SAMSON Technologies Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone Recording and Podcasting Pack (Includes Mic Clip, Desktop Stand, Windscreen and Cables), Silver
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AI Verdict
This is the go-to starter mic for any new podcaster or streamer who wants great sound without a complicated setup, offering a clear upgrade path from USB to XLR.
This is a strong fit for beginners because it solves the biggest starting problem: getting good, background-noise-free audio without needing extra gear. The dual USB/XLR connection is its killer feature, letting you start easy with USB and upgrade to an audio interface later without buying a whole new mic.
If you need to capture more subtle sounds from further away, look for a condenser microphone instead of a dynamic one.
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Pros
- Dual USB-C and XLR outputs provide plug-and-play simplicity now and a professional upgrade path for later.
- The dynamic, cardioid design is great at rejecting background noise like keyboards or room echo.
- Its all-metal body feels surprisingly durable and has been reported to last for years.
- Includes a full starter kit with a stand, windscreen, and both USB-C and XLR cables in the box.
- Features a built-in 3.5mm headphone jack for zero-latency audio monitoring.
Cons
- The included desktop tripod stand is flimsy, short, and known to pick up desk vibrations.
- It has low sensitivity, requiring you to keep your mouth very close (2-5 inches) for good volume.
- The included foam windscreen is loose and only moderately effective against plosives ('p' and 'b' sounds).
- Some users report a noticeable hiss or high noise floor when using the headphone jack for PC audio output.
Dimension Scores
For vocals, it's clear and rejects background noise well, though it's not as detailed as more expensive condenser mics.
It has a built-in bass roll-off to avoid boominess, but its low sensitivity means it requires high gain and close placement.
Having both USB-C and XLR outputs is a standout feature in this price range, offering unmatched flexibility.
The microphone body is a solid, die-cast metal construction, though the included plastic stand is a weak point.
Best For
- First-time podcasters on a budget who need an all-in-one package.
- Gamers and streamers wanting clearer voice chat than a headset mic in a noisy room.
- Home office workers looking to dramatically improve their audio on Zoom or Teams calls.
- Recording vocals or instruments directly into a computer without an audio interface.
Not Recommended For
- Users who need to be more than a few inches from their microphone.
- Recording quiet, nuanced sounds or capturing the sound of an entire room.
- Anyone who isn't willing to eventually buy a separate boom arm to replace the included stand.
Watch Out For
- The included tripod stand is a common complaint; it's unstable and too short, making proper mic placement difficult without stacking it on books.
- You have to speak directly into the top of the mic from very close range; people who move around or lean back will sound distant and quiet.
- While the headphone jack is great for monitoring your voice, some users find it noisy when set as the main computer audio output.
- The on/off switch, while useful, can feel a bit cheap and is a potential point of failure after long-term use.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 750408417640 809164009665 |
| ASIN | B001R747SG |
| Brand | SAMSON |
| Color | Multicolor |
| Material | Metal |
| Batteries | 1 AAA batteries required. |
| Color Name | Multicolor |
| Model Name | Q2U |
| Item Weight | 11.2 ounces |
| Color Screen | No |
| Manufacturer | Samson |
| Power Source | Corded Electric |
| Material Type | Metal |
| Polar Pattern | Unidirectional |
| Connector Type | USB Type-C |
| Special Feature | Stand |
| Hardware Platform | PC |
| Item model number | SAM SAQ2U |
| Compatible Devices | Personal Computer |
| Hardware Interface | USB |
| Number of Channels | 1 |
| Product Dimensions | 10.05 x 7.5 x 2.55 inches |
| Included Components | Q2U USB-C Microphone |
| Number of Batteries | 1 AAA batteries required. |
| Signal-to-Noise Ratio | 70 dB |
| Microphone Form Factor | Microphone System |
| Connectivity Technology | USB-C |
| Item dimensions L x W x H | 10.05 x 7.5 x 2.55 inches |
| Recommended Uses For Product | Podcasting |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00809164009665, 05053959417134 |
What Buyers Say
The most surprising thing about the Q2U is how it manages to sound almost as good as mics costing twice as much, like the Shure SM58. Its biggest strength is the dual USB/XLR connection, which gives you a clear path to upgrade your setup later. It's a dynamic mic, so it does a fantastic job of isolating your voice and ignoring keyboard clicks or room echo, but the trade-off is that you have to keep it right up to your mouth. The main recurring complaint is the included desktop stand, which is flimsy and too short to be truly useful. Plan on buying a boom arm to get the most out of it.
