Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source hybrid wireless podcast microphone. I received this mic for testing and came away impressed.
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My experience
Given the price of the Maono PD200W mic, I expected it to sound like a sub-$100 mic. Boy, was I surprised.
I’m not saying the device was on par with my CAD mic, but it’s not all that far off. While it might not have the depth and resonance of the CAD, the Maono PD200W offers clarity, richness, and flexibility.
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When I say flexibility, here’s what I mean:
- You can connect it to an external audio mixer via XLR.
- You can connect it via USB-C.
- You can connect it wirelessly with the included receiver.
The PD200W also features three-level noise cancellation, a cardioid pickup pattern, a 60-meter wireless range, and 60 hours of battery life (with RGB lights off). You also get a desktop stand to boot.
But how does the device sound?
To test the mic, I connected it, via USB-C, to my System76 Thelio desktop and fired up Audacity. I then proceeded to record ‘Frog and Toad Are Friends’ by Arnold Lobel, just for fun. Without any EQ or adding filters or effects, I played back what I’d recorded and was impressed by the sound it captured.
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The output was clear, dynamic, had presence and depth, and did a great job of focusing on my voice.
Please note that I have been recording audiobooks for approximately 10 years. I know what sounds good and what doesn’t, and the Maono PD200W mic helped to bring the story to life.
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I had zero complaints. Even the wireless connection worked well. To use that option, plug the wireless receiver into your phone, turn on the mic, and the device will automatically connect. Open the app you want to use for recording, and record.
The volume knob and the mute button are easily within reach.
Jack Wallen/ZDNET
One of the nice things about this mic is that it allows you to start simple. Plug it into your desktop via USB and start recording. If you want to level up your recording, buy an external sound device (like the Scarlet 2i2 now, especially while it’s still on sale.
The specs
- 30mm dynamic capsule
- 48kHz/24-bit resolution
- 82dB signal-to-noise ratio
- Triple connectivity options: USB, XLR, and 2.4GHz wireless
- Dual-track recording capabilities
- Cardioid polar pickup pattern