Best Budget Podcast Microphones (FAQ Series)

[@romari2706]

Great selections. The USB connection is crucial to lower the cost barrier to podcasting.

[@orestes1984]

It allows you to plug straight into the best camera you have in your pocket which is an iPhone most likely and start recording straight away.

[@jwcurry83]

The Q2U has been a perfect entry level mic for me! Been running it via XLR with the UM2... highly recommended for the best bang for your buck with XLR.

[@johnsmithjr.9321]

Do you use anything extra, like a pop filter, cloud lifter, etc.?

[@CiciASMR]

would you recommend Q2U for vocals?

[@danmagoo]

I recently got 3 of the XM8500 mics -- from Bandrew's sponsor, in fact! -- for $60 and it's pretty amazing, certainly for the price. But the Q2U still beats them all for signal to noise ratio, in Windows -- at least by ear, and compared to using the XM8500 with the Behringer UM2 interface (I tried both, as well as the 2 AT mics, as a budget set-up for a friend). I'd recommend either of those over the AT2005 or the ATR2100, because the last 2 are certainly good but just too quiet, at least with USB in WIndows. My AT2005 has developed an asymmetrical wave-form (looks like dripping blood, and it messes-up post processing), and does not have the lifetime guarantee that the ATR2100 has.

[@bradleytrim7280]

Can't vouch enough for the Samson Q2U. Use it while gaming on PC and I'm frequently complimented on the sound quality. And people claim they can't hear my mechanical keyboard or children in the background. So the noise rejection is great. Edit: My ONLY complaint is that, when using it via USB, I have to unplug and replug the USB cable anytime I start or restart my computer. Not too big of a deal as I usually unplug the mic at the end of the night anyway.

[@Podcastage]

Awesome feedback and critique there. That seems to be a really common issue with a lot of usb device on windows. No idea what causes that, if it’s windows, or the drivers for these devices. Regardless, thank you so much for sharing. It’s alwYs amazing hearing real world use case feedback, and hearing someone finding the right mic. ❤️

[@linkinjay]

You can update the firmware at their website. samsontech.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/360045374974-Q2U-Firmware-?mobile_site=true

[@gyozakeynsianism]

I have the same problem. If you don't, it'll start buzzing, right?

[@gyozakeynsianism]

I've had a few USB mics for my Windows PC and it's just the Samson Q2U that had this problem.

[@gyozakeynsianism]

Back! I found the firmware on Samson's website, updated the mic, and the issue with having to reconnect the USB cable is gone. It works fine now!

[@chaosinternational3584]

7:00 it also depends if the people you are podcasting with (if you have guests on the show) are disciplined with a mic. a lot of people drift away from the mic, and this could be a problem for the dynamic microphones.

[@jorgefnx]

Lol I wouldn't mind watching ads like that every day of the week

[@Podcastage]

Thanks Jorge. I tried to make it fun so even people who hate ads or don’t care can get something out of it. Hope it brought some fun to folks Friday.

[@hooshangmaster]

@@Podcastage i wouldn't mind 18+ ads. so get to it!

[@5daboz]

Try Terrible Writing Advice, he has the best ads segments, they are sometimes more developed than the rest of the video.

[@beatdiabetes3]

I was really, really wanting to buy a Rode Procaster for my KZbin "tabletalk" about diabetes. But while I debated and watched reviews about the Procaster (which were nearly all positive) I was currently using the XM8500. And I liked the way my voice sounded with it. In fact I liked it so much that I have decided to stick with it. In some ways this was disappointing, not to get a new, cool mic. But I just couldn't escape the fact that, to my ears, the XM8500 was doing so incredibly well that it hardly seemed reasonable to look for anything else. I may change my mind in the future, but there is no escaping that the XM8500 mic can really compete with the big boys. Makes me wonder how and why they sell it so cheap!

[@LiraeNoir]

A very important thing. New gear can be cool to open and fiddle with, but almost always it's not the road to success. If you like your voice in the XM8500, you made the right decision of keeping it. That's a proper amount of money saved you can keep, or invest in something else. And for most beginners, that something else should be room acoustic treatment, or courses/books for audio engineering. That make more of an impact than switching mics, a lot of times.

