The puropse of this thread is to help all the newbies with the typical questions they might have... If you are new to mixing and engineering, please read through this thread for answers to the typical questions, and feel free to post your questions in this thread.... Please do not start a new thread until you read this. I know the urge to start a new thread is great, but to try and keep the clutter down, let's try to keep the beginner questions in this thread. This will allow new members to get lots of information in the future.
So, let's start with microphone choices...
If you are in the under $500 price range, and also don't have a proper vocal booth... Then there is 2 choices that you should consider first and foremost:
The Shure SM7
This mic has been used to record countless hits and is a great all purpose studio mic.
or....
The EV RE20
This mic is another great all purpose studio mic, and has also been used on lots of hits.