Depends on your soundcard, I know some Creative cards will cut it automatically, tohugh if your cards not up to the job, things get a little complicated.

I have the Soundblaster Audigy 2 ZS PLatinum soundcard (I just bought it and im satisfied, but if i were to go back id buy the external unit because my internal is putting out some noise), it doesnt have xlr in or anything. Just go to any local music store and ask for a mic cable. Check it out it should look like the one twirler posted. I have a cheapo dynamic mic, and it sounds "ok". The Sm 58 really is worth the $$.

Now here comes my question.

Can anyone recommend any mic preamps, preferabbly tube? Because i believe it would improve the sound a whole lot... right? I just have to mic cable going straight to my audio in right now.

^^^ ART preamps...

But anyway, if you are using a condenser mic, then you need to get a pre amp. The audigy is an ALRIGHT soundcard, it will get the job done, but there are plenty others that will get a better job done for a few dollars more such as the Delta's. A recommended extra would be a compressor. Although a lot of recording software comes with compressors, TRUST, the hardware sounds MUCHHH better. After you have the equipment squared away... the rest is mic techniques and how you mix it down.. and all that depends on what kind ofmusic you are recording

thanks vsop, thats some good advice. Ive never heard of a deltas, ill look uinto it. hopefully i can sell my soundcard if i want to...

You should be able to sell it off quick. Its a great soundcard for gamers.