Which Mic is Best? Battle of the USB/XLR Combo Mics (Under $100) for Podcasting & Live Streaming
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- Опубліковано 15 бер 2020
- Which microphone sounds better and comes at the best price? In this video, I'll be putting the Samson Q2U, the Audiotechnica ATR-2100 and the ATR-2100x USB / XLR microphones to the test!
Computer and iPad tests, plus regular distance voice checks, background noise tests, both USB and XLR tests - let's see which one makes the most sense for podcasting and live streaming. Which one would you prefer?
Links to mics below (please note, these are affiliate links I earn a commission from Amazon from):
Samson Q2U: geni.us/samsonq2u
Audiotechnica ATR-2100X: geni.us/atr2100x
Audiotechnica ATR-2100 (discontinued): geni.us/audiotechnica2100
How to record more than one USB mic into a computer: • How to Record 2 USB Mi...
The podcasting kit I recommend: www.kit.co/patflynn
A previous video about comparisons between the ATR-2100X and ATR-2100: • New ATR 2100x USB-C (M...
Any other mics you'd like me to review? Let me know in the chat below!
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I've decided to use my extra time indoors at the moment to finally launch a podcast so I've watched so many of your videos. They are genuinely the only tech / comparison videos I can watch all the way through without getting bored or confused! Big thanks from the UK!
This video is EXACTLY what I was looking for! Thank you so much for creating it.
Thank you for sharing the comparisons, Pat! Keep up the good work!
to think i just recommended the samson q2u to a friend who’s on a budget and wants to begin practicing his vocals. and then you come out with this video! thanks for giving me reassurance that i didn’t make a mistake in my recommendation. much love pat!
Hah! Nice!!
Thank you for this. I found this very helpful. I listened to it in through my headphones. And thanks for the contest, too.
Nice Pat! Liking the Samson. Thanks for the side-by-side comparison. That helps me a lot. Fired up to start up a podcast!
Great vid Pat. Keep driving forward, you’re killing it man.
I am starting planning for my 1st podcast and I am glad I came your way! Also, a give away will be such a great boost to start! Thank you!
Quite impressed with the Q2u, especially the capturing (or lack of) of the background noise. Thanks for the comparisons Pat.
Totally Agree
I love podcasting too! Thanks for testing them all!
I think the Samson Q2U was the best...
I’m glad I snatched the Audio Technica 2100 before it was discontinued. But Samson Q2U has the best accessories.
The Samson sounded brighter and clearer than the rest when using XLR. They were all very close while using USB but to me even though the 2100 was softer it was a bit clear. I’d probably by the Samson though because of the price and accessories. Thanks for this comparison. I nearly bought a neewer or a tonor. You helped me dodge that bullet
This is extremely helpful. Thanks. I'm starting my Podcast and will be buying two of the Samson Q2U mics.
Great video, perfect timing for me. Shame that I cannot seem to find any of the Audio Technica mics here in the UK! Please Audio Technica, gives us these mics across the pond! Keep up the good work Pat 👍🏼
Those graphs are so helpful. Thank you so much.
Both liked the ATR2100 & Q2U, so at the end of the day, I came down to purchasing the Q2U because I do like quality still sounds great from all three mic test.
Few days back I just went ahead purchased the Samson Q2U, this will be my 2nd dynamic Microphone I've owned, speaking of it is coming right to my door tomorrow afternoon which I'll be using for my Weekly Tech Podcast.
I just came over from the PUP Facebook Group where I was told to find this video. Thanks from his video Pat. I am such a 'Slowpoke' when it comes down to ordering things because I spend so much time doing comparisons. I've made my decision.. I will get me 2 of the ATR2100. BTW, I love the video equally for the fun vibe you bring. Thanks again on behalf of me and my other PUP family members who are Slowpoke... it not an entirely bad thing, we just like to spend money once, I GUESS 😀 Gabby
Thanks for another fun video! I liked hearing the differences, and as I continue my own podcast journey, the Samson seems like the best option because it is cheaper. You seem to like the X better, but would you pick the Samson, if it meant using the savings to buy a boom arm or other accessory to improve the podcast experience? Thanks again for providing this content!
