When we have talked about podcasting we usually make compilations with the most interesting microphones regardless of whether they are with XLR or USB connection. But today we are going to focus on those who offer the latter, because for many it is the easiest way to start recording what they want. And because more and more is recorded in mobility, so loading with external sound interfaces is not comfortable.
Why a USB microphone instead of XLR
Choosing micro USB instead of XLR does not imply worse sound quality. It is true that the previews of any external USB interface of basic-medium range usually give better performance and more possibility for the future. For example, any of the Focusrite interfaces allow you to gradually improve your productions just by changing the microphone.
This does not happen with USB microphones , and sometimes the price of a USB microphone is very similar to that of an external interface and a XLR micro. But no matter, the question why you choose USB microphones is none other than convenience.
Taking out the microphone and connecting directly to the computer through a USB port is what has allowed phenomena such as podcasting to grow as it has done these years ago. Because anyone could start recording without having much knowledge in audio subjects. And now, in addition, those same USB microphones can be easily connected to a smartphone or tablet to record mobility, hangouts, etc.
So, knowing that there is no perfect and universal option for everyone, if you bet on USB microphones it is because you are clear: you want simplicity first and foremost . And that’s why this compilation, so that in addition to this advantage you don’t have to sacrifice a good audio quality.
The most recommended USB microphones in 2020
We are not going to fool ourselves, aesthetics is a factor that for many is still important when choosing any technology product. Even so, it is important that you do not get carried away either because of that or because it is the microphone you see most on those YouTube channels you follow or because many pages recommend it.
We say this because the Blue Yeti is a good USB microphone, but it is not for everyone. Being a condenser, it is very susceptible to pick up any noise around it despite the different patterns it offers. And that is why dynamic microphones are a better option for 99% of users . Even more if you plan to take it from one place to another and record almost anywhere.
That said, our most interesting USB microphone recommendations of this 2020 (at least for now) is as follows:
Samson Q2U
Bet safe, with a good price and the option to monitor the audio by incorporating headphone output. It is worth every euro invested in it. And by the way, although we already say that we are not going to focus on it, it also has an XLR connection option.
Samson C01U
Condenser microphone that, like any other similar, must be well controlled so that the surrounding noises get in while we record. Or worse, I got too much reverberation in the recording. Otherwise, its performance is good and also offers headphone output.
Rode NT USB
Rode USB microphone, attractive design, sound quality, headphone output for audio monitoring and the most striking, includes an antipop filter. The latter is great, because you are not going to have to buy anything to avoid those explosive syllables.
And finally, two microphones that are yet to reach the market since they were presented recently. The first is the Samson Q9U and the second is the Audio Technia ATR2100x-USB. These two microphones offer very interesting features and all the advantages that the USB C connector currently offers.
By the way, do not forget that if you are going to record podcast, headphones are necessary and if you want studio models you should see this video with three proposals that we analyze here.