[@MrFree-vj8qj]

Smart people save the money and invest it into radio voice, singing, tactical speech, voice acting lessons in this way only they achieve new heights and success with a better and more convincing, pleasant voice

[@chilinnstream3811]

For me Shure SV200 great for my voice. Pick this mic from many others, even more expensive. I have rode podmic and se electronics v7x, and they sound awfull for my voice. So, you doing right to not buying rode.

[@ruthless3253]

I'm so happy you got a sponsor!!!!!!!! This channel is blowing up and you 100% deserve it my dude

[@caseyonlocation8257]

Thanks for the tip about the Audio Technica dual XLR/USB mics being able to both plug into a computer and XLR audio mixer/recorder at the same time for simultaneous recording. I thought it was only one or the other. I'm going to give it a try.

[@wadebradshaw3522]

I love the Samson Q2U. I bought it because of your review that you did on it over a year ago.

[@Furiac.]

Same here.

[@gyozakeynsianism]

I love the Q2U and I did indeed buy it based on Bandrew's recommendation. BUT ... the unit I got was faulty. If you left it plugged into your computer (mine is a Windows PC) and restarted the computer, the mic starts buzzing really badly. Sounds like a circuitry problem, and I've read similar complaints on the web. Pity, it really did sound good, especially for the money.

[@gyozakeynsianism]

Nevermind, I found the firmware update on the Samson website and it fixed the problem.

[@riteshpandya466]

do you need a sound card or just plug in in your pc usb port ? for noise cancellation ?

[@boobyrajput3855]

@@gyozakeynsianism 9th92œw8q

[@birdsonthehoodeatingpopcor415]

I own a Berhringer XM 8500 and a UM-2 directly due to Bandrew! Thank you, Dude!

[@mattyclad9185]

I use the ATR2100 in xlr mode and its fantastic. My utility room is directly behind the wall my computer is on and it does not pick up a sound from my furnace or AC when the fans are blowing. And it sounds great too. I always get comments on how good I sound without much adjustment.

[@Simisola124]

Thank you for the advice on the microphones! I believe you one of the most honest reviewers on KZbin, and I appreciate that.

[@Jeerven]

i have The xm8500 Plugged in to a umc22 Interface. Sounds Great.

[@danboud8135]

Gave a like for the Sponsor Sheep!

[@LiraeNoir]

Honestly, it felt a touch cringy. Having such a heavy sponsor time on a FAQ episode… meh. Especially being at the beginning of the video.

[@danboud8135]

@@LiraeNoir Oh no! A KZbinr making a buck from his efforts and being a little self-deprecating about it by making the ad intentionally corny? What a douche! Bruh...

[@gyozakeynsianism]

From the sound of the cough, I think Sheryl needs the cash for medication. Insurance doesn't cover all of that, you know ...

[@SinisterSkip]

I first though that the Q2U would easily win, but WOW, that XM8500 imo sounds more balanced EQ wise. Probably the best 20 euro mic ever :)

[@knightsljx]

unfortunately it doesn't have USB, which means you need to factor in the cost of an XLR interface

[@Alex_3311DesignCo]

I just upgraded my setup with the xm8500 and love them. Good to record my podcast on location without needing massive preamps. Or my mixer. They work well with zoom h4n. And for the price they are a helluva deal Still run at2020 if I want to go condenser and phantom power route.

[@agambhasin]

The XM8500 is my favourite! I use it for my podcast and voiceovers with a Behringer UMC22 on my laptop & PC & with my Zoom U-22 audio interface on my iPad & its totally amazing!! I would love to see a review of the Zoom U22 from you Bandrew! Pls consider it!!

[@fightermma]

Where's your podcast?

[@GetawayCultureClub]

best video on the subject and great that you didn't just offer audio technica and Samson q2u like everyone else. so thanks for throwing in the behringer. Like.

[@SAKA-92]

Just bought the Behringer for £14 on Amazon 🔥 I think a good video series to do would be an entire budget/beginner versus setup. Mic, audio interface, boom arm/stand, XLR cables and room treatment all with future proofing in mind 👍🏼

[@peterbejune9433]

XM8500 Hype!!!! Upgraded to a Shure SM57 with the A81WS windscreen for my primary mic, co-host uses my old XM8500, the XM8500 sounds great for $20 though!

