Cubase 8AI w/MG10XU

I’m a novice at computer recording. I got a MG10XU and downloaded the Cubase 8AI and watched the basic tutorials, several times. I recorded a guitar track and a vocal track. Guitar track is OK for first test. Vocal track cuts in and out. I tried different channels on the MG10XU with the same results. I have to be very close and very loud for the software to pick up the microphone. I likely have some setting wrong. Any suggestions are appreciated.