SHOW / EPISODE

XLR vs. USB Mics

Season 1 | Episode 2
3m | Apr 14, 2020

What's the difference between an XLR and a USB microphone?


Original Blog post:

https://www.podcastgearforbeginners.com/learningcenter/whats-the-difference-between-a-usb-mic-and-an-xlr-mic


This episode is recorded on a Rode PodMic into the Tascam DR60 onto an SD card. Audio edited in Adobe Audition.


Gear and Software links:

Rode Podmic: https://amzn.to/2XxwUgY

Tascam DR60: https://amzn.to/3ciZU07

Adobe Audition: https://bit.ly/adobe-pgfb


Show notes:

When searching the interwebs for microphones for your podcats, you'll find primarily two kinds of microphones: USB and XLR microphones. It's not so important to understand what the letters in these names mean as much how each mic functions and which one you should use for your individual scenario. Here's the breakdown:


XLR Microphones

​XLR microphones utilize the "XLR" connector, which is the industry standard connection for high-quality microphones. Unlike the USB microphone, XLR mics need to be plugged into mixers, interfaces and digital recorders using an XLR male-to-female cable.


XLR mics are also very portable, but sometimes the additional gear needed to record can be bulky. If you're needing a highly portable recording solution, consider Zoom's digital recorders such as the H4n or the H6 along with an XLR mic.


USB Microphones

USB microphones contain all of the necessary wiring needed to connect to a computer through the USB port and start recording right away. Most of these kinds of mics will also have a headphone jack allowing you to monitor your audio while you record.


​Unlike XLR microphones, you do not need a mixer, audio interface or digital recorder to get started. If you're looking for an easy "plug and play" solution for a mic, requiring as little gear and technical setup as possible, the USB microphone is for you. USB mics are very portable and work seamlessly on PC and MAC.


*These links are affiliate links. If you purchase through this link we will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you, and it will support our efforts. Thank you!

Audio Player Image
Podcast Gear For Beginners
Loading...