Great test - I haven't seen a multi-mic test like this before where they are recording *the exact same thing at the same time*. Well done! I'm a little biased, though because I have an ATR-2100X and I love it. And I've had comments from both other streamers and non-streamers how good it sounds. And this review verifies that - I liked its sound the best. It has a hint of that "broadcast" sound.
And of course, being dynamic mics, you can use them to stream and use speakers instead of headphones! I think a lot of streamers use condenser mics because that's what they get sold and end up using headphones to cut out the audio spill and it is simply not the only way to do things.
great comparison. Really helpful look at these entry level microphones. I think I'd go Q2U for sheer value.
All great mics. Great video Pat. Thanks 💪🏾
Thanks Pat for this information. I haven’t purchased my equipment as of yet so watching this was a big help. Can you explain the different USB ports though? I don’t get what the difference is between them and why they are important.
Thanks. Great comparison, love the simultaneous recording - which kind of gets to the point.. faster? Just works well.
Overall, like some of the commenters here, I like the Q2U, really seems like the best value, love the dual connections.
I think you helped me make up my mind here. Very cool.
Cheers, Pat. Thanks again - and all the best from Down Under 👍
Yes, Great information. I, also, will be replacing my Blue Yeti with the Samson Q2U. Thanks for the comparison.
Thanks bro I’m starting a channel and just found this video, I needed it, liked and subscribed
I actually have 2 Q2U's sitting in my Amazon cart now. Thanks for the review/comparison.
Mine too
Listening to this while doing something else (not watching the video or knowing which microphone it was) the Samson to me has the superior sound especially in the warmth of your voice.
Thanks a lot for the much needed comparison of all 3 of them!
agree, q2u has a WAY better sound, especially compared to the X. First test, the "thanks for joining TODAY" part sounded super weirdly-compressed on both ATRs
I feel like the 1200x sounds like it’s meant for informational and formal\ serious stuff. It sounds a little muffled. And the Q2U sounds more lively like it’s for more fun and fast stuff like us. I think the Samson Q2U is perfect for our content.
I’m an adjunct professor and I record a lot of lectures for online classes. I’ve been using a Blue Yeti snowball and haven’t been super impressed. Thanks for the review! I am going to start looking for a good deal on the Samsung. We all appreciate you Pat!
I feel when I close my eyes the 2100x seemed best, but the Q2U is so close it's definitely the best value.
I own the ATR2100 and I like its versatility eg. USB or XLR. I was impressed with the Samson. Lot of bang for the buck in that microphone. In general I prefer using XLR, and I use an audio interface/preamp. My day-to-day microphone in my home office is an Electro Voice RE320.
Thanks man! Been inspired to take the jump by Team Flynn and am confident I’m buying the right gear now.
Thanks for this content! I will be starting online content soon and value is very important.
I think the Q2U is the best bang for the buck too! Thanks for the review, Pat. Always can count on you!
I bought the Q2U for my daughter. It sounds great, the stand is good, also get foam windshield/popfilter in the box.
I think the 2100x sounds better maybe due to increased bit depth of the converter? All three are great mics and given listeners consume on different platforms phones and headphones I think the differences are very small and only noticeable on a direct swap test like this.
Awesome video thanks Pat
I liked the Samson Q2U. I loved your honest review.
Awesome, this is a great comparison!
The Samson sounded cold and professional and was really preferred until it picked up background vocals. Thank you so much for this review and showing us all how to save some cash.
I appreciated this comparison. I do use a Yeti for livestream, I like that I can turn my head and still be heard, and that I don't have to be so close, perfect for the way I'm using it, but I'm so glad I bought the ATR2100x, although that Samsung sounds great!
Samson*
I really needed this video, my microphone at the moment is a 3 year+ old hyperx quadcast thats pretty much broken. So i am on the look for a new microphone and i think the Samson Q2U stood out to me the most. I am planning on using it for content creation and talking to people on discord or in games.
Thanks Pat keep rocking
Great video! Love what you do from all the way in Oz 👏👌
Nice review. It really helps us save from testing them on our own.
