SAMSON Q2U Recording and Podcasting Pack - USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone with Accessories (Includes Mic Clip, Desktop Stand, Windscreen and Cables), 16-bit, 44.1kHz/48kHz, Silver

It is an amazing Microphone for the price! I don't use an audio box so I just hook it up straight to my laptop and the sound quality is fantastic! You have the choice of connecting via USB or XLR depending on your preference and it's as simple as PLUG AND PLAY.Get a pop filter to go with it if you can as it doesn't come with one, but even without one the sound is pretty crisp and clear.It looks professional and the stand it comes with keeps it nice and compact for easy folding away and transportation and I expect it will probably fit most extension arms.Really good product, really good price, really good sound quality. It's a fantastic purchase and an easy purchase to make for someone who's just starting out.

A really good microphone, been using it for just over 5 years, and much more in the past two-three years.Recording volume can be quiet, but’s because it’s a dynamic microphone. Just make sure to position it close to you.My main use is recording the King James Bible, and I use Audacity to filter the background noise and amplitude normalisation (to get the volume up).With an arm stand and a vibration attachment I get very good sound quality for the price. Would recommend!

The audio quality from this microphone is amazing. It has good treble and good bass capture. Easy to use and plug and play, I have it on a flexible mount and it’s been really great to use. Would certainly recommend!

If you have plugged your headphones into this and found that it doesn't work, I discovered that if you unplug them, plug them back in again, twiddle the connector a bit and repeat, with perseverance it should make a connection. I can only assume some small misalignment or obstacle found its way into the socket during manufacturing. Be aware that because this is a dynamic microphone, if you use it for podcasting you will need to have your mouth very close to it to record a reasonable signal. In my experience some post recording gain increase is always needed in my DAW. Provided you accommodate this, I think the quality is very good using both USB direct to PC and XLR to an audio interface. Note that the little green light doesn't come on when using an XLR connection.

As an aspiring content creator, I sought a quality microphone for streaming on Twitch and making YouTube videos. I was directed towards the SAMSON Q2U Recording and Podcasting Pack as a budget-friendly option, recommended by an experienced voice actor. Although I initially considered the higher-end Shure SM7B, known for its studio-grade recording capabilities, I opted for the SAMSON due to its value proposition.Pros of SAMSON Q2U:Excellent sound quality for its price range.Dynamic cardioid pattern that effectively reduces background noise—ideal for home studios.Affordable, offering significant savings over the Shure SM7B.Dual USB and XLR functionality, with all necessary cables provided.Direct headphone monitoring available.Compatibility with various devices, such as the iPad Pro through an adapter.Although the included stand is basic, it’s a good starting point.Cons of SAMSON Q2U:Best performance requires close proximity; consider investing in an adjustable boom arm.Minor white noise issues with USB connection on PC, though fixable in editing software.The narrow diameter complicates finding a compatible shock mount.Some initial power connectivity issues, requiring re-plugging to resolve.Comparison with Shure SM7B:While the Shure SM7B is a legendary microphone with superior sound isolation and professional quality, its price point is significantly higher and may not include necessary extras like a boom arm, XLR cables, or an interface, which are required for optimal performance. This can greatly increase the overall cost.Conclusion:After using the SAMSON Q2U for my streaming and YouTube projects, I've found it to be an exceptional value, particularly for those just starting out or on a budget. While the Shure SM7B undoubtedly excels in professional settings, the SAMSON Q2U stands out for its affordability, ease of use, and excellent starter kit components. For beginners and intermediate users alike, the SAMSON Q2U offers a compelling package that balances quality and cost effectively.Given my positive experience and the feedback from my audience, I confidently recommend the SAMSON Q2U over the Shure SM7B for those who need a reliable, cost-effective solution without compromising too much on quality. This microphone has not only met but exceeded my expectations, making it a standout choice in its price bracket.