[@h00b00]

I bought the same setup after watching videos that it can be made to sound like SM7B but soon found out that you definitely need a Cloudlifter or Fethead for it to work properly. The -57dB sensitivity of the SM57 meant that it is not loud enough for vocals on my Zoom H4n even at full gain and my Behringer UMC204HD interface can barely get it to -18dB on the Vumeter for vocals at max gain. I ordered a Fethead from eBay but got an empty box 😒... ordered again and I'm still waiting. The XM8500 has an even lower sensitivity (as per B&H; no information on the official website) of -70dB making it even harder to drive. I wish I hadn't bought into the KZbin hype and just went with a proper vocal mic like Sennheiser E835 with it's easy to drive -3dB sensitivity.

[@xHadesStamps]

@@h00b00 The -70 dB sensitivity is rubbish. It's tested with an old method.

[@adelineinactivity]

I bought an xm8500 recently! sounds great with the sabrent usb sound card!

[@agambhasin]

Bhoopati Baboo -70Db? That is trash it is louder than the 57 or 58 at the same gain levels! Lol

[@justheathers]

The xm8500 sounds so different to the others and is such a great option. I love that the others have usb/xlr, it's what sold me on one but the usb does sound different than when they are connected via xlr in my opinion. #Q2UHype

[@Podcastage]

Yeah the xm8500 really is incredible for $20.

[@xxeitarei]

@@Podcastage would the sound quality still be decent if I were to use a xlr/usb cable instead of the um2 with the xm8500? great channel and videos

[@SinisterSkip]

So your Q2U sounds better with XLR to your interface? If so, what's the biggest difference? I might buy a Q2U but I already have a good interface.

[@WEHAVETHISDREAM]

Not just your opinion. In my experience, an USB SOUNDCARD + XLR MICROPHONE will always sound superior to an USB MIC. No matter what the marketing tells you. Now way they will ever put super good A-D converters / preamps in an USB MIC (mostly intended for gamers and kids… or “home-office” 🤦🏻‍♂️). But a decent “standard” mic through a good interface will always bring higher quality results. Especially on Windows OS. Speaking from experience and some testing.

[@NotTheOnlyMattAround]

Funny. Sweetwater is where I got my first microphone, the XM8500. I recorded an audiobook with that baby. Passed ACX with no problems. Can't go wrong with any of these.

[@Podcastage]

DUDE! No way!? You recorded an audio book with the XM8500!? That's incredible.

[@birdsonthehoodeatingpopcor415]

Much respect!

[@eg3100]

I totally agree with you, i am using an XM8500 with a UM2 interface, and it is very well rejecting the background noise, my wife can even watch tv in the same room while i speaking to the mic. I have a Samson Meteor USB mic, and it is awfull, it picks up the the smallest noise from the room, unusable for live streaming...

[@LaHoraMaker]

100% Agree that dynamic mics do wonders in untreated rooms vs the Yeti's

[@orestes1984]

The fact that a dynamic microphone is dynamic by its very nature will lead to it not having a noise floor. Do you know what a dynamic microphone needs to pick up noise? Noise.... Do you know what a small diaphragm dynamic microphone with a cardiod patterns needs to pick up noise? Even more noise... It needs a shed load worth of noise to even make a sound. Technically in a perfect dynamic microphone much more in line with the SM7B at the entry price point under $500 there shouldn't be any noise at all. and if there is while your not using it, whatever you're using to amp it is either cheap or faulty, and maybe both. Dynamics should not have a "noise floor" as such as it has to move a voice coil to make noise. Omni directional condensers such as the Blue Yetti.... Not so much, the Yetti will pick up every noise in the room and all the rreverb and dead spots in your room at the same time, that's why unless you know how to use one a polar pattern condenser microphone is probably the worst choice for someone starting out.

[@ChrisGardinerBill]

I use the XM8500 and honestly I can’t fault it for the money I spent on it ~$35 Aussie.

[@ClohOrtega]

I got the Behringer XM8500 inside the POSCASTUDIO 2 USB (or smth like that) set over at Costco here in Mexico. So far so good! I was mainly looking for a pair of headphones but saw these and went "hhmmmm". It came with the mic, a Xenyx302 USB, a pair of HPM1000 headphones, and a small tripod. It's nowhere near a pro setup, but it does the job pretty well imo. I don't do recording, just chilling, but you can use this kit as a better solution for audio on your setup.

