Now that it appears that voice chat may be becoming a regular thing around here, I want to get a mic too, but as I've said before, I am completely technologically stupid. I'd like to not appear quite so dumb when I go in a store to look for one, so could I get a little help here?

Are there different kinds of mics? What's a good brand? What do I need it to do?

Thanks in advance for your help and wisdom. :)

I just went to Wal-Mart and asked the cashier in the electronics if she could help me choose one. I chose the cheapest one and it is lousy. Someone recommended the head set with the microphone on it.

But just ask someone at the store they will be glad to help you.

You called for a Tech Slut? *LOL*

Okay...you can´t expect HiFi from a cheap 4,95$ headset, but on the other hand, real time voice chatting wouldn´t satisfy the high-end fanatic either. ;)

You might want to take care if a future headset have these features:

- does it fit comfortably? Nothings worser than the headshells can´t be adjusted right to your ears, at least it makes me feeling kinda queasy ;)
- the mic should be adjustable freely, that means that the extension is not made of solid plastic
- a long cord! If you´re not having the plugs on the frontside or the PC sitting on your lap, a short cord is also very uncomfortable. Unfortunately, most cords attached to the headsets are rather short, so you might have to take a look for extension cables.

If possible, record a CD or tape with samples of voices and music, like cutting a bit from a radio station. Check if the sound comes through clearly at different volumes.

If I have to recommend a brand, it would be either Sennheiser, AKG or AudioTechnica, but they are more expensive than Radio Shack offers for sure. You might also to take a look for professional DJ headsets, if you don´t mind the price.

Hope it was a bit of help. Otherwise, wait until I´m coming over. :D

I'd take Wave's word on this one. I don't do Mic's.

I'm thinking about buying a headset for the computer. Maybe I might be able to hear the chat that way.

Thanks for the help guys.
Wave, I might not understand all those features you were explaining so I might need some, uh, *personal* help picking one out OK? ;)

I would like getting a mike that has GOOD GAIN and doesnt SOUND LIKE SHIT!

Can someone recommend a good mike?? (I use a couple VOIP programs and the mike i have is a radio shack piece of crap)