MAONO AME2C Pro Podcast Equipment Bundle Audio Interface Review

The MAONO AME2C Pro Podcast Equipment Bundle is an all-in-one podcasting kit that contains everything you need to start recording professional-quality podcasts. The bundle includes a USB podcasting microphone, headphone, pop filter, mic arm stand, shock mount, and cables. In this review, we’ll take an in-depth look at the key features and performance of the MAONO AME2C Pro bundle to help you decide if it’s the right podcasting gear for your needs.

Overview of the MAONO AME2C Pro Bundle

The MAONO AME2C Pro bundle contains the following items:

• MAONO AU-A04 USB Microphone
• Pop filter
• Adjustable scissor arm stand
• Table mounting clamp
• Shock mount
• Wind foam cap
• 3.5mm XLR female to XLR male cable
• 3.5mm TRS to TRS cable
• Microphone power cable
• Headphones

The star of the show is the MAONO AU-A04 condenser microphone, which features a 16mm electret condenser capsule capable of capturing rich, detailed audio. It has a cardioid polar pattern to isolate the sound source directly in front of the mic. The AU-A04 connects via USB and is plug-and-play with no driver installation required.

To help filter plosives and control sibilance, the bundle includes a double-layer pop filter that attaches to the scissor arm stand. The sturdy metal arm securely clamps to your desk and allows flexible positioning of the mic. The shock mount isolates the mic from vibrations and handling noise.

For monitoring your recordings, closed-back headphones are included. The bundle also contains all the necessary cables for connecting the XLR mic to your audio interface or mixing board.

MAONO Podcast Equipment Bundle 10 Channel Audio Interface and XLR Dynamic Microphone MaonoCaster with Pro-preamp, 48V, Bluetooth for Podcast, Streaming, TikTok, Youtube, PC, Smartphone (AME2C Pro)

• [Excellent Performance with Superior Preamp]: AME2 built-in quality preamps support phantom power for optimal performance of XLR microphones. The AME2 features 3-level mic gain adjustment, supporting ultra-low noise gain up to 60dB, and high-end dynamic microphones such as SM7B/SM58 and SM58. While 48V phantom power brings the condenser microphone to life. The 32-bit high-performance chipset and DENOISE function provide clearer sound.
• [Up to 11 Customized Sound Pads to Enhance Your Podcast Atmosphere]: AME2 10-channel podcast mixer allows for 11 customizable sound pads. 3 sound pads support recording of up to 60s of audio each and feature one-key looping, while the remaining 8 support 20s of audio. You can adjust the volume of each sound pad as well. Our digital audio workstation controllers allow you to upload your favorite audio for podcast recording via smartphone, PC, microphone, or Bluetooth device.
• [Perfect for Guitar, Bass, and Other Musical Instruments with a 6.35mm Jack]: AME2 is a great option if you are looking for an audio interface to record guitar or bass. With the high headroom instrument input, you don't have to sacrifice the tone, and you can get a perfect recording.
• [Premium XLR Dynamic Microphone for Clear Sound Recording]: Our XLR dynamic microphone has a built-in dynamic core and inner double-layer pop filter. Our noise isolation technology provides better attenuation of plosives, resulting in well-balanced reproduction across a wide frequency response range of 60-14kHz, delivering clean and mellow audio.
• [Upgraded Podcast Equipment Bundle]: Elevate your podcasting game with our new digital audio workstation controllers. They are plug-and-play ready, offer crystal-clear audio recording, and have a sleek design that gives your home studio a professional touch. Perfect for podcast recording, streaming, voice-overs, and content creation, our equipment is compatible with PC, smartphones, tablets, cameras, Windows, Mac OS, and more.

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Key Features and Benefits

Here are some of the standout features of the MAONO AME2C Pro podcasting bundle:

• Broadcast-quality USB condenser microphone: The AU-A04 mic reproduces sound with exceptional clarity and a flat frequency response of 30Hz-16kHz. Its 16mm diaphragm captures nuances and delivers warm, natural vocals.
• Cardioid polar pattern: The cardioid pattern focuses on sound sources directly in front of the microphone, rejecting off-axis sound. This makes it ideal for podcasting, streaming, voiceovers, and interviews.
• Plug-and-play connectivity: As a USB mic, the AU-A04 connects seamlessly to your PC or Mac. No drivers or external power needed.
• Pop filter: The double-layer pop filter prevents plosives and minimizes popping sounds, allowing for smooth, sibilance-free recordings.
• Shock mount: The elastic suspension shock mount isolates the microphone from vibrations and handling noise for distortion-free sound.
• Headphones: The closed-back monitoring headphones complete your recording setup, allowing you to hear your voice in real time.
• Scissor arm stand: Easily position the mic exactly where you want it with the adjustable scissor arm stand. It reaches up to 33 inches vertically.
• Cables included: XLR and TRS cables allow you to connect to mixers and audio interfaces. The bundle provides all the cabling you need.
• Great value: At under $100, this bundle gets you professional-level recording gear at an affordable price point.