[@Leftism11]

Thank you so much for creating these videos and comparing all of the microphones, and offering your recommendations. Every time I am looking for information on a mic, or comparing two mics, your videos come up, and I immediately watch them, knowing that I'll see a great review and practical recommendation.

[@StephensCustomModels]

You're such a wealth of knowledge and have saved me from potentially pulling the trigger on bad entry level mics. Thank you!

[@Kragatar]

I have a couple of XM8500's that I got for free with a Behringer mixer, and they seem really good for $20 mics.

[@xHadesStamps]

Free?? (With a purchase obviously). Nice!

[@andik6]

Agree. Condensers are ONLY the better option if you have well-treated environment, which many of us dont have..

[@daystarinspectionsinc3250]

I have the Samson Q2U and it's my first experience with a dynamic mic. With my voice and the need to get close to the mic, a pop filter is necessary. No big deal. One issue I do have with this mic is the handling noise. Unusable as a handheld mic. Is this common with this type of mic? If so, could you address how to deal with this in an upcoming video and also rate the handling noise of handheld mics in your future reviews? Much appreciated, Love your channel!

[@MikeyPerk]

The Samson Q2U is my fav. I use it for a guest mic. Opposite to my SM7B.

[@Podcastage]

mikeyperk dang. Two of my favorite mics in one set up. You won’t find any arguments from me!

[@Jml2475]

@@Podcastage what do you prefer, the sm7b or re20. Mainly for a podcast and other talking head type stuff.

[@Podcastage]

@@Jml2475 I actually did a video on that comparison: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mJSqdqihpquZiqM

[@LiraeNoir]

@Jose Lara it really depend on the individual voices. Some voices are better on the Shure, some are better on the Electro. Also note that the SM7B is a touch better at side noise rejection than the RE20. Not a whole lot, but enough that it's heard.

[@Jml2475]

@@Podcastage I found that video right after I asked the question lol thank you!

[@mason5137]

yep, they are better at back.noise removal. And byes, i do agree with your choises

[@markhodgen7386]

You have excellent mic technique because I heard fewer plossives than I expected on these types of mics. The Q2U sounded best to my ears. Thanks for the comparison!

[@Veo87]

I have the Audio-Technica ATR2100 for podcasting, so seeing you recommend it makes me feel good!

[@m4p1k15]

I know this is a lot to ask but can u make a video specifically on the behringer xm8500 with a xlr to usb cable and the best settings for it INTERNALLY IN A PC NOT WITH AN AUDIO INTERFACE

[@theoutsiderjess1869]

As someone who bought the blur yeti as their first microphone for podcast I know first hand that dynamic is the way to go especially when you live in the city that never sleeps

[@orestes1984]

The fact that a dynamic microphone is dynamic by its very nature will lead to it not having a noise floor. Do you know what a dynamic microphone needs to pick up noise? Noise.... Do you know what a small diaphragm dynamic microphone with a cardiod patterns needs to pick up noise? Even more noise... It needs a shed load worth of noise to even make a sound. Technically in a perfect dynamic microphone much more in line with the SM7B at the entry price point under $500 there shouldn't be any noise at all. and if there is while your not using it, whatever you're using to amp it is either cheap or faulty, and maybe both. In fact there shouldn't be any noise from any dynamic. Dynamics should not have a "noise floor" as such as it has to move a voice coil to make noise. Omni directional condensers such as the Blue Yetti.... Not so much, the Yetti will pick up every noise in the room and all the rreverb and dead spots in your room at the same time, that's why unless you know how to use one a polar pattern condenser microphone is probably the worst choice for someone starting out.

[@DoctorShroom]

On the section at 5:10 about avoiding the motherboard's sound card. Would any old external audio interface work instead? Would an audio interface be necessary (or recommended) for a USB microphone as well? Pre-Amps?

[@orestes1984]

Some external audio interfaces are better than others....

[@TheKAZS]

I've bought the Behringer XM1800s set of three and I'm so satisfied

[@Podcastage]

I’ve heard good things about those mics as well.

[@DukeFavre]

Haha. I love the Blue Yeti, but He's totally right. I live in a noisy city. The Q2U is cheap and fantastic. But you may need a mixer.

