for being a little more expensive than a blue snowball the quality and stuff you can do with it are crazy, i’ve had mine for 3 years and it still works
I’ve had mine for years. Absolutely love it for podcast interviews using iPhone 14. I record using voice memos app and use clean up options in the app during post. Super easy, use USB plus iPhone dongle, sounds amazingly clean. If you’re not a sound engineer this is the mic for your podcast interviews.
Wow, I did not expect you do re-do this, thanks1 This is my backup mic and seems to have fantastic side rejection compared to the SM58. Now I'll watch and see what you found.
IMO something like the Q2u is all most content creators will ever need. It's super cheap, plug and play, and sounds good enough that nobody is ever going to complain about your audio quality. Unless you're doing something specifically audio-centric like music or podcasting, or if you wanna boost your over-all production value beyond that of a typical UA-cam video, you shouldn't ever have to upgrade.
I've had this mic for over 3 years thanks to your previous recommendation, and I'm so glad you re-reviewed it for people like me who are thinking about upgrading or adding instrumental recording mics to their setup!
Great review. One of my not-very-secret sauce microphones for electric guitar: the Samson CO1 makes everything sound better (inaccurate, colored, in a useful way) so I would never disregard a Samson product from delivering potentially awesome results.
@@Podcastage What would you suggest for someone who wants to make UA-cam tutorials. I don't care for streaming right now. Just UA-cam videos for now. My budget is $200
I bought the samson q2u a few years ago after watching one of your reviews and it's still working amazing. Honestly don't see myself ever needing another mic
I did the same about a year ago and have been periodically listening to podcastage since. I'm thinking of getting the mic a new taller stand to reward it for being a good mic.
if I have the mic on its stand and its on the left of me so not in front of me(cuz it blocks view while gaming) is it still good enough then or do I really need to find a way to have it in front of me, so what im saying is; if I have it right next to the left side of the keyboard on the desk, deos it still work well?
Q2U squad here:) I've had it for years the only issues you will eventually experience is that the switch contacts get worn so it stays unmuted and the led fails (becomes very dim). I've been using it for many many gaming sessions:)
if I have the mic on its stand and its on the left of me so not in front of me(cuz it blocks view while gaming) is it still good enough then or do I really need to find a way to have it in front of me, so what im saying is; if I have it right next to the left side of the keyboard on the desk, deos it still work well?
@@ExitiumD yes you can, i did bought one with it once i first got it but i found much better to use the desk stand supplied with it; the boom arm it's a lot more hassle to setup without blocking you
I think I’m the exception to the rule but my hardly used Q2u died last week during a comparison video. The USB port went out which was a total bummer. Beyond that, this is such a great budget mic.
You've really convinced me that this is the very best choice for a value mic under $100! 😃 Love your videos. Been hunting down and shopping around to decide which mic I'd want to get for 1-1.5 year. Your videos are incredibly in depth and I really appreciate your efforts and many, many comparisons!! 👏 (I let the ads play for your pay. ;) ) Keep on keeping on man.
I'm still happy with my choice of the SE Electronics V7 based on your reviews. Sounds really natural and I don't have the feeling that I urgently need to EQ it.
That Samson sounds great for what it is. Awesome backup mic. What I want to see next is Sennheiser e935 re-review cause I want to buy it as a main vocal mic and I would appreciate a good review and comparison to other vocal mics.
One of the in-depth review of microphone out there and gave a me a good idea of what to buy and this is the one for me Got this mic about $40 only which is a nice catch!
@@alexboegilini6135 I use it for this and to record. Clear balanced sound. Does pick up only little: Barely anything unless you point it towards the source.
Great follow-up review (or update or whatever we want to call it!). The handling noise is terrible, but I love my Q2U (bought on your recommendation years ago). I just avoid touching the mic and never use the on/off switch for mute. Also, I keep the windscreen on it always for those terrible plosives. (I almost brought you pizza pronto just to shut you up.) These are easy fixes depending on your usage. Since I'm basically using it for meetings and remote presentations, it's perfect. I have the old Q2U and I admit it does sound more harsh than this updated version. For those of you who had weird issues with the old Q2U over USB on Windows, the Samson website has a firmware update that should clean that right up. The box throw was at best passable.
I love your videos, are pretty useful, I'm already watch around 30 reviews by now, you are my first option for every each microphone i want to buy it. And you are really nice, fun and handsome. hugs from Venezuela.
