So, you’ve been thinking about starting a podcast.
One of the key pieces of kit that you’re going to need to start strong is a good microphone (also see, ‘Starting A Podcast Checklist‘).
Now, technically, nothing is stopping you from using the in-built microphone in a headset or earbuds, or even a super-cheap model that you have found online.
However, you will also likely find that the quality of the sound that you are producing will plummet (also see, ‘How To Make Your Mic Sound Better‘).
And if you want people to stay tuned in, you need to not just be saying interesting, but be audible in the first place!
So, when it comes to some of the major manufacturers of microphones out there right now, which one should you start with?
Or, if you have already been podcasting for a little while, which one will take your program to the next level?
Well, the two options that we have here today, the Blue Yeti and the Samson Q9U, are considered some of the best in the audio equipment business, at least for beginners.
But how do you decide on which one to use for your show?
Well, that’s what we’re also here for. To help you decide on that!
 |  |
| Primary Rating: 3.5 | Primary Rating: 3.5 |
| $128.99 | $99.99 |
Blue Yeti
If you’re looking for one of the world’s most popular podcast microphones for newbies, then you’re in safe hands with Blue Yeti’s classic microphone.
One of the major details that most people notice about this microphone is that it uses a USB-type input setup system.
This means that this USB microphone, rather than needing to be plugged into an audio interface through an XLR input, then a USB adaptor, can simply be plugged straight into a computer or laptop setup (also see, ‘USB Mic VS XLR‘).
ALSO SEE: Blue Yeti USB Microphone Review
Considering that more and more programs for audio editing and recording are being done through computer and laptop programs, this is a USB mic setup that has become much more viable in the last 10 years (also see, ‘Best USB Podcasting Mics‘).
Not only that, but the Blue Yeti microphone is also known for its tri-capsule array that allows for the microphone to be tailored to specific audio levels, from multiple people speaking into it to just one person.
Plus, it gives a user plenty of versatility when it comes to how sensitive they want their mic to be.
Add to that a nice sturdy build quality, and an in-built stand for the microphone, and you have an excellent entry-level microphone for podcasters to sink their teeth (or rather, their voice) into.
Samson Q9U
So, now we move on to Blue Yeti’s competitor for this piece, the Samson Q9U.
Just one look at this microphone would have you believe that a model like this is more at home in a radio or professional recording studio.
However, this classic mic-inspired piece of equipment is certified for home use, with studio-level features to capture high quality audio, ready to be used for everything, from vocals to voice-over work, to even online conferences.
Compared to the last model we were looking at, the Samson microphone has a dual input setup for both XLR and USB input options, giving it versatility unlike many other microphones on the market right now (also see, ‘Best XLR Podcasting Mics‘).
While more and more programs for audio editing are becoming popular, XLR connections are still the primary input method for many traditional pieces of audio and sound equipment, which gives Samson just that many more options to work with.
Not only that, but the voice tones that come through on this mic or rich, deep, and full to listen to. If you want your audience to appreciate a good voice, this is an amazing broadcast mic to do so with!
Rating These Mics
So, with the introductions out of the way, we can finally start to directly compare these two mics to each other!
Sound Quality
Firstly, and most importantly, it would likely be helpful to know just how good the sound quality is from these devices.
Well, you won’t be disappointed with either of these models, as both are high-quality mics that are tailored to exceptional audio quality and vocal performances, which is a vital step for podcasters.
However, if you’re looking for a specific experience when using your podcast microphone, there are a few differences to consider when choosing these mics.
For example, it is important to note that the Blue Yeti microphone is a condenser microphone, while the Samson Q9U is a dynamic microphone.
Related Posts:
👉 Best Dynamic Microphones
👉 What Is The Best Dynamic Microphone For Vocals
👉 Best Condenser Mic
Blue Yeti
Being a condenser mic means that the Blue Yeti mic is better at catching more subtle and softer sounds that you want the mic to pick up from your vocal patterns, although this does come at the cost of potentially catching more unwanted background noise in your recording.
Condenser mics also tend to be more sensitive than dynamic mics, which means you have to be careful when adjusting the gain on your audio mixer (also see, ‘What Is A Condenser Microphone‘).
The Blue Yeti mic is no exception; if you turn up the volume too high, it may lead to distortion in your recording. To ensure the best sound quality, make sure that you are recording within a noise -free environment and that you are correctly setting the gain on your mixer.
Samson Q9U
The Samson Q9U meanwhile, with its dynamic mic setup, is much better a canceling out any softer or unwanted noise (also see, ‘How To Reduce Background Noise On Mic‘).
This mic allows your voice, provided that it stays close to the mic, to not only remain uninterrupted but also come across as richer and more rounded, rather than catching the occasional hiccups.
A boom arm is also a great investment to add extra flexibility and stability while you are recording (also see, ‘Best Microphone Boom Arm‘).
The Samson Q9U also makes for a great choice when capturing instruments in the studio, with its dynamic design being able to effectively capture sound sources like guitars and percussion.
Regardless of what you choose to record, the Samson Q9U can provide clear audio recordings as long as it remains close enough to your sound source. Therefore, it’s recommended that you experiment with different microphone placements and angles to get the best results.
Design
This is also an important factor when it comes to it. Does it look durable? How heavy is it to move around?
Well, this is a space where the two microphones are matched pretty evenly, as far as we can tell.
The Blue Yeti mic is slightly heavy and bulkier, but the in-built stand means that placing it is straightforward if you have a flat surface.
The Samson, while slightly lighter, is physically larger, and only comes with a mounting thread as standard.
Final Verdict – Which Is Better?
So, what is our final answer?
Well, rather annoyingly for you, while both the Blue Yeti and the Samson Q9U are awesome mics, it will come down to your personal needs.
If you are new to audio setups, and simply want a product that you know you can rely on for your early-day podcasting, then you can’t go wrong with the Blue yeti.
However, if you are specifically looking to help enrich your voice a little more, and are prepared to pay extra for it, you may want to go with the Samson Q9U.