Sound Quality

The MAONO AU-A04 microphone delivers impressive audio quality for the price. It records rich, detailed sound with excellent clarity across the frequency spectrum. The cardioid polar pattern successfully isolates the primary sound source and minimizes background noise. Vocals come through with presence and intimacy, making the mic well-suited for podcasting, streaming, and voice work.

The large 16mm diaphragm gives you a full, smooth frequency response. With a sampling rate of 48KHz/16-bit, the AU-A04 captures the nuances and dynamics of any voice. It can handle high SPLs up to 120dB without distortion. Most users praise the warm, natural tone of the microphone, which requires little EQ adjustment.

One downside is that the AU-A04 tends to pick up some background noise. The microphone is quite sensitive given its condenser design. But the included pop filter helps mitigate plosives and ambient noise. Overall, the AU-A04 provides impressive studio-quality sound considering its affordable price tag. It outperforms many mics in a similar budget range.

Design and Build Quality

In terms of design, the MAONO AU-A04 has a classic microphone look with an all-metal construction. The body is built from aluminum alloy, finished in a gray/black color scheme. A gold-plated mesh grill caps the end of the mic. The AU-A04 feels sturdy and durable in hand.

The base of the mic features an LED indicator light that turns red when powered on. All controls are conveniently located on the front. There is a knob to adjust headphone volume, a mute button, and a 3.5mm headphone jack. The back of the mic houses the USB port for connectivity.

Build quality is reasonably good for the price. The scissor arm stand and shock mount also have a robust metal construction. Adjustments of the arm and mount are smooth and stay locked in place. The double-layer pop filter uses quality acoustic foam and secures solidly to the stand.

While not as rugged as more expensive mics, the MAONO AU-A04 and accessories should hold up fine for home studio use with proper care. Overall, buyers are happy with the physical design, functionality, and build quality, especially considering the affordable bundle price.

Ease of Use

One of the MAONO AU-A04’s strengths is its hassle-free operation. As a USB plug-and-play condenser mic, setup is quick and easy. You simply connect the supplied USB cable from the mic to your computer, no drivers required. The mic automatically engages phantom power from the USB port.

Within seconds, you’re ready to record audio in your chosen digital audio workstation (DAW) software. The mic is compatible with all mainstream programs like Audacity, GarageBand, Streamlabs OBS, etc. It works seamlessly with both Windows PCs and Mac computers.

Adjusting settings on the mic itself is straightforward. Just turn the gain knob to control the headphone volume. The mute button allows you to quickly turn off audio when needed. Thanks to the simple cardioid pickup pattern, minimal positioning is required when recording. Overall, the AU-A04’s intuitive operation makes it ideal for beginners.

Assembling the accessories is also quick and easy following the instructions. Clamping the scissor arm to your desk takes just minutes. You can then maneuver the shock mount and mic into your desired recording position. The AU-A04 bundle lets you start podcasting the moment it’s unboxed.

Performance for Podcasting

So how well does the MAONO AME2C Pro bundle perform specifically for podcasting? Very good, based on user reviews and tests. The warm, natural sound of the AU-A04 microphone is perfectly suited to picking up the human voice. It records speech with excellent clarity and just the right amount of bass/treble balance.

The cardioid pattern ensures your voice is isolated and background noise is minimized. This allows listeners to focus on your words without distraction. The included pop filter effectively reduces plosives and sibilance that could otherwise distract from your podcast.

The bundle also provides the necessary monitoring and positioning tools. The headphones let you hear your voice levels while recording. The scissor arm enables optimal mic placement to maintain sound consistency.

For connecting to audio interfaces, the XLR and TRS cables have you covered. While not the absolute highest recording quality, the AU-A04 captures crisp, detailed podcast audio that sounds professional. Reviewers confirm the MAONO bundle makes it easy to record and edit great sounding podcasts at home.