Nice review 👏 I just got my Samson Q2U yesterday. One thing you may want to showcase is how to tweak the audio settings, e.g. in OBS, to reduce noise, etc. Liked/subscribed. Thanks
Easy mic to like. Bought mine for £45 a year ago (ish) Spent £60 on a second hand mic stand for it (PSA1) Used it every day for gaming/discord since and not had an issue. Better mic than most the people I game with.
I’ve already watched like half of all your videos, but this one I’m watching for the third time! You’re a great mentor, taught me a lot of things and made my ear way more sensible, so when I had a chance to put my voice on Neumann U67 vintage two weeks ago I was ready to fully embrace it incredible power! That being said, the reason I came here for the third time is I pretty like the sound of it at this price point, but when I searched it online, but in Italy you’ll find it only at 100€, while, for example, AT2100X you can find at 60€. Do you think that in this case AT is more appealing?
I used this one after your review and I can say it was excellent. Recently I replaced it by the new Rode Videomic 2 cause I wanted to remove the boom arm from my desk. I can say that the Samsom Q2U sounded better, and sure it was closer to my mouth. Anyway, for for me, having the mic out of my face feels better and refreshed now. Still I cannot recommend this mic enough. Very good.
past me was looking out for future me. I bought this mic as a bundle with podtrak because it was on-sale 2 years ago only to move and forget about it in storage. I had to look up this video to learn how to use it - long story short, this sounded much better than expected 😅
if I have the mic on its stand and its on the left of me so not in front of me(cuz it blocks view while gaming) is it still good enough then or do I really need to find a way to have it in front of me, so what im saying is; if I have it right next to the left side of the keyboard on the desk, deos it still work well?
@@ExitiumD the q2u, being a directional dynamic, benefits from being aimed at your mouth. I would recommend at least aimed at an angle shallower than 90 degrees. So from the front, not the total side.
@@mbk337 So what you mean is , it doesnt matter if its on the side as long as I aim the actual mic towards the direction of my mouth as good as possible, right?
@@ExitiumD yes, and if you have it on your desk, with the included stand, right next to your keyboard, you might get a bit of clacking into the mic. This is especially true if it is behind the keyboard or if it is off axis to it.
Definitly a difference between XLR and USB connection. The XLR sounded a bit more body, probably the better DAC’s in the Focusrite. The difference between this unit and your old one is surprising, your old unit sounded a lot more boosted in the treble. I am still amazed by the smooth sound of the SE Electronics V7, it is definitly the best sounding to me. I do not include the Neumann, that is a bit unfair. The Samson is €99,- in Europe, so pricewise it is a lot worse, the V7 or an Rode M1 are cheaper, but they need an interface off course.
i watched so many of your videos a few months ago when i was searching for my first xlr mic. I landed on a q2u and love it. i'm a small streamer and the quality i get out of it is amazing.
Sounds amazing for the price. Definitely better with XLR, the USB connection sounds like it cuts lower frequencies. Also I thought it sounded pretty cool when you cupped and muffled the microphone too(not _good_ but it sounded pretty cool).
Mannn, amazing video! I would like to buy a good cost-effective microphone to record on the streets, interviewing people. Which would you recommend? I would love it to be this one, but when you handle it I feel like it's going to make a lot of noise
The XLR is just EVER so slightly better had a bit more body and less high end but it's somewhat difficult to notice the difference it's inconsequential wont really matter especially to most people but the difference is there.
I've been using my Samson Q2u for years after being recommended it from this very channel. It's done a lot of good for me with podcasting and streaming, though I've been thinking of upgrading. Though I'm not really sure of what should be a good one up on this one (note my room is not soundproofed but is carpeted and fairly small in space), so any recommendations for an upgrade would be welcomed.
The first thing is if you can upgrade your room, that would be a good step. If not, i suggest trying to test a few different microphones at say a Guitar Center to see which one gives a tone that's pleasing to you. If you can't do that, I believe sweetwater has a pretty good return policy *don't quote me on that*
I vote for a Lander Says Podcast episode four feet from the mic for the whole show. On a serious note, thank you for this video. Looking to upgrade a cheap mic that had an on off button and was looking at the Shure SM58. I like that this has the on off button as it will be used for work (USB side) and for my YT videos (XLR).
Great mic, i don’t see much difference with the original. Hey dude, do you have a mic recommendation for low voice/Baritone voice?. Thanks, love your reviews👏🏼👏🏼.
Thanks for the interesting review. You show a totally black microphone, while everywhere in stores I see a gray body with a silver mesh. Are these different versions of microphones? Even your other video has a gray microphone. I don't understand are the same things or not?
