Sennheiser MKH-416 P48 U into computer?
 

Hi everyone,
I was wondering how I could go about getting my MKH-416 hooked up to my computer. I was hoping I could find a "y" connector and hook it to the XLR cable I have and then plug it in somewhere in the back of my tower. I think Audacity would work to record it as far as software goes, correct? Would someone mind letting me know what else I need in order to make this possible, or if it is possible, cosidering the mic is phantom powered? Thanks so much guys,
Blessings,
Tyler.

Not possible without some additional outboard gear. You need something to provide phantom power for the mic such as an external audio interface would provide. If you wanted to use the built-in soundcard and were on a budget, you could get something like a basic desktop mixer such as those by Behringer to provide phantom and give you control over levels and such. For something simple with one or two XLR mic inputs you'd be looking at aboiut $100 or so.

Micport Pro provides a single pre-amp and 24-bit/96kHz A/D on USB

CEntrance, Inc. / Products / MicPort Pro

"MicPort Pro from CEntrance is a 24-bit/96kHz broadcast quality USB mic preamp used by the BBC, CNN, NBC, CBS, ABC, and voiceover professionals. MicPort Pro is your mic-to-computer audio interface, compatible with Windows XP/Vista, Mac OS X 10.4 and above, and LINUX. MicPort Pro features 48V phantom power, a loud headphone output for zero latency monitoring, and aggregation that allows you to record in stereo with two MicPort Pro units. Even test & measurement guys love it with MicPort Pro's SMAART v.6 compatibility."

I think it costs around £100 in the UK. You might get more flexibility/value from an outboard soundcard, depends what you are looking for.

Thanks for your input guys, I will look into your suggestions further.
God bless,
Tyler.

There is also the same type of XLR to USB adapter from MXL for a little less. The model differs from the Centrance with no headphone out...but I was impressed with this little video HowAudio.com Video Tutorials - Mic Mate USB Adapter :: product SPOTLIGHT

We sell them too...you can use your DVinfo 5% discount http://www.dvcreators.net/mxl-mic-mate-xlr-to-usb/

The other guys are right.
You need a Phantom powered device. I recomend buying a good external soundcard..

BUT
If you are on a cheap budget, why not just use your camcorders audio xlr inputs, and a firewire connection to your favorite editing suite and record audio and video on the run.
then just remove the video part and export the audio to your audio editor if you prefer.