Pros and Cons

Here are the key pros and cons of the MAONO AME2C Pro podcasting bundle:

Pros

• Excellent audio quality for the price
• Straightforward plug-and-play USB connectivity
• Great tools for podcast recording – pop filter, headphones, scissor arm stand
• Warm, natural vocal reproduction
• Solid build quality and design
• Easy to set up and use for beginners

Cons

• Captures some background noise
• Not the most durable construction
• Headphones could be higher quality
• Limited controls on the microphone itself

FAQs

Here are answers to some commonly asked questions about the MAONO AME2C Pro bundle:

Does the mic come with required accessories like a stand and cables?

Yes, the bundle includes cables, a scissor arm stand, and all necessary accessories besides a computer.

How do I connect the mic to my PC or Mac?

The MAONO AU-A04 uses a simple USB connection. Just plug the included USB cable into your computer and you’re ready to record.

Does the mic work with audio interfaces and mixers?

Yes, the XLR and TRS cables allow you to connect the mic to external mixers, audio interfaces, and preamps if desired.

Do I need any special software or drivers?

No, the mic will work in any recording software or platform like Audacity. No special drivers are required.

What polar pattern does the mic use?

The AU-A04 has a cardioid polar pattern, meaning it picks up sound directly in front of the mic.

How durable is the construction?

The metal build can withstand normal home studio use. But take care not to drop the mic or accessories.

Final Verdict

For beginner podcasters seeking an all-in-one solution, the MAONO AME2C Pro bundle delivers. It provides the essential tools for professional recording – a broadcast-quality USB condenser mic, pop filter, headphones, cables, and scissor arm stand. At under $100, this package delivers outstanding value.

The AU-A04 microphone sounds fantastic for the price, capturing warm, detailed vocals perfect for podcasts. It couldn’t be easier to set up and start recording. While not built for intensive field use, the construction is solid for home studio applications. All in all, the MAONO AME2C Pro podcasting bundle is a stellar choice for launching your podcast with professional-quality audio.

Conclusion

The MAONO AME2C Pro bundle removes any barriers to starting your own podcast. It provides easy plug-and-play operation, excellent broadcast sound quality, and all the accessories you need in one affordable package. For beginner podcasters who want great audio without complexity, this is an ideal all-in-one solution. Just unbox the MAONO kit, set up the mic, and you’re ready to record studio-quality podcasts.

MAONO Podcast Equipment Bundle 10 Channel Audio Interface and XLR Dynamic Microphone MaonoCaster with Pro-preamp, 48V, Bluetooth for Podcast, Streaming, TikTok, Youtube, PC, Smartphone (AME2C Pro)

• [Excellent Performance with Superior Preamp]: AME2 built-in quality preamps support phantom power for optimal performance of XLR microphones. The AME2 features 3-level mic gain adjustment, supporting ultra-low noise gain up to 60dB, and high-end dynamic microphones such as SM7B/SM58 and SM58. While 48V phantom power brings the condenser microphone to life. The 32-bit high-performance chipset and DENOISE function provide clearer sound.
• [Up to 11 Customized Sound Pads to Enhance Your Podcast Atmosphere]: AME2 10-channel podcast mixer allows for 11 customizable sound pads. 3 sound pads support recording of up to 60s of audio each and feature one-key looping, while the remaining 8 support 20s of audio. You can adjust the volume of each sound pad as well. Our digital audio workstation controllers allow you to upload your favorite audio for podcast recording via smartphone, PC, microphone, or Bluetooth device.
• [Perfect for Guitar, Bass, and Other Musical Instruments with a 6.35mm Jack]: AME2 is a great option if you are looking for an audio interface to record guitar or bass. With the high headroom instrument input, you don't have to sacrifice the tone, and you can get a perfect recording.
• [Premium XLR Dynamic Microphone for Clear Sound Recording]: Our XLR dynamic microphone has a built-in dynamic core and inner double-layer pop filter. Our noise isolation technology provides better attenuation of plosives, resulting in well-balanced reproduction across a wide frequency response range of 60-14kHz, delivering clean and mellow audio.
• [Upgraded Podcast Equipment Bundle]: Elevate your podcasting game with our new digital audio workstation controllers. They are plug-and-play ready, offer crystal-clear audio recording, and have a sleek design that gives your home studio a professional touch. Perfect for podcast recording, streaming, voice-overs, and content creation, our equipment is compatible with PC, smartphones, tablets, cameras, Windows, Mac OS, and more.

Check Price on Amazon