I use this for work meetings. Has great rejection over your usual omni-directional mics from headsets and webcams. Cheap, all-in-one, and plug and play. However, I found the tripod doesn't give me much options for proper placement, and eliminating the tripod increased noise from shocks and bumps. Invested on a Samson shock mount for the Q2U and fixed that issue. That's a must-have. Also got a decent pop filter, it's a nice-to-have thing, but not necessary if you point your mic at the corner of your mouth at an angle. (Learned from you too)
Once again, great review Bandrew. Silly A$$ question, and I could probably search for and find the answer but...... Could I use this on an Android smartphone like a Pixel-4XL?
Just a little tip for anyone trying to save money, the silver q2u is $50 compared to the gray and black q2u for $70 so if looks aren’t a huge concern I’d just save the $20
i still remember recommending this to a friend. He still has it and uses it to this day for his streams now. Your reviews helped out a lot so thanks Bandrew. Do you have the BEACN mic or the recent Universal Audio mics on your review list?
I just noticed that when you did the treated vs. untreated room test that the On/Off LED blinked RED every time you clapped. Does the Q2U have some kind of peak meter? Interesting.
Hey! I would like you to check out the Boya brand! They make some surprising microphones, especially for their price. Build quality and performance is superb for the price. I own a Boya BYM1 lav, a Boya BYMM1 (its like a dslr supercardioid mic) and a Boya BYM1000, an XLR condenser mic that i got for 90 usd, and it performs so well, especially against my old behringer C1. Would love to see your take on the brand! They also make an audio interface and other stuff for really cheap!
Also! For 90 usd, the Boya BYM1000 came with a shockmount, and a pop filter! It has a high pass filter switch, 3 different polar patterns (omni, cardioid and figure 8), and a -10db pad! All metal housing, and to be honest, its very quiet! I was lucky that it fits my voice well!
The SM2u brings out a low-mid resonance in your voice that grates on me a bit fwiw. Many of the others are better that regard, with the SM7 and the Neumann doing particularly well (as they should). It's not bad per se, it just brings out something that sounds better to me when smoothed out a bit. And yeah, the sibilance isn't great. I could tell it had a sizzly high end when compared to SM58 - it was right up there with the Shure.
I remember this mic coming in second next to the Samson C01U Pro in your best budget USB microphone video. I was just wondering if you think that opinion still stands? Maybe it'd be nice if we saw a review of the Samson C01U pro with your modern tests :)
This mic has been awesome, but what would you recommend as an upgrade? I have had this mic for awhile and getting the itch to upgrade for no reason lol
Still sounds good! When I was getting started, I preferred it over the ATR2100 because I found (in Windows anyway) that the Q2U was louder, which I figured was better. I thought it had a better low-end too.
I was looking for this sort of comment! A year later, in Italy, you’ll barely find Q2U at 100€, while AT2100X is at 60€. Though Q2U sounds tiny tiny slightly better for my ear, I think at this price situation AT wins
There is another use case for simultaneous XLR+USB: XLR so you can use a mixer (e.g. Yamaha AG03) for streaming, but also USB so you can stream a game that uses voice to only receive microphone input instead of the complete stream as input (e.g. Phasmophobia uses voice recognition when you talk to a ghost).
Hey man thanks for all the reviews! Question… How do i go about if i want to purchase an xlr mic but do not want to spend hundreds of dollars on an actual audio interface? Are there cheap options to make the xlr mic working as it should? are there any cheap alternatives that only works to get the mic up and running without any other extra things on it? I would much rather purchase some type of small device that is used to power the mic up for cheap than going out to buy a go xlr or any other interface👍🏽
I just buy Q2U it after listening couple of your reviews. I really appreciate your review I buy a boom arm to I use it on windows 10 and I try xlr and usb I setup the mic in windows to get max sound but is still not loud enough:-( If I’m at 2-4 inch the sound is just ok but never really go upper the 16% What you suggest ? By the way I do mostly video conferences and video training.
Olá, sou Brasileiro e comprei o Mic por recomendação sua! Comprei no Aliexpress. Muito obrigado por sua recomendação, estou com ele a 1 ano e meio, muito obrigado, é um microfone excelente! Um abraço acalorado e um beijo!🇧🇷🇺🇲 Thank you!❤️
your first q2u review made me by the q2u and am thinking now to finally upgrade to a focusrite too. but now not 100% sure if i need to. i was thinking if i enable the air circuit on it it would make the q2u sound a better and then i'd also have an XLR interface I can use and eventually get a better mic too.
