Is a condenser mic the best option for vocals? I will be running the mic directly into my computer thru line in. Will that diminish most of the quality? I also saw a Nady SP33 dynamic mic for 10 bucks, beings im running straight into the computer would it make a huge difference?

That depends on a couple of things.

#1, Do you have a preamp that supplies phantom power? If not, you cannot use a condensor mic unless it's got built-in power in the form of a battery or something similar.

#2, Will the singer be recording in a noisy room? If so, a condensor is a BAD idea since it will pickup more stuff than you even realize is present in the room. Any noise from the computer, fans, lighting noises, noises from other rooms etc.. Condensor mics are VERY sensative and "hear" almost everything.

#3, Is the singer good at controlling their levels physically? In other words, does the singer know when to back away from the mic and when to get closer?

#4, Condensor mics sound best in general with the singer anywhere from 6 inches to 12 inches or more away from the mic.

As for dynamic mics, if your singer is a screamer, then a dynamic might be a better choice. They handle higher SPLs (sound pressure levels) and aren't so delicate in handling as condensor mics.

You get what you pay for and a $10.00 mic is generally speaking a pretty crappy mic. Also, keep in mind dynamics are better suited where handling noise is a problem such as live situations.

im no mic expert but i hear a shure sm-58 is a decent mic.

does your computer have the 3 pin mic connection or the 1/4 " input?
this is what i recommend...
get and use a shure SM57 into a D.I. if your computer is of the guitar cord type. you will get a lot of vocal gain before feedback and it is tuned for vocals and rejects background noise.
AN sm58 would be your best choice but it should be used in a very quiet room. It has a great vocal response .
as for the condenser mic. .... these are used mostly for things that have high freq's , like cymbals and hi-hats etc....not really that great for vocals unless your singer has some real good control and has had vocal lessons.








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A $10 condenser will give you a headache.

The type of mic to use really depends on your source. Some people just do not sound good through a condenser no matter how great of a singer they are.
If the situation is live hands down the best option is a Shure Beta SM58. This is proven and used with most professional acts. If you find that a condenser works for your vocals then I recommend a Shure SM87 vocal mic or Audio Technica equivalent. These are very fairly priced and can handle high SPL (Sound Pressure levels.)