Best Podcast Microphones Under $100

Summary

This video offers a comprehensive guide to selecting the best podcast microphone under $100. The host compares dynamic and condenser microphones, ultimately recommending dynamic mics for their noise reduction capabilities. After eliminating options that are either too expensive or discontinued, the focus narrows to two microphones: Samson Q2U and Audio-Technica ATR2100X. The video evaluates them based on ease of setup, accessories, and audio quality. Despite the ATR2100X's superior stand, the Samson Q2U wins due to its value for money, quality sound, and sturdy build, making it the top choice for beginner podcasters.

Takeaways

• 🎤 The video aims to identify the best podcast microphone under $100.
• 🔊 Dynamic microphones are recommended over condenser mics for most podcasters due to their ability to handle background noise better.
• 🏠 Condenser mics are sensitive to all sounds, including background noise, which is not ideal for home recording setups.
• 🚫 The Blue Yeti, despite its popularity, is not recommended for podcasting due to its condenser nature and susceptibility to background noise.
• 💰 The video eliminates microphones that are not cost-effective for beginners or are no longer available in the market.
• 🔌 Ease of setup is a criterion, with preference given to microphones that have both XLR and USB connectors for direct computer use.
• 🎚️ The Samson Q2U and Audio-Technica ATR2100X are the final two contenders, both being dynamic microphones under $100 with good build quality and accessories.
• 🎁 The ATR2100X comes with more accessories, including two USB cables and a stand, but the stand's quality is questionable.
• 🎵 Audio tests show that both microphones produce similar sound quality, with slight differences that may be subjective to individual preference.
• 🏆 The Samson Q2U is declared the winner due to its lower price, better stand, and comparable sound quality to the ATR2100X.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The main focus of the video is to determine the best podcast microphone under $100.

Why does the presenter recommend dynamic microphones over condenser microphones for podcasting?

The presenter recommends dynamic microphones because they are better at rejecting background noise, which is important for podcasters who often record in non-treated environments like home.

What are the two main types of microphones mentioned in the script?

The two main types of microphones mentioned are dynamic microphones and condenser microphones.

Why is the Blue Yeti microphone not recommended for podcasting in this video?

The Blue Yeti is not recommended because it is a condenser microphone, which tends to pick up a lot of background noise, making it less suitable for home recording environments.

What is the budget constraint for the microphones discussed in the video?

The budget constraint for the microphones is under $100.

What is the third criteria the presenter uses to evaluate the microphones?

The third criteria is ease of setup, including the type of connectors and the necessity for additional equipment like audio interfaces or stands.

Why is the Pod Mic eliminated from consideration despite being a good microphone?

The Pod Mic is eliminated because it only has an XLR connector, which would require the purchase of an audio interface, cables, and potentially a stand, adding extra cost beyond the $100 budget.

Which two microphones are the final contenders after the presenter's evaluations?

The final two microphones are the Samson Q2U and the Audio-Technica ATR2100X.

What are the differences in the included accessories between the Samson Q2U and the Audio-Technica ATR2100X?

The ATR2100X includes two different USB cables (USB-C and USB-A), an XLR cable, and a stand that is criticized for being cheap and prone to breaking. The Samson Q2U includes a single USB-A cable, an XLR cable, and a more robust stand with a foam cover included.

What is the presenter's final recommendation for the best podcast microphone under $100?

The presenter's final recommendation is the Samson Q2U, as it offers good sound quality, better build quality, and more reliable accessories at a lower price point compared to the ATR2100X.