I bought the very same bundle last month but it came with a gunmetal/silver(like your 2015 one)(i wish it was blackout) Did you choose a black one? Or its a weird luck of the draw? No mention of black option on samson's website
Still holds up. Talk about built like a tank
Sir, for low to mid voice..
What recomended microphone ?
I have nt1 but, i dont like it, with low voice..
How about at875r ???
Mine just stopped working after 2 years :0 so yea not really built like a tank
@@mavcly Monday production maybe.
for being a little more expensive than a blue snowball the quality and stuff you can do with it are crazy, i’ve had mine for 3 years and it still works
I’ve had mine for years. Absolutely love it for podcast interviews using iPhone 14. I record using voice memos app and use clean up options in the app during post. Super easy, use USB plus iPhone dongle, sounds amazingly clean. If you’re not a sound engineer this is the mic for your podcast interviews.
Of all the mic reviewers out there, yours is the most comprehensive fun and spot on reviews of them all.
Man... your reviews of mics are hands down the BEST I've found on UA-cam. Thank you!!
Thanks for the great reviews always.
Wow, I did not expect you do re-do this, thanks1 This is my backup mic and seems to have fantastic side rejection compared to the SM58. Now I'll watch and see what you found.
is this microphone suitable for loud karaoke ? ( loud music nearby )
IMO something like the Q2u is all most content creators will ever need. It's super cheap, plug and play, and sounds good enough that nobody is ever going to complain about your audio quality.
Unless you're doing something specifically audio-centric like music or podcasting, or if you wanna boost your over-all production value beyond that of a typical UA-cam video, you shouldn't ever have to upgrade.
Danke!
I've had this mic for over 3 years thanks to your previous recommendation, and I'm so glad you re-reviewed it for people like me who are thinking about upgrading or adding instrumental recording mics to their setup!
is this microphone suitable for loud karaoke ? ( loud music nearby )
Great review. One of my not-very-secret sauce microphones for electric guitar: the Samson CO1 makes everything sound better (inaccurate, colored, in a useful way) so I would never disregard a Samson product from delivering potentially awesome results.
Been using this mic for a couple years now. Loving every second of it, and don't see myself changing mics for awhile
is this microphone suitable for loud karaoke ? ( loud music nearby )
I always liked how it sounded for the money but the new Q2U sounds quite a bit better than the original one imo, seems like the top end is less harsh
Agreed. I have no way of knowing if that was an actual change of the manufacturing or if it was me abusing the mic impacted it.
@@Podcastage It is an actual change. Your abusing is right.
@@Podcastage What would you suggest for someone who wants to make UA-cam tutorials. I don't care for streaming right now. Just UA-cam videos for now. My budget is $200
I have the old Q2U and I have to agree, it sounds harsher. $50 for this new one is a steal!
I also think the new version of Q2U has better sound than the old one!
Is the link in the video description selling the new version?
I bought the samson q2u a few years ago after watching one of your reviews and it's still working amazing. Honestly don't see myself ever needing another mic
Same here! Great experience so far! Excellent mic
I did the same about a year ago and have been periodically listening to podcastage since. I'm thinking of getting the mic a new taller stand to reward it for being a good mic.
is this microphone suitable for loud karaoke ? ( loud music nearby )
Does it work fine in Windows?
@@habibullahsamander2798 yeah it works. just switch your input in the settings
Got the old Q2U thanks to you and am watching this video like a proud dad.
You uploaded this an hour after I got mine! Im super happy with it thus far for sure
if I have the mic on its stand and its on the left of me so not in front of me(cuz it blocks view while gaming) is it still good enough then or do I really need to find a way to have it in front of me, so what im saying is; if I have it right next to the left side of the keyboard on the desk, deos it still work well?
Just coming back to reassure what I already said: its amazing and I am so glad I listened to Papa Podcastage on this one.
Glad you're still liken it man. happy recording.
Q2U squad here:) I've had it for years the only issues you will eventually experience is that the switch contacts get worn so it stays unmuted and the led fails (becomes very dim). I've been using it for many many gaming sessions:)
if I have the mic on its stand and its on the left of me so not in front of me(cuz it blocks view while gaming) is it still good enough then or do I really need to find a way to have it in front of me, so what im saying is; if I have it right next to the left side of the keyboard on the desk, deos it still work well?
@@ExitiumDwell i have it in front of me with no extension and it doesn't block my view, the mic needs to sit close to your mouth as it's a dynamic one
@@St0RM33 Can this also be put on a boomarm?
