Samson Technologies - Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone with Accessories

For noisy environments skip the blue Yeti, get a dynamic mic like the Audio Technica ATR2100x USB or Samsung Q2U, both isolate your voice far better and stay under $100.

I started with a budget kit on Amazon too, and upgraded later as my show grew. A good starter setup: I’d say grab a simple USB mic like the Samson Q2U or ATR2100x and a set of closed back headphones. Add a cheap boom arm so you’re not holding it. Or Mike stand, That’s enough to get going without spending too much. I personally use my iMac as they are superb over windows IMO. If there are co-hosts (I think I saw that there are) you just double. the mics and headphones. It is a labor of love.

Shure SM57 and a Samson Q2U. Depends on which boom I have plugged in ATM.

Came here to say this. I still use the USB mic I started with, but was able to move to a mixer because it has both USB and XLR ports. ATR2100X is what I use but Samson Q2U is pretty identical as well. [Auphonic](https://auphonic.com) really is a lifesaver for me.

I would probably advise you to go with the Samson Q2U. I have 3 mics: Rode NT-1 5th Generation, Fifine K688, and the Samson. I believe the Samson is the best sounding for my setup, or let's say the easiest to deal with in terms of noise and clarity - I record in a room with some basic sound treatment.

I bought the Samson Q2U because it's a budget mic that has noise cancelling properties. Is it the best ever? no. Has it lasted forever? Also no. But it's a mic that a lot of bands or stages use because its' affordable and designed to highlight only the speaking voice (not the crowd). It has USB connection. I can't speak to the other options and what's good or bad, though.

For voice overs a condenser mic is typically used. The challenge is that you need a well treated recording space, soundproofed, etc. If you don't have such a space, it's better to use a dynamic mic, as it minimizes background noise. There are several options available. I personally use the Samson Q2U, which offers great value and includes both XLR and USB connections. *Moderator required disclosure: I'm founder of* [Podstatus](https://podstatus.com/)*, a service to monitor rankings and reviews of podcasts*

Samson Q2U, used it for years and the quality is still excelent. *Moderator required disclosure: I'm founder of* [Podstatus](https://podstatus.com/)*, a service to monitor rankings and reviews of podcasts*

Samson Q2U is my favorite. Used for years. Good quality and good price. *Moderator required disclosure: I'm founder of* [Podstatus](https://podstatus.com/)*, a service to monitor rankings and reviews of podcasts*

Samson Q2U is a tank, budget a good quality mic. *Moderator required disclosure: I'm founder of* [Podstatus](https://podstatus.com/)*, a service to monitor rankings and reviews of podcasts*

Samson Q2U, used it for years and never disappointed. *Moderator required disclosure: I'm founder of* [Podstatus](https://podstatus.com/)*, a service to monitor rankings and reviews of podcasts*

Samson Q2U. Affordable, good quality and both, XLR and USB. *Moderator required disclosure: I'm founder of* [Podstatus](https://podstatus.com/)*, a service to monitor rankings and reviews of podcasts*

Using a Samson Q2U in an untreated room near a window (like you) without problems. *Moderator required disclosure: I'm founder of* [Podstatus](https://podstatus.com/)*, a service to monitor rankings and reviews of podcasts*

I use a Samson Q2U since years and I am really happy with it. *Moderator required disclosure: I'm founder of* [Podstatus](https://podstatus.com/)*, a service to monitor rankings and reviews of podcasts*

Samson Q2U. Good price, good quality. XLR and USB. *Moderator required disclosure: I'm founder of* [Podstatus](https://podstatus.com/)*, a service to monitor rankings and reviews of podcasts*

For under $100 you could get the Fifine AM8, Samson Q2U, or if you can find it on sale the Samson Q9U. You'd have to get a mic arm to go with those mics and that'd add $20-50 depending on which one you get.

I recommend the Samson Q2U, good quality overall and has both XLR and USB connections. I'm very happy with the performance, I have a noisy gaming laptop sitting 2 feet behind it and it's not a problem...

I love my Samson Q2 :-)

Super cost-friendly IMO - Plus I've had mine for over a year and a half now I want to say? Constant use. No signs of wear and tear

I would agree here too OP -- That's going to be really difficult. Another good mic option that is pretty inexpensive is the Samson Q2 - I love that mic.