We recommend the stage performance kit for beginners, which contains the mic, a mic stand plus a mic clip, a storage bag, and an XLR cable. The accompanying accessories are perfect for live performances and studio recordings. Design and Features Connecting Cables Samson Q2U Mic

We also recommend wearing headphones or headset during your recording. This will help you identify ambient sounds that make their way into your recording. If something is too loud (or you think it will be too hard to edit out later), consider pausing and recording that segment again. If you need headphones, we recommend the Sony MDR 7506 or the Sennheiser HD280 Pro. Other Microphone Options Is it the best microphone available? No. If you want the absolute best sound quality, there are plenty of better choices, but they come at significantly higher price points. Most podcasters decide to upgrade once their show begins generating revenue, typically to something like the Shure SM7B. While both microphones sport a similar design with slight color variations, the ATR2100 is lighter than the Samson Q2U, making it easier to use as a handheld microphone. Overall, the Q2U provides significantly improved audio over a headset or your computers internal microphone. The Q2U can be connected directly to your computer or mobile device via USB, or plugged directly into a mixer or audio interface with an XLR cable. You can also utilize both connections simultaneously for recording a live event or performance. Podcast PerfectionFurthermore, there is a noticeable boost in quality when you use the XLR connection. Don’t get us wrong, the USB connection doesn’t sound bad, but the XLR connection is clearly better. However, you need an audio interface for this, which adds to the cost. The first central point for the Samson Q2U is the XLR/USB output availability. As a beginner who may be on a tight budget, the USB connector allows you to record your audio without additional equipment. However, if you decide to upgrade the sound quality, you won’t have to worry about buying a new mic; you’ll be able to use this one. Regardless of what microphone you’re using, it’s always good to record your podcasts in a quiet, sound-dampened room– unless you’re going for a field-recorded “in the moment” effect. Nevertheless, the Samson Q2U is pretty forgiving of less-than-ideal recording conditions.

Well, it depends on your needs. Get yourself the Samson Q2U if you are looking to start podcasting and are eager to record but do not want to put too much effort into editing. The audio output will be almost perfect even without post-production. According to users, both microphones sound relatively similar, although the AT2100 is quieter and might require you to raise the volume more on it if you choose to. When you set up the Q2U mic, its recording volume is sufficient, unlike the SM58 mic, which requires you to boost the gain to reach a similar volume level. With the SM58, you will have to increase the gain on the audio interface to nearly 3/4 for the recording to be audible enough. Durability In terms of sound quality, some users feel the Q2U is sensitive to plosives. In our experience, any unwanted sensitivity is easily corrected with a pop-filter. Samson Q2U vs. Audio Technica's ATR2100x You should get an instant answer on whether your application has been successful, though in some rare cases Klarna or V12 may need to look at the application in more detail.The Q2U and SM58 are both dynamic mics with a cardioid polar pattern. These mics are unidirectional and only capture sound from the front side. They effectively reduce ambient noise that comes from the sides or behind the mic. The Q2U mic requires you to be careful and delicate when handling the mic, especially while plugging and unplugging the different parts. It would be best to prevent the mic from falling or any other abuse that may damage its functionality. With that said, these products are similar enough that you won’t regret buying either one. Further Reading

So, what's the difference between the mics? The ATR2100x has a USB-C output instead of the micro USB on the Q2U, making it easier to plug into your device and a bit faster to charge. Whereas a condenser microphone is highly sensitive to all sounds (even ambient sounds like your air conditioner or the traffic outside your window), a dynamic microphone is less sensitive, which makes it easier for new podcasters who don’t follow perfect microphone techniques yet. Samson Q2U specifications The Samson Q2U is often referred to as the “Swiss Army Knife” or microphones because it’s simple, versatile, and budget-friendly. That said, it’s not the right mic for everyone. If you intend on using an interface to podcast, and something breaks, you can switch to USB and record directly into your computer.Likewise, if you are on the road and have your microphone with you, there’s more chance of finding a setup to accommodate it if you want to do some recording on the fly. They are both in the lower price range, making it affordable for beginners and those still unsure if they want to commit more money and energy to do a podcast.Don't let "entry-level" throw you; the Q2U is a versatile mic used by seasoned and novice podcasters alike and rivals other higher-priced options. The mic is simple and does not have any additional features except the model with an “On/Off” power switch to enable and disable the mic. Sound Quality Another microphone with dual XLR/ USB output, making it a fitting choice for a podcast beginner, much like the Q2U. The XLR output is also a great mic to transition from a beginner to a more experienced podcaster. It is lighter, so it can be used on the go, outside, and on stage. Both mics capture quality audio that can stand up to more expensive mics, but we think the Q2U produces a slightly more resonant, fuller sound than audio from an ATR2100x and a better tonal quality – especially for the value.

If youre looking to start a new podcast, the Q2U is the best choice for creating a production studio on a budget. Whether youre recording a solo broadcast on your laptop or multi-person interviews through a mixing desk, the Q2U delivers high-quality audio effortlessly with minimal setup. It even has a 1/8" (3.5mm) headphone output to monitor the audio youre capturing, as well as the audio from your computer. A Stud in the StudioHowever, the Gear4music extended warranty scheme provides an enhanced service, and is designed to offer a higher level of protection than many 'free' warranties offered by some retailers and manufacturers. Having the option between a USB microphone and an XLR mic is convenient for podcasters who aren't yet ready to invest in an XLR mic and also serves as a built-in "plan B." There’s very little in it between the Q2U, the ATR2100, and the Maono AU-HD300T. I go into more detail in the post I’ve linked to there. XLR/USB Combo Mics The Samson Q2U, on the other hand, produces a louder sound and doesn’t require as much pre-amp to work with. Still, it is possible to encounter white noise when using Samson Q2U, especially when increasing the volume to the max. Given that they both have their flaws, it is crucial to try out both models to see which suits your needs better. So, which microphone do you buy in the end?