Microphone is not working, this is the second one purchased so I believe it is something that is not set up w/in my system. I have sound from other applications, so I don't think it's the sound card. There was no software with it and everyone tells me it should just plug in and work. I've gone into the sound recorder and tried that but no sound would record or play. I've gone into the volume control and was told to check mute, I've actually tried it both ways but neither way works. Under the microphone column, the balance button is grayed out so I can't access it. Could this possibly be the problem. Also, under the multimedia properties in the control panel, under recording, I'm unable to select any advanced options, they're also grayed out.

If "under the multimedia properties in the control panel, under recording" you have selected "(Use any available device)", then "Adavanced" button will be greyed out. From drop down menu pick up your sound card, and then "Adavanced" button will be available.

One problem with microphones that I have run into, is that some audio cards (adapters) are built to use powered mikes. They have a stereo jack and one of the connections supplies power to the mike. A non-powered mike with a mono plug will not work with these adapaters. Hopefully your sound card documentation will tell you if this is the problem.