Name: MAONO MAONO A04 Gen2 XLR/USB Condenser Microphone Kit for PC Podcast Recording | 192kHz/24Bit Plug & Play Computer Cardioid Metal Mic with Software, Pro Sound Chipset for Content Creation, Stream, YouTube
Brand: MAONO
Price: 61.16 USD
Availability: InStock

Directory/Microphones/MAONO A04 Gen2 XLR/USB Condenser Microphone Kit for PC Podcast Recording | 192kHz/24Bit Plug & Play Computer Cardioid Metal Mic with Software, Pro Sound Chipset for Content Creation, Stream, YouTube

The breakdown

4 axes, scored the same way across every microphones we log.

Sound Reality6.0

Noise Rejection7.0

Build & Longevity6.5

Price Honesty8.0

Spec, translated

Its headline feature, dual XLR/USB connectivity, means you can plug it directly into your computer now and into a professional audio interface later without buying a new microphone.

Lab notes

The observations that actually change the buying decision.

The dual XLR/USB connection is the standout feature, offering a rare upgrade path from simple PC plug-and-play to a proper audio interface.

Sound capture is limited to 16kHz, making it adequate for spoken word but audibly less 'airy' than mics that reach the standard 20kHz.

The included MAONO Link software provides EQ and compression, a significant value-add, but these processing features only function over the USB connection.

The 192kHz/24bit sampling rate is a marketing checkbox; the true sound quality is defined by the capsule and analog components, which are constrained by the price.

Why you should buy

A new podcaster or streamer who wants an inexpensive start via USB with a clear future path to an XLR setup. Buyers who value built-in software to get a more polished vocal sound without learning complex audio plugins.

Why you should skip

Musicians who need to capture the full frequency range of vocals or acoustic instruments. Users who already own an audio interface and can afford a pure XLR microphone with a superior capsule.

What buyers actually say

Themes pulled from real owner reviews, not marketing copy.

Pros

Dual USB and XLR offers a clear upgrade path
Included software simplifies audio processing
Aggressive price point for the feature set
Cardioid pattern helps isolate voice from room noise

Cons

Frequency response capped at 16kHz
Software processing is disabled in XLR mode
Requires phantom power for XLR connection
Unspecified capsule and mount quality

Full specifications

Source: manufacturer + retail catalog · synced today.