@@ExitiumD yes you can, i did bought one with it once i first got it but i found much better to use the desk stand supplied with it; the boom arm it's a lot more hassle to setup without blocking you
I was just searching for microphones because why not, but the sheer quality of this video made me subscribe instantly. Love the work you put into this
Thanks for the review man. Was looking for a cheap, better mic for my recording. I will definitely choose samson q2u.
I really like your re-reviews!
I think I’m the exception to the rule but my hardly used Q2u died last week during a comparison video. The USB port went out which was a total bummer. Beyond that, this is such a great budget mic.
is this microphone suitable for loud karaoke ? ( loud music nearby )
Today has been amazing in terms of new uploads. Thank you for making today better
You've really convinced me that this is the very best choice for a value mic under $100! 😃 Love your videos. Been hunting down and shopping around to decide which mic I'd want to get for 1-1.5 year. Your videos are incredibly in depth and I really appreciate your efforts and many, many comparisons!! 👏
(I let the ads play for your pay. ;) )
Keep on keeping on man.
You're lucky, cuz in my country it's sold for $150 😐
I'm sold since the 3rd minute of this review!!! Loved it
Great rereview...i bought this microphone to podcast on the road in my truck based of your review ^^
I'm still happy with my choice of the SE Electronics V7 based on your reviews. Sounds really natural and I don't have the feeling that I urgently need to EQ it.
The V7 is a special one. I love that mic.
That Samson sounds great for what it is. Awesome backup mic.
What I want to see next is Sennheiser e935 re-review cause I want to buy it as a main vocal mic and I would appreciate a good review and comparison to other vocal mics.
One of the in-depth review of microphone out there and gave a me a good idea of what to buy and this is the one for me
Got this mic about $40 only which is a nice catch!
I love this mic! I have 2 of them and they are perfect starter mics for content creation!
Not starter mics!
is this microphone suitable for loud karaoke ? ( loud music nearby )
@@alexboegilini6135 I use it for this and to record. Clear balanced sound. Does pick up only little: Barely anything unless you point it towards the source.
Waiting for the DynaCaster! Why? Because you make the best microphon review/test on youtube. And I love the V7. Great review like allways.
Not enough ppl talk about the plosive benefit of leaving the gap when you apply the windscreen. I did a whole video about it on my channel. Great job.
Great follow-up review (or update or whatever we want to call it!). The handling noise is terrible, but I love my Q2U (bought on your recommendation years ago). I just avoid touching the mic and never use the on/off switch for mute. Also, I keep the windscreen on it always for those terrible plosives. (I almost brought you pizza pronto just to shut you up.) These are easy fixes depending on your usage. Since I'm basically using it for meetings and remote presentations, it's perfect.
I have the old Q2U and I admit it does sound more harsh than this updated version.
For those of you who had weird issues with the old Q2U over USB on Windows, the Samson website has a firmware update that should clean that right up.
The box throw was at best passable.
How do you tell if you have the old or new one?
@@zualo I think the old one is a lighter grey. Check the video, there is a comparison.
is this microphone suitable for loud karaoke ? ( loud music nearby )
And this is my most favourite microphone! Thanks for the re-review!
I love your videos, are pretty useful, I'm already watch around 30 reviews by now, you are my first option for every each microphone i want to buy it. And you are really nice, fun and handsome. hugs from Venezuela.
Thank you for the kind words Luis, that really means a lot. Best of luck on the recording.
Forgot how much I loved this channel
Nice review 👏 I just got my Samson Q2U yesterday. One thing you may want to showcase is how to tweak the audio settings, e.g. in OBS, to reduce noise, etc. Liked/subscribed. Thanks
is this microphone suitable for loud karaoke ? ( loud music nearby )
Easy mic to like.
Bought mine for £45 a year ago (ish)
Spent £60 on a second hand mic stand for it (PSA1)
Used it every day for gaming/discord since and not had an issue.
Better mic than most the people I game with.
The Q2U is actually fairly close to the sound of a V7 in this comparison. Interesting seeing the price difference.
I’ve already watched like half of all your videos, but this one I’m watching for the third time! You’re a great mentor, taught me a lot of things and made my ear way more sensible, so when I had a chance to put my voice on Neumann U67 vintage two weeks ago I was ready to fully embrace it incredible power!
That being said, the reason I came here for the third time is I pretty like the sound of it at this price point, but when I searched it online, but in Italy you’ll find it only at 100€, while, for example, AT2100X you can find at 60€. Do you think that in this case AT is more appealing?
The XLR signal sounded less sibilant. Great review.
I've had the q2u for a few years now and it's still Awesome!!!
