So I bought a microphone today...

[Gopherbassist]

...And I forgot to get an XLR cable to go with it. D'oh.

I've been looking at microphones for about a week now and today I bought an AKG condenser mic. When looking I'd mostly gotten to handle cheaper offerings, and saw that most had a cable included. I bought one in the $100 range, and didn't think about the fact that something a step above entry level probably assumes you've got a cable already or are willing to spend a little extra to get one.

So, since I'm not going to be going to any music shops in the next week or so, I figure I have time to get opinions on XLR cables. What brands do you guys recommend? What should I avoid?
I'll mostly be recording vocals, if that makes a difference.

 

[beans-on-toast]

You don't have to go nuts with an expensive product, buy a good cable with Neutrik connectors. Here is one example: Pro Co EXM-20 Excellines Microphone Cable - 20'.

 

[RustyAxe]

Just about any major brand will do ... but steer clear of those unbranded bargain cables at GC.

 

[seamonkey]

Just checking that you have phantom power on your interface also.

 

[beans-on-toast]

Forgot to say, enjoy your new mic. A condenser is a nice way to go for vocals.

 

[Gopherbassist]

Just checking that you have phantom power on your interface also.

Yeah it does, I got a Focusrite Scarlett Solo 2nd Gen, it's got phantom power with a little backlit switch so you know when it's on.

 

[ofajen]

ProCo is a good choice. I happen to make mine with Gotham cable and Switchcraft plugs.

Otto

 

[seamonkey]

Focusrite has 4 great free plugins this month for current customers. You have to jump through hoops to get them but they are well worth it.
Plugin Collective | Focusrite

 

[rudy4444]

Which AKG? If you're doing vocals you absolutely need a pop filter (both to eliminate plosives and protect the delicate element inside your mic from damage). A floating suspension mount is another necessity to isolate the mic body from noise transferred from the stand to the mic, especially if your mic is a large diaphragm condenser. If your mic is a small diaphragm like a AKG P-70 then the suspension mount isn't strictly necessary.

 

[zontar]

...And I forgot to get an XLR cable to go with it. D'oh.

Well if you already had some, it wouldn't have mattered (Hmm--then again I have two mics & two cables--I think I should get a spare...)

 

[Gopherbassist]

Focusrite has 4 great free plugins this month for current customers. You have to jump through hoops to get them but they are well worth it.
Plugin Collective | Focusrite

Yeah, I got all of those as well as the standard ones they offer. I'm having a hell of a time getting either of the DAWs that came with it to record. One I get nothing back on the monitor, the other is distorted and heavily artifacted. I think I need to fiddle with settings on my computer, or it's just not powerful enough.