iMacs don't work with regular mics?

[SilentCrs]

Just purchased a new iMac 24" (3 ghz, 1 TB HD, 4 GB RAM, etc). By and large it's worked great, but I noticed one problem: plugging in my headset in Windows doesn't work.

I've done a Google search and apparently older Mac Pros, Macbook Pros, etc. had this problem. They suggested using a powered mic or a USB mic (bleh). Is this still the case?

 

[Jack Flash]

Just purchased a new iMac 24" (3 ghz, 1 TB HD, 4 GB RAM, etc). By and large it's worked great, but I noticed one problem: plugging in my headset in Windows doesn't work.

I've done a Google search and apparently older Mac Pros, Macbook Pros, etc. had this problem. They suggested using a powered mic or a USB mic (bleh). Is this still the case?

Yes. Get an iMic made by Griffin.

 

[shwc]

I am a little confused on what you are asking.
Headset = line out
mic = line in

if you are talking about line in then you need a powered mic. Macs mic port is a "line level," thus you need a powered mic (the imic adapter by Griffin will allow you to use a unpowered mic, or you can get a usb powered mic.)