Thanks for the info. I am going to review your videos to see if you have put something out on how to do a multi view with 2 people when doing an interview on UA-cam!
Hey, thanks for the content, very useful. By the way, this small circular pop filter, send the link to buy it, please. Thanks again.
Thanks a lot for explaining and comparing them in details for better clarity and understanding. I would like to know that whether these usb/XLR dynamic mics can be connected via otg to a smart phone type c or any other port for mobile recording or any live streaming sessions. ? Or shall I opt for usb condenser mic instead, for plug and play feature on any smart phones for better audio quality recording and live streaming sessions.
I notice you have ferrite beads on all the USB cables. I was podcasting for five years before I learned that trick. It really helps!
Thanks for the video, Pat! I could really use a new mic!!
I feel the Samson was the best - this side by side comparison was a really useful!!
Wow ,this was super helpful ...I now know which Microphone I'm going to get ..as always Thanks Pat👍. I wish the Samson q2 was 60 bucks where I live,it's 90 bucks in Canada ☹😕..still cheaper though
Hi Pat, great video. I noticed you're using pop filters for both the ATRs and a cover for the Samson, why is this? Thank you!
I don't have a new mac, so still on regular USB, so I'm quite convinced to buy Samson Q2U :)
Hey Pat, I thought this video was really useful, thanks! Can you record a video on what the camera and mic attached to your camera look like and how they are set up when you're recording videos like this? (Or refer me to the video if you already have one that shows it?)
I have several 2100’s and have always heard the q2u was basically the same mic but for me the q2u is clearly the better mic for the money
Thanks man. Good stuff! One thing... These are actually handheld I wish you could have tested handling noise...
Nice test. I’ve never heard of the Samsung when I bought our 2 ATR 2100s. Listening to this, and because of the price, I prolly would’ve went with 2 of those.
The Samson Q2U sounded best to me. It (and the ATR-2100x) seem susceptible to plossives, but a good pop-filter and good mic technique when using the mic should resolve that. I'm glad you mentioned the quality (or lack thereof) of the stands. The adjustable height will make the Q2U stand will be helpful if I decide to use this mic as part of a low-cost kit to ship to a guest prior to an interview. Thanks for a good comparison.
BTW - I'm not a fan of Blue Yeti's either!
Thank Y🙃u so much for the content. ..I ve watched a few recently and yours I will say has made a difference in my deciding which mic to go with. I came to learn about the Samsung Q2U, to begin to do Voice acting, over, etc. Ive been told I should so I hope the Q2U will be a good fit for me (on a budget getting started)
Thx again! Tho I'm 2yrs plus late for the giveaway 🤦🏻♀️, You've gained a new subscriber none the less❣ Take care✌🏽💞
Q2U all the way!! Good presentation too by the way, keep up the good work :)
I’m quite surprised how does Samson sounds. Thanks for that test.
Patt, I have the Samson Q2U. It always sounded better to me than the ATR-2100 and was cheaper! To me, it has more boost on the low end compared to the Audiotechnica.
I got the Samson Q2U, now I'm going for the ATR2100x, they're great!!!!
I did precisely the same. But, when recording an interview, it is good practice to use the same brand. Last time, I set up Q2U for my guest and ATR2100x for me. The bleeding from ATR was annoying. I will leave ATR for guests and Q2U for me next time since I will be quiet most of it.
To you recommend a pop filter and windscreen when using Samson or it's not necessary?
Hey Pat, Lovely video, thanks! I see a blank page at the podcasting kit link...wondering if its just me...
i like how you've set up the atr 2100. Do you mind sharing links to the boom arm, shockmount and pop filter ?
I actually own the Samsung Q2U and i love it. I bought for under $70. I just purchased the Audio Technica R 2100 for under $25 and I am waiting for it to arrive in the mail to test.
I use the ATR 2100x and it sound good, but the Samson Q20 however sounds warmer and I like it!
I really like the Q2U sound, I prefer the voice sounds like you were in a radio station. I'm wondering if you can get that effect in Audacity.
What mic holder and wind screen are you using on the ATR-2100???
