Are you using a phantom supply without a preamp...?
Otherwise, I'd hypothesize something about QC. I don't think I've ever even heard of a $15.19 condenser before.
Not trying to outright "diss" the thing -- But we're talking about an entire microphone that costs less than a really cheap shock mount - or even a decent cable. I'd have to assume that some corners may have been cut somewhere along the way.