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The Samson Q2U is one of the most popular microphones for new and experienced podcasters. Ask any podcast community for a microphone recommendation and who will talk about Q2U.
In this Samson Q2U review, we’ll explain what makes this podcasting machine the best and help you decide if it’s right for your podcasting setup.
What is Samson Q2U?
The Q2U is a powerful USB/XLR microphone from Samson Technologies. They have been producing audio equipment for over 40 years. Today, they are the industry leader in both consumer and professional audio through three brands: Samson Audio, Samson Wireless and Hartke. Their 250 products are sold worldwide.
The Samson Q2U offers a cardioid pickup pattern. The following picture explains what this means. The microphone sits in the middle of the picture and picks up the sound in the heart area centered on the black foot. This makes it ideal for picking up vocals and rejecting surround sound and behind the microphone.
While condenser microphones are very sensitive to all sounds (even ambient sounds like your air conditioner or the traffic outside your window), dynamic microphones are not very sensitive, which makes it’s easy for new podcasters who haven’t followed the full microphone system.
Specifications Samson Q2U
- Material Type: Strong
- Polar Pattern: Cardioid (Unidirectional)
- Frequency Response: 50HZ-15KHZ
- Bit depth: up to 16 bits
- Sample rate: 44.1khz/48kHz
- Digital Output: Micro-USB
- Too much. SPL: 148dB SPL
- Product dimensions: 7.5″ by 2.2″ diameter
- Sensitivity: -54dBV/Pa
- Analog output: XLR
- Microphone switch: on/off (USB and XLR)
- Product weight: 0.7lb (0.32kg)
- Headphone Jack: 3.5mm
Why we love the Samson Q2U
First, in this Samson Q2U review, let’s talk about what we like about this speaker.
We like professional microphones. Being a USB/XLR microphone, the Samson Q2U can be plugged directly into your computer. You don’t need another device to use Q2U. Adjustable lenses also don’t require phantom power, so you can use them in a variety of spaces. It’s a plug and play.
But since it also offers XLR connections, you can use sophisticated audio devices such as preamplifiers and analog-to-digital converters. Or you can use an audio interface, which has preamps and a converter in one unit. (Our favorite is the Focusrite Scarlett 2i2.) If you have an audio interface, plug the Q2U into the interface and then plug the interface into your computer.
Advice
Need an audio mixer for your podcast production? All pros use one. Check out our list of the best audio mixers.
Another thing we liked about the Q2U during our Samson Q2U review was the lack of hiss. Most USB mics (especially cheap ones) produce a self-deprecating sound. This is true for the Q2U’s predecessor, the Q1U. Samson managed to somehow remove the tick from Q2U.
Most new podcasters prefer a USB microphone connection because it’s simple and lets you jump right into creating content. We like the Q2U because the XLR connection allows you to grow as a podcaster without directly replacing your microphone.
Finally, the Q2U has a solid diecast construction. It won’t break after you drop it from your desk. This means it’s also a great microphone to take with you if you want to record on location.
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How much does the Samson Q2U cost?
By itself, the Samson Q2U costs less than $70. However, new podcasters can enjoy the Samsons Podcast package. It comes with many features that podcasters need:
- Desktop/table speakers and boom arms
- Pop filter and air conditioner
- Stereo headphone set
- XLR and USB cables
- Quick cleaning tools
One thing this podcast app doesn’t include is a case to take everything. If you often find yourself doing podcasts on the go, we recommend picking up a case to protect your device, especially the microphone.
If you want to record using an XLR connection to an audio interface/mixer, you’ll need another XLR cable.
Advice
Need an audio mixer for your podcast production? All pros use one. Check out our list of the best audio mixers.
Samson Q2U failed
As we said, this is a cheap microphone, so it won’t produce perfect audio every time. We found that it was very sensitive to plosives (the air explosions that are produced when you make letter sounds like K, P, and T).
We strongly recommend using a windscreen (like this On-Stage Foam Windscreen) or a pop filter (like the PEMOTech Pop Filter) if you decide to go with this speaker.
Also, there is a noticeable increase in quality when using the XLR connector. Don’t get us wrong, the USB connection isn’t loud, but the XLR connection is definitely better. However, you need an audio interface for this, which adds to the cost.
Our final complaint is that the podcast package doesn’t come with adapters for smartphones and tablets. We love that you can use this microphone when recording with a mobile device, but we want the adapter to be attached to connect to an iPhone, iPad, or other device.
Record with the Samson Q2U
Since the Samson Q2U plugs right into your computer, you don’t need any other equipment to make great recordings. The cardioid recording mode makes it easy to ignore bad recording conditions.
That said, you should be recording your podcasts in a well-organized recording environment. You don’t need a professional podcast studio, but you should record in a quiet, soundproofed room with little background noise or traffic.
Surround yourself with a soft, sound-absorbing surface, such as a blanket, pillow, or carpet. Some of the biggest podcasters in the world record in their closet between hanging clothes and towels so no sound bounces back during their time in the recording room.
We recommend wearing headphones or earphones while recording. This will help you identify the surround sound going into your recording. If something is too loud (or you think it will be difficult to edit later), consider pausing and recording the part again. If you need headphones, we recommend the Sony MDR 7506 or the Sennheiser HD280 Pro.
More microphone options
The Samson Q2U is often referred to as the “Swiss Army Knife” or microphone because it is light, flexible, and economical. That said, it’s not the right microphone for everyone.
If you don’t think the Samson Q2U is right for you, check out our list of the best podcast microphones or the best broadcast microphones for more options. You may also find our review of the Blue Yeti and our review of the Shure SM7B helpful.
If you’re not sure what to buy, we recommend reviewing our podcast equipment recommendations list. Our suggestions are divided by budget, so you can find the right equipment for your needs at any price point.
We’re also fans of the Audio Technica ATR2100x for new creators. The ATR2100 has many of the same features as the Q2U. It is easy to use, cheap, offers good sound quality and connects with USB and XLR connectors. Between the two, we think the Q2U offers richer, fuller sound, so you get more bang for your buck, but the ATR2100x has a USB-C connection, so it plugs into other devices and pays off quickly.
Samson Q2U Review: Our Verdict
For a low price, the Samson Q2U is the perfect introductory speaker for new podcasters. It offers a lot of functionality and good audio quality for its size. The USB/XLR connection gives podcasters a lot of flexibility. You can plug it into your computer until you decide to invest in an audio interface.
Is it the best microphone out there? No. If you want the best sound quality, there are many better options, but they come with a higher price point. Many podcasters decide to upgrade once their shows start bringing in revenue, usually with something like the Shure SM7B.
Finally, after completing our Samson Q2U review, we can recommend the Samson Q2U to any new podcast. It is flexible and easy to use. It offers good sound quality at an affordable price.
Pick up your own Samson Q2U on Amazon.
What microphone do you use? Let us know in the comments!
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