Changes

At this range, the options widen quite considerably.

At this range, the options widen quite considerably.

If you want to stick with USB, look into the '''Audio-Technica AT2020 USBi''' (make sure you get the "USBi" version, as the basic AT2020 doesn't have a USB plug!) - it's quite pricy, but plugs directly into your laptop via USB, so no need for any extra hardware.

If you want to stick with USB, look into the '''Audio-Technica AT2020 USBi''' (make sure you get the "USBi" version, as the basic AT2020 doesn't have a USB plug!) or the '''Rode NT-USB'''- they're quite pricy, but plug directly into your laptop via USB, so no need for any extra hardware.

You could also get a '''Rode NT1-A''' or a '''Shure SM58''', but these are ''XLR mics'' and will need an interface to be used, so will drive up the price quite a bit. If you want to get one of these, we'd recommend the NT1-A if all you'll be using it for is vocals, or the SM58 if you want a more flexible piece of kit. If you get the NT1-A "vocal recording pack", it'll come with a shock mount (to further reduce handling noise), which is useful. Remember though, you'll also need a stand and an interface, so don't go buying just a mic as it'll be a bit useless.

You could also get a '''Rode NT1-A''' or a '''Shure SM58''', but these are ''XLR mics'' and will need an interface to be used, so will drive up the price quite a bit. If you want to get one of these, we'd recommend the NT1-A if all you'll be using it for is vocals, or the SM58 if you want a more flexible piece of kit. If you get the NT1-A "vocal recording pack", it'll come with a shock mount (to further reduce handling noise), which is useful. Remember though, you'll also need a stand and an interface, so don't go buying just a mic as it'll be a bit useless.