USB Mic or XLR Mic + Mixer for Podcasting?

[NickD]

I'm going to be taking my podcasting and video blogging a little more seriously now, and therefore am upgrading my audio and video setups.

The question I have for you is this: Would you recommend a USB mic, or a regular XLR mic and a mixer for my podcasting work? The mic won't be used for vocal or instrument recording, just spoken word.

Thanks in advance!

Nick

 

[zflauaus]

It mainly depends on what your price range is.

If you are looking for something for less than $100 that is USB, the Samson COU1 (I believe) gets really good reviews for good sound quality. For under $200: the Blue Mic Snowball. Really good quality, switch for directional or omni-directional, good reviews.

Generally, you'll always be better off with an XLR mic and a good USB/Firewire mixer, but it all depends on if you can afford it. I can't really give suggestions to XLR mics/mixers because I don't do that route yet and don't really research it, but that would generally be the best option for the best audio quality.

 

[zimv20]

there's a USB mic thread going on right now.

 

[NickD]

OK. I'm looking at different options now. Let's say I got an XLR condensor mic and something like a Xenyx 802 mixer. What would be the best way to plug the mixer into my Mac?

Also, if I upgraded to the 1204 (or is the 1202?) and got direct USB in, would that be my best choice?

NickD

 

[zimv20]

read the stickied primer to understand your input chain better.