[rhodesp04]

i guess i'll drop some knowledge on you because nobody else seems to want to...

a couple things:

1. you need to learn about "signal flow" do some searches on the internet and this will teach you how to get your recording from start (microphone) to finish (in the computer) most signal flows look something like this:

microphone -> preamplifier -> audio interface -> computer

many audio interfaces come with preamplifiers on them so you could just plug your microphone into that and record it nice and simple.

2. to your question about the "phantom power"...that is term used for a 48volt power needed to run most if not all "condensor" microphones. traditionally condensor microphones are used in situations that require a more detailed recording like vocals (they're more often more sensitive than the other type of microphones called "dynamic" microphones often used for things like electric guitar recordings that may be too loud and damage a sensitive condenser)

so when you make your audio interface purchase you need to make sure that it has "phantom power" if your microphone requires it. it is usually a clearly labeled button that you can simply turn on/off because it is a very common need.

unless you want to risk making blind purchases i'd try to get some experience before i made any purchases if not you'll have to buy more and more to get the sound that you want. i had a similar problem. at one time i had a lot of studio experience but never knew about how things worked so when i wanted to make a home setup i was clueless and expected "big studio" results with not knowing how and what equipment was necessary.