Samson Technologies - Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone with Accessories

Try the Samson Q2U, it's on the cheaper side but it's quality is up there with some of the best.

The Q2U and all the Audio-Technica ATR2100 varients have *HORRIBLE* handling noise. No point in paying for the USB in my opinion if it's not being used. !

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*

\+1 for the Samson Q2U mics. *Moderator required disclosure: I'm founder of* [Podstatus](https://podstatus.com/)*, a service to monitor rankings and reviews of podcasts.*

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

You want something with a short pickup pattern. If you're on a budget this would be a solid starter before you pick up a Shure as the end game mic Samson Technologies Q2U USB/XLR... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001R747SG?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share This with the filter on it should be what you're looking for. You just might need a better stand for it so you can keep it closer to your mouth.

Go with Q2U, it is cheap and great.

Pretty much anything you'd buy would be better than what you already tried. The quality distance between your earbuds and no preamp and a $50 usb mic is likely to be greater than the distance between a $50 usb mic and an interface plus a mic. You can spend a lot of money chasing that last 20%-30% that's the difference between the $50 USB mic and the more expensive gear. And once you know more, it may well be worth spendig the money to close that gap. But while you're learning, maybe not. Having an interface has other benefits and gives the option of using any XLR mic you want to use. It may also be better if you want to record something like guitar using a line in. But if $50-$70 is your budget, a USB mic could be a perfectly good all-in solution to get you started. Something like the Samson Q2U is like $70 an wouldn't be a bad place to start: [https://www.amazon.com/Samson-Handheld-Microphone-Recording-Podcasting/dp/B001R747SG?ref\_=ast\_sto\_dp&th=1](https://www.amazon.com/Samson-Handheld-Microphone-Recording-Podcasting/dp/B001R747SG?ref_=ast_sto_dp&th=1) It's a dynamic mic in the same general area as an SM58 and also an XLR mic, so you can use it with an interface later if you buy one.

If you are gaming, then get a dynamic mic as it is far better at not picking up typing noise or a washing machine. There is a reason basically all streamers and podcasters use a dynamic mic instead of a condenser one. Good budget ones are the audio technical ATR 2100x, Samsung Q2U, and Fifine K688 or AM8. I recommend listening to a youtube video to see what one you like the best.

I really like my Samson Q2Us for podcasting, but I would not use them for voiceover work.

If you are on a shoe string budget I would advise a Zoom Podtrak4 and four Samson Q2U or four Audio Technica 2100X. If you have a pretty powerful budget you can aim for a Rode Procaster II and four Rode Podmics with table stands or boom arms, or four Shure 7dBs if you really want to spend some money. There are two extremes for a four person podcast with XLR for separate channels, there are lots of options in-between.

I use them handheld when I record with my Q2U and the handling noise isn’t bad, but I also make an active effort not to use it like a shake weight or move very much with it. I actually get a lot more handling noise from it when I have it in my PSA1 and have to move the boom arm than when I’m hand holding it.

People tend to go for condenser USB mics, which are good.. but you need more faffing about in an untreated room to sound good. A mic like the Samson or SM58 will sound absolutely fine in more noisy conditions so that a beginner can focus on their craft and not the gear.

I love hearing others recommend this!!! Dynamic mics are the best for beginners! And the Q2U is a fantastic choice

1000% this, came here to strongly recommend it. People skip over it WAY too often

I've used one for about 6 months, it's good for the price. I also have (and like) the Samson Q2U

Samson Q2U is a favored choice. It has upgradeability in the future if you ever get an audio interface. As for capture card, I’m assuming you’ll be recording at 1080p 60 FPS, and I think the NZXT HD60 is the best option. Total should be less than $150. But if you really want to go cheap, then you can go for a standard FiFine USB mic with a boom arm. Microphones nowadays don’t need to be expensive to sound good. A FiFine USB mic with a boom arm will be around $45. I’m adamant you get a capture card from an actual reputable seller. NZXT is known, and the HD60 is around $70-80. They have a 2 year warranty, so any issues that happens to your capture card will be covered. Don’t get a capture card from a random seller, the capture card will likely work for a few months, then just not work. Edit: the picture of AverMedia is also good, and better than my recommendation.