My go to remote kit mic for the entire pandemic. Love it.
I used this one after your review and I can say it was excellent. Recently I replaced it by the new Rode Videomic 2 cause I wanted to remove the boom arm from my desk. I can say that the Samsom Q2U sounded better, and sure it was closer to my mouth.
Anyway, for for me, having the mic out of my face feels better and refreshed now.
Still I cannot recommend this mic enough. Very good.
is this microphone suitable for loud karaoke ? ( loud music nearby )
is this microphone suitable for loud karaoke ? ( loud music nearby )
@@alexboegilini6135 Never tried it. I was just using it in my quiet desk :)
Ive had 2 of those mics fail.......I love the mic but I'm a bit gun shy to buy another.
Do u know if it can be hooked up to a boomarm? like rode psa1 for example
Mine just failed after 5 years. Going with a Shure SM58 now
Great video! Thanks for all the comparisons!
Your reviews are superb. Thank you so much.
I got a Q2U to put in my go bag. It sounds great and an easy setup. Hard to beat for the money
past me was looking out for future me. I bought this mic as a bundle with podtrak because it was on-sale 2 years ago only to move and forget about it in storage. I had to look up this video to learn how to use it - long story short, this sounded much better than expected 😅
Still using my Q2U to this day, after you recommended it. I really love the low-end on this thing... helps hide the imperfections in my dumb voice.
if I have the mic on its stand and its on the left of me so not in front of me(cuz it blocks view while gaming) is it still good enough then or do I really need to find a way to have it in front of me, so what im saying is; if I have it right next to the left side of the keyboard on the desk, deos it still work well?
@@ExitiumD the q2u, being a directional dynamic, benefits from being aimed at your mouth. I would recommend at least aimed at an angle shallower than 90 degrees. So from the front, not the total side.
@@mbk337 So what you mean is , it doesnt matter if its on the side as long as I aim the actual mic towards the direction of my mouth as good as possible, right?
@@ExitiumD yes, and if you have it on your desk, with the included stand, right next to your keyboard, you might get a bit of clacking into the mic. This is especially true if it is behind the keyboard or if it is off axis to it.
@@mbk337 Can this also be put on a boomarm? =)
Definitly a difference between XLR and USB connection. The XLR sounded a bit more body, probably the better DAC’s in the Focusrite. The difference between this unit and your old one is surprising, your old unit sounded a lot more boosted in the treble.
I am still amazed by the smooth sound of the SE Electronics V7, it is definitly the best sounding to me. I do not include the Neumann, that is a bit unfair.
The Samson is €99,- in Europe, so pricewise it is a lot worse, the V7 or an Rode M1 are cheaper, but they need an interface off course.
i watched so many of your videos a few months ago when i was searching for my first xlr mic. I landed on a q2u and love it. i'm a small streamer and the quality i get out of it is amazing.
is this microphone suitable for loud karaoke ? ( loud music nearby )
Sounds amazing for the price. Definitely better with XLR, the USB connection sounds like it cuts lower frequencies. Also I thought it sounded pretty cool when you cupped and muffled the microphone too(not _good_ but it sounded pretty cool).
I agree. I just listened again and I could hear that the XLR was less harsh up top. Well spotted.
is this microphone suitable for loud karaoke ? ( loud music nearby )
Thanks for the test, amazing and very interesting. Any headphone combo recommendation for podcasting and zoom meeting with Samson ?
Whoa it sounds so good! Much better than the older Q2U and also better than the 2100X imo
Love my Q2U, wouldn't have found it without you
You sir are an audio genius!
A genius review! 🎉
I love this mic. I get asked what I'm using all time.
Mannn, amazing video! I would like to buy a good cost-effective microphone to record on the streets, interviewing people. Which would you recommend?
I would love it to be this one, but when you handle it I feel like it's going to make a lot of noise
Bought the se 7 and a evo 8.
Struggling to convince myself this sounds better than the q2u for basic youtube "how-to" voice over!
Great comparison, love you channel. How do I distinguish between new and old version of the Samson Q2U microphone?
The XLR is just EVER so slightly better had a bit more body and less high end but it's somewhat difficult to notice the difference it's inconsequential wont really matter especially to most people but the difference is there.
I think you'd notice after a while. The USB out is quite harsh up top. XLR sounds great (through the Focusrite) though.
Great vid! I just bought one as my first mic. Do you have a budget recommendation for a better pop filter and/or windshield for it?
