 I get one question more than any other question and it's what mic should I get? I'm starting a podcast, what mic should I get? I just want to sound better in meetings. What mic should I get? I started streaming the other day. What mic should I get? What mic should I get? What mic should I get? What mic should I get? So let's get in it and get over it. I've been podcasting for 10 years, 10 years, geez. My tech show React podcast hit almost 1.5 million downloads in the two years that I was producing it. My fake bird song show, which was admittedly very fun to produce, I didn't quite do as well. During these last 10 years of podcasting, I've spent over $10,000 on microphones and sound equipment, but I have learned a ton about microphones and honestly, where you can cheap out and still get a ton of value. So what microphone should you get? The Samson Q2U. Most days you can find this microphone for $69. I bought mine for $59 and I've seen it as low as $39 this year. Yes, a discount in 2022, unheard of. So why when I have $1,000 microphones and $1,000 interfaces is a $69 mic, my favorite mic? The answer is simple. It comes with everything that you need to get started and can grow with you. So you can shut up about your plans to start a podcast, to stream a YouTube channel and just start recording. Check it out, I even made this microsafe homage to the Samson Q2U at shutupandstarttalking.com. So how does that sound? I think it sounds pretty great. You just plug it in via USB and you're ready to go. You can use a handheld like this or with the included desk accessories, which includes a little tripod, an extender and a mic clamp. And honestly, this actually gets it pretty close to your face for a regular desk. So with no additional money spent, I have something that I sound really great with. And when it's time to upgrade, take out the USB, you plug in an XLR, plug it into some ridiculously over-the-top interface like my Sound Devices Mixed Pre-6. Now you're a pro. Well, maybe not a pro, but you have the world of outboard gear at your disposal, compressors, limiters, sound effects. You're like semi-pro. Okay, let's pack this up. Look at how compact. Despite having all of the professional gear that I use now, this microphone still travels with me any time I go on the road. I often need a good microphone to record last-minute interviews, and I use it all the time to record screencasts inside of my hotel room. So if you like money, buy this mic. This is my favorite mic, the Samsung Q2U. Comes with everything that you need and has the ability to grow with you as your needs grow. If you like this video, think you might use a Samsung Q2U on your next project, use my affiliate link below, or you can just like this video and leave a kind comment below. Let's be honest, I was gonna spend that money on therapy anyway, so we can like skip the middle person. Stop planning and procrastinating on your next project and start recording. Maybe with the Samsung Q2U. I can't wait to see what you make. Peace.