Samson Q2U vs Blue Yeti comparison: Which suits you best?

The main difference between the Samson Q2U and Blue Yeti is that Samson Q2U is a dynamic microphone while the Blue Yeti is a condenser microphone. Dynamic mics are good at loud sound sources and condenser mics are good for precision recording.

When it comes to working with sounds and recordings, the microphone is the most important piece of the puzzle in my opinion. Its ability to capture sound accurately and completely determines the overall quality of the music or recording you are trying to make.

But with so many options available in the market place, it is so difficult to choose one that suits your needs. In this post, I will be discussing more about the Samson Q2U vs Blue Yeti, two commonly names that are brought up in audiophiles circles.

They both serve different needs but one thing they share in common is that they appeal to a wide range of users. If you are trying to do a comparison or find out more about this 2 microphones, stay tuned.

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Samson Q2U vs Blue Yeti Comparison Factors

Whether you are a podcaster, recording artists, or just a hobbyist trying to fine tune your craft at home, a microphone should be one of your top priority investment.

Before you do so though, there are a few factors that you will want to pay attention to more as they can impact how well the mic works for you, how long you can use it for, and if it suits what you are trying to achieve.

For the purpose of this Samson Q2U vs Blue Yeti comparison, I will be looking into the following:

Overview
Design

Build Quality
Audio Quality and Performance
Key Features

Versatility

Let’s jump right in.

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Overview

About Samson Q2U

The Samson Q2U is a cardiod dynamic microphone which works well to capture loud sounds, big vocals, or in a live environment. This particular model connects to a computer using USB or you can connect it to an audio interface (such as the Focusrite Scarlett range) using XLR cables.

Since it is a dynamic microphone, it is not as sensitive as a condenser mic and does not pick up background noise as much. This could be an important consideration for you depending on the way you use your mic. A shock mount for a dynamic mic is a good addon to ensure a high quality recording.

Although it does not have the brand recognition like the Blue Yeti or other big names such as Shure or Audio Technica, it makes up for that by being a highly affordable and high quality microphone.

There are many podcasters and home studios that have tried out the Samson Q2U with raving reviews.

About Blue Yeti

I guess this mic does not really need a lot of introduction since it is one of the most popular entry level condenser microphones anywhere. There are lots of reviews and use cases that you can find online which speaks to how good the Blue Yeti is.

As a condenser mic, it works great in studio environments especially when you want to capture delicate vocals or high frequency sounds.

This desktop microphone has built up a loyal following all around the world thanks to the great value you are getting – high accuracy sound capture, low price point, ease of use. Other popular models such as the Snowball and Snowflake has made it almost like a household brand.

Read this too: Rode Procaster vs Shure MV7: Which Comes Up Tops?

Design

Samson Q2U design

From a design standpoint, there is not much to expect from dynamic microphones to be honest. They look very much like the popular Shure SM58 and has been marketed as a podcasting pack, though I would say it is really just a mic with a set of accessories to make it easier for a podcaster to record.

The output jacks are found at the bottom of the mic, where you will find a micro USB and XLR output. Here, you will also find a headphone jack, so basically a one input one output audio interface.

Located near the bottom of the mic, you will find a volume up down button while closer to the bottom of the grill, you will find the on off switch.

I do dig the classic design, plus the fact that it is well built with good quality material makes this a standout at this price range.

Blue Yeti design

With so many Youtubers using the Blue Yeti, it has become something that feels familiar to most people. The name itself is a bit curious, but it is not hard to see why when you consider its hefty size at 3.5 pounds.

It stands at 11.6 inches, towering above most of the other mics in the market as well as your other recording gear. I love the fact that it comes in a huge variety of colors (although you would have to search around online), but even the base colors of black, midnight blue, and silver are pretty awesome.

The base of the microphone is a tad clunky, but it is soon forgotten as the overall look of the microphone is very pleasing as does the colors.

The traditional look makes you feel like a real pro to boot!

Check this out too: RODE Procaster vs Shure: Which should you choose?

Build Quality

Samson Q2U build quality

A microphone’s build quality is a very important factor during your purchase decision. You don’t want one that fails before you have even warmed up.

Although the Samson Q2U looks very basic (as it should in my opinion), the build quality is excellent. I would even say that it is comparable to some other higher end models. The parts gel well together and you will not find any loose parts around.