I've been using my Samson Q2u for years after being recommended it from this very channel. It's done a lot of good for me with podcasting and streaming, though I've been thinking of upgrading. Though I'm not really sure of what should be a good one up on this one (note my room is not soundproofed but is carpeted and fairly small in space), so any recommendations for an upgrade would be welcomed.
The first thing is if you can upgrade your room, that would be a good step. If not, i suggest trying to test a few different microphones at say a Guitar Center to see which one gives a tone that's pleasing to you. If you can't do that, I believe sweetwater has a pretty good return policy *don't quote me on that*
I've never really found another mic I could justify the purchase of over the q2u and I've went through a lot of mics
is this microphone suitable for loud karaoke ? ( loud music nearby )
I vote for a Lander Says Podcast episode four feet from the mic for the whole show.
On a serious note, thank you for this video. Looking to upgrade a cheap mic that had an on off button and was looking at the Shure SM58. I like that this has the on off button as it will be used for work (USB side) and for my YT videos (XLR).
Great mic, i don’t see much difference with the original. Hey dude, do you have a mic recommendation for low voice/Baritone voice?. Thanks, love your reviews👏🏼👏🏼.
Rode NT1A is good for baritones. Rode NT1 is good for tenors.
@@KamuBodohYaKan thank you sir, I appreciate it
Thanks for the interesting review. You show a totally black microphone, while everywhere in stores I see a gray body with a silver mesh. Are these different versions of microphones? Even your other video has a gray microphone. I don't understand are the same things or not?
They are the same thing, there was just a black version that was available for a while.
I use this for work meetings. Has great rejection over your usual omni-directional mics from headsets and webcams. Cheap, all-in-one, and plug and play. However, I found the tripod doesn't give me much options for proper placement, and eliminating the tripod increased noise from shocks and bumps.
Invested on a Samson shock mount for the Q2U and fixed that issue. That's a must-have. Also got a decent pop filter, it's a nice-to-have thing, but not necessary if you point your mic at the corner of your mouth at an angle. (Learned from you too)
Thank for your comment, how do you compare shock mount to boom arm. Would a boom arm be enough or do I have to get a shock mount?
Legendary microphone
Once again, great review Bandrew. Silly A$$ question, and I could probably search for and find the answer but...... Could I use this on an Android smartphone like a Pixel-4XL?
Just a little tip for anyone trying to save money, the silver q2u is $50 compared to the gray and black q2u for $70 so if looks aren’t a huge concern I’d just save the $20
was this on amazon? as of 3-5 It looks like theyre both 69.99
@@Just1n2802 From what I can tell the only place selling the sliver Q2U is BandH. Everywhere else only has the gray and black options for $70
I'd get the "newer" black one. It definitely sounds better. You can tell in the comparison in this video. The old one is far more sibilant.
Yo Bandrew, you think you'll be doing any lav mic reviews in the future?
Found one on Craigslist near me for $10. I adore it.
i still remember recommending this to a friend. He still has it and uses it to this day for his streams now. Your reviews helped out a lot so thanks Bandrew.
Do you have the BEACN mic or the recent Universal Audio mics on your review list?
No beacn mic because it’s windows only and I don’t use windows. UA mic is on preorder. So whenever that comes out…I’ll be testing and reviewing it.
@@Podcastage Will you review the GoXLR Mic, Bandrew?
@@estebangardila i couldn’t find it for sale on amazon or sweetwater. Where is it for sale?
@@BandrewScott Like you, I haven't found it on sale anywhere. Will you also skip those Beacn mixers they launched alongside the Mic?
@@estebangardila Nothing changed. I don’t have windows so I won’t be reviewing any BEACN stuff which is windows only.
Legendary mic imo
I just noticed that when you did the treated vs. untreated room test that the On/Off LED blinked RED every time you clapped. Does the Q2U have some kind of peak meter? Interesting.
red indicates clipping
Yes, it's clipping.
Hey! I would like you to check out the Boya brand! They make some surprising microphones, especially for their price. Build quality and performance is superb for the price. I own a Boya BYM1 lav, a Boya BYMM1 (its like a dslr supercardioid mic) and a Boya BYM1000, an XLR condenser mic that i got for 90 usd, and it performs so well, especially against my old behringer C1. Would love to see your take on the brand! They also make an audio interface and other stuff for really cheap!
Also! For 90 usd, the Boya BYM1000 came with a shockmount, and a pop filter! It has a high pass filter switch, 3 different polar patterns (omni, cardioid and figure 8), and a -10db pad! All metal housing, and to be honest, its very quiet! I was lucky that it fits my voice well!
is this microphone suitable for loud karaoke ?