[@0s0sXD]

this sponsor ad is up there in my list of best ads ever

[@getmetoadoctor]

For me the Q2U has been brilliant. What would have been nice to hear was the handling noise rather than the mic on a stand. The Q2U handles it pretty well.

[@Kaiderman]

Shure sv200 or XM8500? I gonna use with a interface Behringer UMC 22.

[@shinerstef]

SM58 is perfect for podcasts in my view. 🎤👍

[@MrJmanguera]

the xm8500 is sooooo underrated!

[@nebli6844]

Sorry im new at audio stuff but what is no post processing?

[@taunbeddes7055]

I've had great luck with Sweetwater. Sales person checks on me a few times but isn't pushy. I would buy from them anytime.

[@ProBluesPlayer]

PERFECT SPONSOR SEGMENT!

[@Podcastage]

Thanks so much Blues. I had a lot of fun with this one just getting weird and making more of sketch. Breaks up the monotony.

[@knightsljx]

Excellent video. I was considering between the Q2U and AT2005 and needed a good comparison between the 2

[@Cb-vg8gm]

Which one do you think is best for vocals on music bro

[@mmmikem]

Greetings!!! You always mention questions in your videos, maybe you can help me out. I bought a Q2u based on your recommendation and have been wondering, what would be the benefit of setting the software volume to 25%? I can't think how that would really affect anything once normalised? Secondly, is there a significant difference between the USB interface and running through the XLR? I'm having some noise issues and am not sure where to invest into next (besides room treatment)

[@raymondlooi]

Agree, more than agree -- Dynamic Microphone for Podcast (No Acoustic Treated Room)! Then, give it some tweak & processing in POST. BOOM... Sound (Voice) Thick and Clear!... humble opinion...😎

[@thorstenhitzemann3644]

Nice video, very helpful. Tx! If you had to chose, which of those 4 would be your favorite?

[@gmarcoux]

great review! well rounded, not too long. On another note I agree with you about the yeti. Im dont know much about microphone but I have a yeti myself and I feel like the yeti is more of a jack of all trade mic. it does a lot with mild result but doesnt sound very proffesional for more precision work. Singing and podcast doesnt sound that good. But I did have good result with it while doing a DND campain to get everyone voices in the room.

[@kesamek8537]

Super useful and highly entertaining. Wish all of KZbin was like this.

[@evelasq1]

I have a lavalier mic that connects directly to my iPhone when I am blogging on video. It sounds good too.

[@mauresmorantes]

I use the XM8500 and it sounds so good for the price, additionally I love the design, color, texture, materials and finishes of the microphone, personally I highly recommend it. Thanks for the video. PS: greetings to the sheep 🐑 😂😂😂, I loved it

[@codegame027]

One other option I would have liked to see is a XM8500 and a XLR->USB cable. I feel that is viable on the super budget end of the spectrum. It is even similar price vs. the XLR to 3.5mm option.

[@dandruff7807]

Cody Guns.......You don't want to connect a dynamic mic into an xlr/usb cable. Your computer will deliver 5 volts into the dynamic mic which is a no no.

[@JAmediaUK]

@@dandruff7807 depends how the USB is wired in the mic. XLR is THE standard microphone connector and that can suply 24/48V phantom power. You have to remember to set it on the decice the mic is connecting to.

[@FullTimeRookiee]

Definitely a thumbs up for this video....thanks for all the great videos....you're the best out here on mics

[@yuranival]

Instalike although I do not intend to start a podcast just yet. It's still interesting what kind of sounding entry level dynamic mics provide. Do dynamic mics typically have lower or higher noise floor than condenser ones?

[@LiraeNoir]

Self noise, I don't think there's a big difference overall, but Bandrew knows more about this he could give his experience. Yet, dynamics usually require more gain which would make more noise on entry level amplifiers (audio interfaces), and condensers takes much more ambient noises.

[@SDisonYT]

I’m trying to decide between the two Audio Technica options.

[@2EOGIY]

What is the better option: look for a mic that gives me that vintage radio voice or look for flat characteristic mic and EQ it to achieve radio voice effect? Of course, In both cases, I omit the presence boost effect.

[@marquisor]

Is there something between dynamic and condenser microphone regarding the angle of speech input? The dynamic I find too close, the condenser to wide... :-/

[@Arard_yt]

Oh i've never seen Samson Q2u, thanks man.

