balanced/unbalanced jack output. But, the 2496 has RCA inputs, which are unbalanced. So, you'll need to get a TS to RCA input cable, or the required adapters. you should be able to get a TS to RCA adapter.
NB: RCA are the red and white hi fi plugs, and TS are (effectively) the same as guitar leads.
For the mics? well, you've got 2 mics, 2 pres and 2 inputs on your sound card, so you can record both at the same time. They're gonna be different for different purposes. the 990 might be better on acoustic guitar or room micing drums, where as the 58 you can chuck in front of a guitar amp, in a kick drums, and it'll sound great (and not break - it can take louder volumes). They're both gonna be good for vocals.
On that topic, however, set them both up at the same spot and recording you singing into both at the same time, and then A/B them in your DAW of choice. See which one fits you voice better.
Good luck, and have fun.