Unfortunately, XLR microphones won’t work with a computer or other audio recorder unless you can connect them to an interface that, in turn, connects to your computer via USB. XLR microphones, differentiated by the large three-pinned XLR connector that’s been in use for ages and has plugged into many an analog sound board, come in many shapes and sizes, including some remarkably good-sounding microphones that are available for astonishingly low prices. However, there are reasons to choose XLR microphones over USB models. If you’re usually recording in an echoey room, this noise-killing dynamic microphone is a great choice. Right now the Audio-Technica ATR-2100-USB (sold in Europe as the Samson Q2U) seems to be the best buy for a lot less money than the Yeti, you can get a USB microphone that doubles as an XLR microphone for more complex set-ups, with a built-in headphone jack. I’ve recommended the Blue Microphones Yeti for years after using one myself for several years, and it’s still a great balance of quality and price.īut as Marco Arment points out in his microphone mega-review, there are a lot of other good options. They’re easy to use and convenient-just plug it in to your computer and start recording. The USB/XLR choiceįor most podcasters on a budget, the right microphone is almost certainly a USB microphone. I reviewed five low-cost USB audio interfaces in a search to find the best of the many options. Unfortunately, there are so many options that it can be dizzying.

Fortunately, there are good options to be found even if you’re on a tight budget. If you’re podcasting or recording voiceovers for video, you need a good microphone. Note: This story has not been updated for several years.

Best budget audio interface for mac