[linux-audio-user] Using a Shure sm57 mic w/ low end soundcard

[Paul Berry]

Hello all:

I am looking for advice on using a Shure sm57 microphone directly into the mic 
input of a Creative sbawe64 gold soundcard. I am using an impedance matching 
XLR to 1/8" adapter and I have raised the "capture" level in the mixer.

To record anything (say using arecord) I have to crank up the mic-in level to 
full and the result is that I get a lot of hiss and the signal is still 
pretty quiet.

Do I need an external preamplifier to use the sm57? If so where can I go to 
find one or schematics to build one? 

Or is there a simpler way?

Thank you for any suggestions,
Paul