I cant find the activation code for my lexicon alpha

Take it back to where you purchased it, they will help you.

There is no activation code. You will need software that handles I/O sound device other than the built in audio of the PC. This device is sometimes delivered with either Sonar home edition or CuBase.

Sorry, but the Alpha does NOT have Phantom power which IS required for a condenser mic.

You will either have to get a mic preamp that supplies phantom power or go to a dynamic type mic if you stay with the Lexicon Alppha.

I suspect the problem is with the software setup in your PC. Verify all the options and also verify that the AUDIO system is assigned as stereo and assigned to the Lexicon for both in and out... Also check any "PAN" control settings. There is a possibilty that the Alpha has a dead channel...

Try putting a stereo signal into the 1/4 inch jacks and see if both record... if NOT then take it for repair under warranty... I had a Lexicon Omega that had a problem myself... warranty repair...

Make sure you have NO antivirus/antispyware/antiadware or other resource hogging background programs running while processing the audio. These programs hog resources to the point that the buffering within the audio devices is overrun causing gaps.

Sorry but... Very simply, you CANNOT use a condenser mic with the Alpha since it does not supply the required Phantom power for the mic. You must step up to another interface to use condenser mics. You can use dynamic mics with the Alpha or other audio sources. I use a Roland/Cakewalk UA25E interface with condenser mics and also the Lexicon Omega which does have Phantom power for the mics..

Make sure you have Phantom power turned on on the Lexicon... Oh,oh... it appears that the Alphs may NOT have phantom power which IS a REQUIREMENT for most condenser mics...

The Lexicon Omega does have this but apparently the Aplpha doesn't have it.

That leaves you with the choice of either getting a dynamic mic that doesn't need Phantom, or replacing the Alpha, OR using a preamp ahead of the mic before the Alpha...

Sorry, but those are the only solutions I see for you.

REMEMBER that condenser mics pick up everything and you cannot run them into a PA or they will feedback.

The Lexicon Alpha does NOT have phantom power. The mic input expects a standard mic or a "self-powered" condensor mic. This means that you will neex external phantom power. There are power units available that use 9V batteries for this.

Dan

you can download and install the alpha driver here: http://www.lexiconpro.com/product.php?id=7#downloads

Check for ground loops.

You MIGHT be able to cut the noise by setting the EQ's to clip the highs.