[@bradleytrim7280]

I own one. It's a great microphone.

[@mikethomas8997]

Good choice of mics. I would possibly change out the 2005 for a SM58. It would be interesting to run the ATR2100/Q2U comparison between USB, XLR and XLR via a 286s.

[@VaderWhoop]

Would be interesting to see an ultra budget sound off between an xlr to usb lead and the um2 ; using the 8500 Mic. Who wins on noise level, signal strength and overall sound ? It's tempting to just laugh and say UM2 because it cost more than an xlr to usb lead ....but who knows until we know? 😊 With holiday season approaching and lots of people to buy for and not a whole lot of money, it would be nice to know which low cost audio gifts won't end up straight in the trash can. ✌😊

[@stalfhcorner]

do i need to set up a high gain when i connect XM8500 to the scarlet solo for better sound? is it effect the sound? specially on high notes ?

[@bigmanting0599]

What one would you say sounds best?

[@ModiTheTravellerofficial]

Best audio equipment reviewer so far. Question is the selection still valid in 2022 ?! Pls need an urgent answer if you can. Need a budget mic for KZbin and recording educational lectures. I need to play some recordings during the lecture so I think that I need an omnidirectional instead of moving the mic everytime I play the recordings. Any suggestions…!

[@loafy69]

Number 1 channel I go to when I want to know something about a mic. Very educational and well spoken. He also gives instrument tests and singing. So that’s a bonus 😎👍

[@ethanstechworld207]

I use the Samson Q2U and absolutely Love it!!!

[@habibullahsamander2798]

How does Q2U work in Windows 10?

[@ethanstechworld207]

@@habibullahsamander2798 Works great for me. It has an option for both USB right to your computer, (plug and play) as well as an XLR cable which you'd need an external device. Also has a headphone jack for zero latency monitoring which I think is Great!

[@habibullahsamander2798]

@@ethanstechworld207 In which OS you use it? Some say that it's sound is very low in Windows 10?

[@ethanstechworld207]

@@habibullahsamander2798 It sounds great when using it in Windows 10 operating system.

[@Cheese_Heads]

sm48?

[@Dezal3]

I just bought a Q2U and primarily using it to connect to my 2017 Mac. So far I’ve noticed plosives are very evident in my use and I’m considering buying a pop filter. Was curious what your setup is because you have almost no plosives without a pop filter

[@Carrion2k]

Sweetwater is a great company! Awesome that they've started sponsoring you.

[@echofx3935]

Did you use a cloudlifter or some other kind of mic activator for the Behringer microphone, or is that the sound directly from the preamps on the audio interface? I have an older Apex 381 (I think) dynamic mic and when I used it with a Steinberg UR12, it was super quiet until I turned the gain on the interface all the way up. This introduced a lot of background noise/hiss though.

[@txsilentknight]

Wtf...🤣😂 love the ad lmao. Everyone is so serious these days on channels like this. Pleasantly surprised

[@bestkiller1758]

Podecastage can u please do Sennheiser gsp 300 headset mic test please

[@Basilisks666]

Hello! I have a watched a handful of videos of yours to see what was my best option for starting recording voice overs of texts (dramatic readings) and finally decided on the behringer xm8500 (seen as you always complained of background noise with the USB connected mics xDD). Now my question, after trying to document myself a little bit, I've still got one: Having the mic connected to the Behringer UM2, with what kind of wire do I connect the Behringer UM2 to the computer? Many thanks for all the insights you provide with your videos :) PS: does the mic or the Behringer UM2 need some kind of powering? If so, what kind of power adapter?

[@chaosinternational3584]

5:30 A microphone for your computer, quite literally lmao

[@theiammike123]

I did mic-to-motherboard back then. Now having an audio interface, it was a huge relief. But I've learned an awful lot from the previous one, when it comes to audio processing, and making the most of what we have. 😊 I still have a BM800, but I'm gonna have a lot of fun with it before buying an AT2035. 😁

[@buddhistsympathizer1136]

Great video as always. I have the Behringer XM8500 and for me it's the best of the 'cheaper' range of mics that I own, and the one that I use the most. In your review, it sounds the best (smoothest) - The other Mics seem to be a little harsher/sharper in tone.