The SM2u brings out a low-mid resonance in your voice that grates on me a bit fwiw. Many of the others are better that regard, with the SM7 and the Neumann doing particularly well (as they should). It's not bad per se, it just brings out something that sounds better to me when smoothed out a bit. And yeah, the sibilance isn't great.
I could tell it had a sizzly high end when compared to SM58 - it was right up there with the Shure.
It's good option to start recording 🔥🔥🔥
I bought this by following your suggestion. One small issue: Plosives are too much are on it, even when I use a filter.
i love this channel. some cheap USB dynamic mic with software? i'm using blue yeti but it is too much sensitive:(
I remember this mic coming in second next to the Samson C01U Pro in your best budget USB microphone video. I was just wondering if you think that opinion still stands? Maybe it'd be nice if we saw a review of the Samson C01U pro with your modern tests :)
So you've been beating it up for well over 6 years. What about the microphone?
Thanks so much. You saved me money!
This mic has been awesome, but what would you recommend as an upgrade? I have had this mic for awhile and getting the itch to upgrade for no reason lol
Excellent video
This helped a lot, thank you. Any suggestions as far as placement (boom or desk stand) to reduce the mac magic mouse clicking, which is really loud.
There are few choices of USB dynamic microphones.
I want a Re-review of AT2005USB!
Still sounds good! When I was getting started, I preferred it over the ATR2100 because I found (in Windows anyway) that the Q2U was louder, which I figured was better. I thought it had a better low-end too.
Thanks for your nice review. I want to buy this mic, but I am not sure if it works fine in Windows?
I have not heard any complaints from people that this does not work on windows, so I am assuming it works fine.
The Q2U works fine in Windows.
Here in Germany it costs the same as the ATR2100x, both 90€.
Any recommendations?
(Currently I tend more to the ATR2100x because it has USBC)
I was looking for this sort of comment! A year later, in Italy, you’ll barely find Q2U at 100€, while AT2100X is at 60€. Though Q2U sounds tiny tiny slightly better for my ear, I think at this price situation AT wins
You forgot the Audio Technica 2005...I have it, and love it!
There is another use case for simultaneous XLR+USB: XLR so you can use a mixer (e.g. Yamaha AG03) for streaming, but also USB so you can stream a game that uses voice to only receive microphone input instead of the complete stream as input (e.g. Phasmophobia uses voice recognition when you talk to a ghost).
I like to see more affordable ribbon mic reviews, im looking for a good alternative for the m160
This is a great post.
Hey man thanks for all the reviews!
Question… How do i go about if i want to purchase an xlr mic but do not want to spend hundreds of dollars on an actual audio interface?
Are there cheap options to make the xlr mic working as it should? are there any cheap alternatives that only works to get the mic up and running without any other extra things on it?
I would much rather purchase some type of small device that is used to power the mic up for cheap than going out to buy a go xlr or any other interface👍🏽
@@macintoshalexandcompany3903 Yeah, i did get a full xlr setup anyway with an interface
@@macintoshalexandcompany3903 what is a good USB microphone? and not too expensive
I just buy Q2U it after listening couple of your reviews. I really appreciate your review
I buy a boom arm to I use it on windows 10 and I try xlr and usb
I setup the mic in windows to get max sound but is still not loud enough:-( If I’m at 2-4 inch the sound is just ok but never really go upper the 16%
What you suggest ?
By the way I do mostly video conferences and video training.
and what is a good USB microphone? and not too expensive
Olá, sou Brasileiro e comprei o Mic por recomendação sua! Comprei no Aliexpress. Muito obrigado por sua recomendação, estou com ele a 1 ano e meio, muito obrigado, é um microfone excelente! Um abraço acalorado e um beijo!🇧🇷🇺🇲
Thank you!❤️
is this microphone suitable for loud karaoke ?
@@alexboegilini6135Yes, is suitable in every situation. I very like❤ I've been with him for 4 years
your first q2u review made me by the q2u and am thinking now to finally upgrade to a focusrite too. but now not 100% sure if i need to. i was thinking if i enable the air circuit on it it would make the q2u sound a better and then i'd also have an XLR interface I can use and eventually get a better mic too.
is this microphone suitable for loud karaoke ? ( loud music nearby )
I bought the very same bundle last month but it came with a gunmetal/silver(like your 2015 one)(i wish it was blackout)
Did you choose a black one? Or its a weird luck of the draw? No mention of black option on samson's website
I would love to see a sontronics solo reviewed. Seems to be a very competent handheld dynamic mic…
The Q2U is a great mic. Inexpensive but sounds great.