You will likely need an interface device and/or something to provide power to the microphone. A simple XLR->USB cable will not work on it's own as it cannot provide enough power to the mic. Most XLR/USB interfaces will have the power switch you'll want/need for it to work correctly.
We personally use the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2. It supports two XLR inputs (for when we finally get a 2nd mic), and it has a headphone jack (though you'll likely need a for live monitor so you can hear your mic input without the 0.5 second delay a computer would create. If two inputs is one too many, there's also the Focusrite Scarlett Solo Compact. There are other interfaces out there, some even cheaper. You'll need to dig around.
While it may not seem like the biggest increase in quality an XLR mic does provide cleaner and less "tinny" sound overall. The reason USB mics are popular is the price point for entry is reasonable for most people because it's "buy one microphone of above average quality at $50-$100, you plug in and go". XLR's price point is higher because you'll need AT LEAST the microphone, XLR cables and the interface. If you can get started in XLR for under $100, congrats for finding good sales or (likely) sub-par equipment.
I personally love having XLR. It's expensive to be sure, but the quality of audio is clean and great. Not that you can't also get that out of a solid USB, but there's going to be ceiling and you'll need to jump in to XLR at some point if you want better audio quality.
At least that's how I feel.
The focusrite scarlett solo sounds perfect for your budget. It's $99. I've been using it over a year and love it so far. Might upgrade to the 2i2 in the future. But this is totally fine for my needs. Here's a link to amazon if you wanna take a look at the product. http://www.amazon.com/Focusrite-Scarlett-Solo-Compact-Interface/dp/B00MTXU2DG?ie=UTF8&keywords=scarlett%20solo&qid=1460325582&ref_=sr_1_1&sr=8-1
Hello friend,
Good news is that XLR mics are generally better than USB mics. however, in order to use one you will need some sort of input into your computer. You can use a USB microphone preamp like the Blue Icicle ($31), a USB mixing board like the Behringer Xenyx 502USB ($60), or a USB tube preamp like the Scarlett ($100). However, each one of these uses a USB output to your computer.
If you CAN'T use a USB at all, then you will have to go through the soundcard on your PC. If you don't have a good sound card then you might want to get one for anywhere from $30 - $50. If that is the case, I suggest getting the Xenyx 502 without USB and the Creative 5.1. Together it will cost you about $85, but will allow you to use the Line in directly to your motherboard.
Now, let's talk mics. You will want an XLR mic. Depending on what option of input you went with, I suggest the:
AT2020 - $99
ATR2500 - $67
MXL 770 - $88
MXL 990 - $96
Samson C01 - $80
Don't forget a Pop filter ($6)
Okay so depending on how you do this here is what you do:
XLR to USB - Plug your XLR mic into the board/preamp and then the USB into your computer.
XLR no USB - Plug the XLR mix into the board/preamp. Use the Line Out of the board/preamp into the Line In on your sound card. You will need a 1/4 to 3.5mm adapter as well to plug into your card.
Hope this helps and let me know if you have any other questions!
::SeaOtterGamer
P.S. - Yes, I know you can get a headset (or mic) that uses a 3.5mm jack and plug it directly into your computer or soundcard. You will get better sound and more capabilities using an XLR setup. Plus, if you use a board like I do, you can adjust your settings on your desk and EQ before recording. It also looks super fancy.