[@Podcastage]

Thank you very much for the comment. For the price it certainly is a great deal. A lot of the more affordable side of mics tend to exhibit that harshness that you mention. I appreciate you sharing your thoughts and sharing what mic you've landed on and why, this is very helpful information for people researching. Have a great day.

[@CoalitionGaming]

If i wanted to use the XM8500 plugged directly to my camera's 3.5mm mic jack, an XLR to 1/4in to 1/8th in adapter setup should do the trick right? I guess unless there is a XLR to 3.5mm adapter already out there that does this with less adapter points....there probably is now that i think about. Currently i have an old Radioshack dynamic mic that sounds pretty damn good that is 1/4in and i adapt it for use with my camera, but the mic is out of production i think so recommending the XM8500 with the proper adapter setup to use it similarly might be something i start doing.

[@VaderWhoop]

Why would you want to do that? There are lots of similarly decent 3.5mm terminated lavalier/lapel mics around $24 (£20). Have a scoot about on KZbin to verify. Techmoan ( KZbin channel ) uses a £20 lavalier Mic in most of his recordings.( to get you started on the audio quality listening quest ) 🤗

[@shahanaakther6301]

Review MXL 440 50$ condenser microphone

[@RayOrtega]

Sponsor. Love it. Sweetwater is well, swueet.

[@jaimesk1688]

Most popular podcaster mics have a softer high end than performance mics, and the XM8500 sounds right in the pack for that. Speak off-axis 30deg, and who needs the SM7B. My favorite dynamic is the Senn E835, but that's too bright for podcast...the soft air-range sound in podmics lowers fatigue for long talks.

[@KlydosStudio]

Have you tried the Samson C05CL? Pretty legit for it's price.

[@f.sattar]

That was a troll 2 reference at the start? This channel just gets better and better...

[@Podcastage]

They’re eating her, and then they’re going to eat me! Oh my gooooooooooood!

[@pyro226]

I would like to buy a gaming microphone. I was originally looking at a Samson Meteor. Saw your review of it that leads me to believe it's good enough for my use case. Looking through your channel, the most recent 2021 intermediate and better roundup led me here. I was wondering if any of these would be a better fit than the Samson Meteor. I plan to have the mic on the desk about arm's reach. The part toward the end about needing these microphones close makes me hesitate to buy unless I know what I'm getting into. If I go bare mic, I'd also need some type of desk stand as the Q2U's stand is not good / adequate according to reviews. The Meteor also seems like it's more likely to survive an accidental fall from the desk. Any suggestions?

[@JackTol]

My Audio Technica AT2020 is making the EXACT same noise that the XM8500 was making at 5:12 I have been searching EVERYWHERE on how to fix this problem and I was even thinking about buying a new microphone because I thought that this one was like broken for making that sound. If you could troubleshoot this for me I would be forever grateful as this sounds horrible at the moment. It's making me so frustrated. I have the following components: Audio Technica AT2020 XLR Microphone Power Dynamics PDX25 as the USB Audio Interface Standard $12 XLR Male - XLR Female Cable My setup is like this. I have the USB-B side of cable plugged into USB Audio Interface and the USB-A side of the cable plugged into the USB 3.0 port on the front of my PC, then an XLR Male - XLR Female cable plugged in from the USB Audio Interface directly into the bottom of my microphone, ironically exactly how Podcastage recommended we I set it towards the end of the "How To Connect an XLR Mic to Computer for Beginners " video, except with the only difference being the brand of USB Audio Interface. I have no idea why the microphone is making this super annoying hissing noise, but it makes me feel like I spent all this money for nothing. Any help or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance.

[@UmairVatao]

Great information. May I ask you something, - What about using a condenser mic with lowering the gain to a minimum? will it behave in a similar way...i.e. you will need to keep your mouth very close. - What about shotgun mics? assume a budget one like Diety V3. Or slightly higher budget like Rode VideoMic NTG. Context: Untreated room, with kids / road noise.

[@HatnSneakerz]

What are your thoughts on: BandLab Link Series Audio Interface BLB-01100 and BandLab Link Series Audio Interface BLB-011001

[@Thrashman138]

For my money, the SM48 blows away all of these microphones and you can find it on sale quite often for around $30. It's the best entry-level microphone in my opinion, no contest.

