Three simple steps can be taken to ensure that your microphone records quality sound. First, be sure to use a pop filter. Next, check that your input levels aren't "maxed". Finally, don't move your microphone while recording!

Pop filter:

A pop filter can be any thin cloth material that guards your microphone from air movements caused by your speaking. While there are many commerical filters, it's also possible to make an inexpensive, effective filter from nothing more than a wire hanger and a pair of thin pantyhose. Bend / pull the wire hanger upward, and slip the pantyhose over the top. Cut away any excess material and volila - you have an ugly, but very effective pop guard. Feel free to decorate where necessary.

Input Levels:

In addition to purchasing a USB microphone and using a pop filter while you record, you can also ensure that your audio levels are not "topped out." Open up the "Volume Control" panel in your operating system (in Windows, within the bottom-right system tray, usually looks like a speaker) and adjust the "Line In" or "Microphone" level to approximately 85%. This guards against buzzing that some system setups may introduce at high "Line in" gain levels.

Shuffle & Filter Examples

Mic "shuffle" from moving mic:

Mic "pop" both without and with filter - listen carefully for the three puffs without a filter, followed by the three puffs with a filter... there's a huge difference!