The weight of the mic is also excellent. Some might say that it feels a bit heavy, but that also gives the impression that it is better made. The only thing is, if you are always holding it rather than using it attached to a stand, your hands might feel tired quicker.

Blue Yeti build quality

Again, I would use the word curious to describe the build quality of the Blue Yeti. With its size and weight, you would expect that it is made of higher quality material but the actual fact is that the Blue Yeti is mostly covered in plastics, even its knobs and switches.

That said, it does not mean that the Blue Yeti is a low quality product. The material they have chosen works well and gives it a professional look and feel.

Key Features

It is better to compare and see the key features of each microphone using a comparison table. To find out more information or to see the listing, you can click on Check Current Price.

Image	Product	Features	Price
	Samson Technologies Q2U Dynamic Microphone	Recording Patterns: Cardioid, Stereo, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional Recording Sample Rates: 16bit / 48kHz Min. Frequency Response: 20 Hz Max. Frequency Response: 20 kHz System Requirements: Windows, Mac OS X Mute Function: Yes Has Hyper Cardioid Pattern: No Number of Polar Patterns: 4 Has Omni Pattern: Yes DSP Presets: 11 Microphone Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): 0.5%	Check Current Price
	Blue Yeti	Recording Patterns: Cardioid, Stereo, Bidirectional, Omnidirectional Recording Sample Rates: 16bit / 48kHz Min. Frequency Response: 20 Hz Max. Frequency Response: 20 kHz System Requirements: Windows, Mac OS X Mute Function: Yes Has Hyper Cardioid Pattern: No Number of Polar Patterns: 4 Has Omni Pattern: Yes DSP Presets: 11 Microphone Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): 0.5%	Check Current Price

Audio Quality and Performance

Samson Q2U Quality

Quite frankly, the sound quality of the Q2U is excellent, especially when you consider that it is priced like that. If you compared it to similarly priced microphones, it trumps them most of the time. I would put it down to it being on par with the industry favorite, the Shure SM58.

While this may be subjective, the Q2U is best when used in XLR mode, but you do have to factor in the extra cost of getting an audio interface. That being said, when using it in USB mode, the quality is still great.

My only issue with it is its sensitivity to p-pops, or plosives in general. That has to be resolved by post editing though, so not exactly a big issue.

Blue Yeti Quality

The Blue Yeti is well known for its tremendous sound quality. Thanks to its 5v powered makeup, the Yeti is able to have many onboard controls such as a gain dial and a pattern switch. This allows you to switch between the different modes seamlessly.

In each of its different modes, the recording is top notch and accurate. Whether you are using it in omni directional mode to capture a room or cardioid mode for close ups, you can expect the Yeti to do a great job.

Versatility

Samson Q2U versatility

I love the fact that you can choose to either hook up your Q2U to a computer through USB or an interface through XLR. It gives you options and flexibility, particularly as a beginner when you may not necessarily want to invest in extra equipment just yet.

Also, if for some reason the XLR is not working well, you can easily switch to using the USB connection instead.

This is even more so when you are recording outside where you pack light and are trying to be mobile. Not everyone wants to lug an interface around nor are they able to find a power socket for it.

Check this out too: Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 Vs 2i4: Which audio interface is better for you?

Blue Yeti versatility

The Blue Yeti is a different type of microphone compared to the Q2U. Where it stands out is its ability to switch between 4 different microphone patterns, namely the Bidirectional, Cardioid, Omnidirectional, and Stereo modes.

As you switch between the modes, the microphone’s directions are changed to ensure maximum sensitivity and the directions of sound rejection.

This means that you can use the Blue Yeti in a number of different ways, making them one of the most versatile microphones you can get at this price point.

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Verdict: Blue Yeti vs Samson Q2U

In this comparison of the Samson Q2U and Blue Yeti, we are looking at 2 different types of microphone, one being a dynamic microphone while the latter is a condenser microphone. They should not be directly compared to each other, and this guide serves to highlight their individual characteristics.

One thing in common between them though is the quality and features they offer. I find them to be very attractive options for a wide range of users, especially beginners to intermediates.

If you are looking for your first microphone as budding sound artists or podcaster, both of these microphones should definitely be in your list of consideration.