[@globeagentronburgundy9747]

Brandon Campbell Isn't it xlr only? That fact alone guarantees it's not blowing 3 of these out of the water. And the way it sounds also has been deemed worse for vocals than the xm8500 and q2u so I don't know why you think the sm48 is so much better.

[@Thrashman138]

@@globeagentronburgundy9747 I believe the SM48 is superior because I have more than 20 years of experience working with pro audio gear in radio, TV, audio book, KZbin, Twitch and music production. I've also used more microphones than most people realize exist. But what do I know? lol Those other mics you mentioned are fine, but I've yet to meet an audio pro who I respect that would choose either of those over the 48, for vocals or instruments. I know I wouldn't, especially if I was running sound for a live gig or a podcast. The 48 is exceptional at blocking out unwanted stage/room noise without sounding muffled and it's got a comparatively flat EQ, unlike those other mics, which helps you get the sound you want with post production. I'm having a hard time believing that someone who knows their gear would say the 48 doesn't sound good on vocals, especially considering that mic is specifically designed for vocal use. Also, the 48 is built like a tank. As for your other point, I feel pity for anyone that believes a USB connection could rival the sound quality of an XLR+DAC. USB mics are fine for chat and video games, but none of the pros I've worked with in production or broadcasting would ever choose a USB over XLR. So it depends on what you're using it for. If you're serious about your gear and are trying to pursue some level of professionalism using microphones always go XLR, even if you're just starting out. Affordable yet quality DACs exist. However, if saving money is the most important detail, sure go USB. But don't fool yourself into thinking that's of comparable quality.

[@globeagentronburgundy9747]

"I believe the SM48 is superior because I have more than 20 years of experience working with pro audio gear in radio, TV, audio book, KZbin, Twitch and music production." The reviews disagreeing with you have more experience than you both individually and naturally when combined. "I've also used more microphones than most people realize exist." Podcastage has reviewed more microphones than you know exist and he disagreed with you. "But what do I know? lol" Obviously not much if you think something as subjective as how a microphone sounds can be ranked clear cut.

[@Thrashman138]

Liar. Mr. Podcastage himself recommends the SM48 as a uniquely positioned budget microphone in its own full video here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kKW6kGh7jcyFY6s And if you do a quick Amazon or Google search of SM48 reviews the breathtaking majority are positive. But you go ahead and believe whatever you want, use whatever gear you want. I simply answered your questions. Amazon: www.amazon.com/dp/B0002D0HY4/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_apa_i_WQfYDbY9EV344 Google: www.google.com/search?q=SM48%20review

[@globeagentronburgundy9747]

"Mr. Podcastage himself recommends the SM48 as a uniquely positioned budget microphone in its own full video here:" Nice strawman there, the question was not if he recommends it or not, the question was is it the "best entry level microphone, no contest" like you seem to be claiming. He does not even include that microphone in this video of best budget (entry level) microphones for podcasting, if he agreed with you, naturally the sm48 would be included in this video. "And if you do a quick Amazon or Google search of SM48 reviews the breathtaking majority are positive." So now it's appeal to popularity fallacy? Other microphones like the q2u also have positive reviews, so that doesn't tell us anything about which is the best one if such even exists. "But you go ahead and believe whatever you want, use whatever gear you want. I simply answered your questions." I didn't need your permission to do that and your answers suck. It's also fairly revealing and pathetic that you like your own comments :)

[@Nowherechente]

Can you review Samson Q8x and Q7x please? Saludos desde Chile

[@antoniobradley6259]

The sponsor intro is awesome very creative!

[@metal571]

I see that Austrian Audio mic, I click like. Then I see Sponsor Sheep and I wish I could click it twice

[@Podcastage]

Thanks man. The Austrian audio will be coming soon!

[@Podcastage]

PS: thanks for the heads up about that company. I’m having a lot of fun with it and I haven’t even tried the mini xlr output or their plugin.

[@metal571]

Austrian Audio presents: AKG 2

[@yamanalmasri1976]

Much appreciated. Very helpful video.

[@bettyyang9203]

I love this video. It's so helpful.

[@brianphuket5951]

Can you use any of these mics and do talking on social media calling like FB, LINE, Viber or any of these going thru my imac? Thank you

[@ioan_jivan]

Dude, that was the best sponsor sheep transition I've seen 😂