Static in audio recording

You guys have probably answered this a hundred times already, but I guess I never paid attention cause I'm just a midi gal. But today I actually tried recording some vocals for a song. Yeah, scary thing. Anyway, on some of the tracks I'm getting static now and then. Doesn't seem to be clipping and the internet's turned off on my c/w computer. I'm using an N/D767 mic and an amp of my son's. The weirdest thing is that it only does it now and then. Anyway, any ideas?

Thanks Bob. First of all--how I have the signal routed? I'm not sure I know what you mean. Sorry. I'm really new at this! But if you can be more specific, I'll try to oblige.

I was just sitting here with the music off and realized my computer makes noises now and then. Could it have picked that up?

And lastly, I can send you an email of the clip--you mean an mp3?

post it on soundclick if you want and we'll both take a listen.

as far as routing, he means tell us how you have everything plugged into everything else. what do you have things plugged into. you have the mic plugged into the amp, into which jack? and you have the amp plugged into your soundcard? from what output jack? details of things like that is what he's asking for.

also - what is the make and model of this amp?

ElectroVoice. EV. Dynamic, so there's no problem there with lack of phantom power.

The static may be coming from the Speaker out connection to your sound card. That amp does not have a Line-Level direct output. Even at low levels, the speaker output is much too strong, even if your meters don't reflect it, and is more than capable of destroying your sound card.
Stop right now!!!
I would highly recomment getting a Behringer Xenyx802 or comperable mixer. These are inexpensive, and suited to what you want to do there.

Glad I caught you in time.
I don't know which is more sickening, the smell of burning electronics, or the realization of what you just did.
The headphone out should be ok, and much safer. It will do, just keep an eye on your levels.
There are other considerations, like impedance and other technical stuff that make the amp less than ideal for your mic.
For now, it will probably be ok, but if you can swing $60 for a mixer, it will be much better for your mic and overall sound quality, as well as the safety of your hardware.

No, don't worry about sending the MP3. I'll wait for the Soundclick debut.
That's not fair. I AM the husband with all the expensive hobbies (I think those two words are synonymous).
Although, Donna's books add up pretty quick.
Enjoy your new toy!

Janet that's scary. Speaker out to soundcard in...that would cause static for sure. You are fortunate the static wasn't the inputs of the soundcard frying. Good to see you're on the road to recovery.

I bet you can sing, anyone who plays the piano as great as you can knows how to make the tones.

Don't be scared, I sound like my next door neighbors whining dog that keeps me up at night why I am trying to sleep. Hmmmm, I wonder if that's why I keep thinking of starting a band and calling it "Dogfood"........ Who knows, your voice is another instrument and I'm sure you have a great one!

Keep on keepin' on!

I know what you mean Janet. I've always been harsh with myself about my voice. But as I am getting older, I seem to accept it more LOL. Also, there is so much you can do now with vocals you can sound like whoever you want! I'm hoping to get a voice/pitch correction program someday too! Just kidding (not about the software), I like to keep it as natural sounding as possible, but I've used a bit of compression and reverb. Also, when I use PowerTracks they have TC Helcion harmonies. So even though it's really following your voice, it sounds different. You can select voive gender and everything. The male voices on the programs are definitely better. The female voices sound like the chipmunks for some reason! The other thing I've done is record two tracks of my voice (do a straight copy of the track if you want). It will make your vocals stronger/fuller as well. Pan one left and one right. I'm sure there are lots of tips out there.

Sing away!

Nutty

Annette--thanks for the ideas!

Bob--that's a good one!