🎤 The samsung sounds pretty good. I’m replacing my blue yeti 🎙, like you said, nice name, but it really picks up a lot of background noise, from keyboard noise to the fan of my computer. It looks really nice though :)
Thanks for sharing your knowledge!!! 🙏🏽🙏🏽
The Samson, at least in these tests, sounds darn near identical to the 2100x. I wouldn't be surprised if they were identical internal circuitry and capsule (AT for both). There are small differences between the x and the Samson but I think to fully discern response and self noise you'd need to do some track flipping and summing to compare what's left. I suspect a good chunk of sonic difference is down to the internal foam construct in the mic capsule basket and the quality of the ADC in the USB interface.
Both the 2100x and Q2U are as rare as rocking horse poop in the UK now - possibly dual issue of COVID WFH demand and discontinued lines - Thomann was offering 'preorders' for the Audio-Technica and I hopefully found a stockist of a single Q2U, I've ordered both and I'll be very interested to hear how they sound in my own tests.
Agreed, so hard to find one. Crazy
@@h.a.s.42 I eventually managed to backorder one of each, and they are basically identical, aside from very minor differences in the shell and accessories. I also tested both connected by USB into my Samsung S9 and while both worked, interestingly the Audio Technica exhibited some very minor digital clicking while signal level was present. I need to test both on a computer as that might just be a side-effect of the AT with my Android device (the Samson didn't sound like it had the same issue when I tested a couple of weeks prior).
I ended up buying the AT from Thomann and the Samson from Viking Direct, though they're also sporadically available on Amazon.
Thanks so much for the video Pat, it's made me decide on the Samson Q2U XLR. My podcast is called CHECK YOUR HEAD: Mental Help for Musicians and I would be soooo excited to win the Samson microphone. I need an extra one for interviewing guests!! Thanks Pat for all that you do for us podcasters. - Mari
Lol i love the x-s taped-up stand xD
Just watched the video where it deserved that.
I like the "X", but bang for the buck the "Q" like you said. I listened to the video w/o watching and the X and Q were pretty much identical. Time to retire the Blue Yeti...
I liked this a lot, and I’d purchase a Samson I think, as Id have more of a budget for a pop filter, a table stand, and shock mount
if both the same price, which one you choose, thanks for the great video
Great video.
I am looking to upgrade but work in an environment where I can't eliminate some pesky background noise. Also, I have a habit of drifting back from the mic to more like 18-24 inches. Would any of these be better than the others in that trouble scenario?
Great video as always. I'm going to make room on my desk for the mic I'm going to win. :)
In my opinion that Samson was best. Not sure if I have hearing problems or what :D But, yes, that was the best of these. Thank you for reviewing affordable options too! :)
Great video Pat and actually really helpful now! Thank you.
There's a Sagg dynamic USB that's a little less and seems good quality too. No XLR though. Worth a look given you're doing budget stuff here?
What shock mount and pop filter is that for the atr 2100? looks amazing!
I am ready to start a podcast!!
I can't decide between ATR2100X - Samson Q2U, ATR2100X better gain, Q2U better noise rejection - and what is better accessories It's the same, only pop-filter missing - and btw you are very likeable :)
Huh it seems I will just stick with my Samson Q2U 🥰 The only thing is I wonder how you record without editing the audio? I always have noises that I need to edit the audio to remove background noise. Any suggestion? Thanks.
try RTX Voice (works on GTX too:) or standalone VST plugin reafr with OBS
Cool pop filters...got links?
I’m too late to win the q2u; but thank you for helping me decide which one to buy 🥰
I'm sad the 2100 is discontinued. I guess I'll be eyeing the Samson Q2U in its absence.
I think I liked the new X model the best, but not when in front. I guess the input is a bit hot. I am curious how it would sound when really close to the mouth.
Samson q2u is the best of these three microphones to sing a song? Thanx
I LIKE THE Q2U LOVING IT ❤️
The Audiotechnica ATR-2100X was best, but the Samson Q2U is not far behind.
I am going for the samson
the ATR2100x is a condenser microphone?
I am your fan now
The was definitely helpful
I like the Q2U sound best anyway!