So. I have two microphones: MXL990 and MXL 991 with XLR cables for each. I've never recorded before but I'd like to try my hand at it.

What other pieces of hardware do I need to get these two mics to record in PC or Mac programs like Garageband? The mics are both 48V phantom powered btw.

Do i need some sort of interface, mixer, etc?

I'd reccommend getting a Firewire interface.
Personally I use the TC Impact twin.
It has everything you need and is a good platform to expand upon later.
You could also look at some usb interfaces, but you're going to deal with the limits of the usb port if you ever want to expand.

Thanks, but I have a PC and a Macbook air, and neither one of them have firewire ports :/
I'm looking at something like the Behringer XENYX series, but I don't even know if it has phantom power for the condenser mic. Also, there are so many components on the mixer...I'd rather do all the FX on the guitar amp and inside the software.
Are USB interfaces a whole lot worse than firewire?

Most usb interfaces are limited to only recording 2 tracks. One track left, one right.
That might be perfectly fine for those who only record one track at a time, but if you were to ever expand your setup or record a drum kit, you would need to go out and spend a bunch more.

I would stay away from the Xenyx stuff. The reliability and QC are hit or miss. And the preamps and EQ don't sound too good.
Instead, I would look at an M-Audio Fast Track Pro. (usb)
That should have you covered.

hmm thanks. all i need are 2 mic inputs and 1 guitar input, maybe 2.
what about alesis gear, any idea how good/bad they are? my budget isn't enormous after i just bought a new amp

This post was edited by rko_evolution on Jul 1 2012 08:30pm

The M-Audio is a good one to start with.
For mixer/Eq, aim for a Lexicon.

Even their "low budget" stuff have a decent quality.

sounds good, thanks. i think i'm gonna go with the m-audio fast track
going to tackle guitar center this weekend and play around with their mixers