“i literally cant believe this mic was under $70, i plugged it in and my friends on discord immediately asked if i bought a pro setup, sounds amazing and i didnt have to mess with any software.”
Common Praise
- The dual USB/XLR outputs offer incredible flexibility for beginners and future upgrades.
- It's a dynamic mic, so it's great at rejecting background noise from keyboards, fans, or roommates.
- The main microphone body is made of metal and feels very sturdy and durable for the price.
- Sound quality for voice is frequently complimented, with many surprised it's not a $100+ microphone.
- The zero-latency headphone jack is a huge plus for monitoring your own voice without any delay.
- It's plug-and-play on both Mac and PC with no drivers needed.
Common Complaints
- The included desktop tripod is flimsy, unstable, and too short for proper positioning.
- You have to keep the mic very close to your mouth (2-5 inches) or the volume drops off significantly.
- The included foam windscreen fits loosely and doesn't fully tame plosive 'p' sounds.
- Some users report a noticeable hiss when using the USB connection, though this is less common than with its predecessor, the Q1U.
- The on/off switch feels a little flimsy and can be a point of concern for long-term durability.
Ownership Tips
- After a few weeks, you'll realize a boom arm isn't a luxury, it's a necessity to get the mic off your desk and positioned correctly.
- The ability to use both USB and XLR at the same time is a neat trick for recording a backup audio track to your computer while sending the main XLR feed to a mixer.
- You'll quickly learn to speak across the top of the mic, not directly into it, to help reduce plosives even with a pop filter.
- The headphone jack's volume buttons are small and a bit fiddly to adjust without looking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to have my mouth right on the mic for it to work?
Yes, you need to be very close, typically 2-5 inches away, for the best sound. This is normal for a dynamic mic and helps it reject background noise.
What's the point of having both USB and XLR?
USB lets you plug directly into a computer with no other gear, which is great for beginners. XLR lets you connect to professional gear like mixers and audio interfaces for better quality and control as you grow.
Does this mic need phantom power?
No, as a dynamic microphone, it does not require phantom power to operate via either USB or XLR.
Can I use this with an iPhone or iPad?
Yes, you can connect it to an iPhone or iPad using Apple's Lightning to USB Camera Adapter, but this adapter is not included.
How do I stop the 'p' and 'b' sounds from popping?
The included foam windscreen helps, but for best results, you should buy a separate pop filter that clamps onto the stand. Speaking slightly off-axis (not directly into the mic) also helps.
Why can't people hear me when I plug the mic in via USB?
When you plug in the Q2U, your computer might automatically set it as both the input and output device. You need to go into your computer's sound settings and set the Q2U as your input device, but keep your regular speakers or headphones as the output device.
Is there a big difference in sound between USB and XLR?
Many users report that the sound quality is slightly better and cleaner when using the XLR connection with an audio interface, but the USB quality is still excellent for the price.
Buying Guide
You're looking at a dynamic microphone, which is perfect for focusing on your voice and ignoring other sounds in the room. Think of it like a spotlight for sound. The key feature here is the dual USB and XLR connection. This means you can plug it straight into your computer today, and if you ever get serious and buy an audio interface or mixer, you don't need to buy a new microphone.
Dynamic Microphone
This is like the microphone a singer uses on stage. It's built to capture what's directly in front of it (your mouth) and reject sounds from the sides and back (your keyboard, your dog). It's less sensitive than a condenser mic, which is a good thing if your room isn't soundproofed.
USB/XLR Connectivity
This is like having a car that runs on both gas and electricity. USB is the simple, direct-to-computer option. XLR is the professional connection that plugs into dedicated audio gear for even better quality and control. This mic lets you start with one and grow into the other.
Cardioid Pickup Pattern
Imagine the mic can only 'hear' in a heart-shaped area in front of it. That's cardioid. It's most sensitive to sound from the front and actively rejects sound from the sides and rear, which is exactly what you want for recording your voice at a desk.
Alternatives
If this mic isn't for you, search for a 'USB condenser microphone' if you're in a very quiet room and want to capture more detail from a bit further away. If you need something you can wear, search for a 'lavalier microphone'.
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