Zoom H2n or Regular USB condenser (for voice overs)

[zaf]

Hello Im from the philippines. Ive been using a really bad Samson Q1u so far (grrrrrrrrr), but im now ready for a slight upgrade that doesnt hurt my wallet. Im not quite ready to plunge in with a pre-amp and other equipment so im still going with the simple usb route.

Ive been looking at the Zoom H2n and it is looking pretty good at the moment. Is there any reason why i should get a more conventional non-portable USB mic instead of the Zoom? Its portability is only a bonus to me, otherwise i would really only be recording at home (stationary). The Zoom H2n is the highest i can afford but if i use it as a studio microphone with its USB connection, would it be better to use a non-portable microphone like the AT2020 and others?

 

[DarrenVocal]

You might want to check out the Blue Yeti out as a USB microphone. Its quite a good all-round microphone, and especially for voice-overs in my opinion. But oh well.

 

[BigJoe]

I can vouch for the at2020, it's a great mic for it's price. I would suggest getting the xlr version to go with your h2n. As you grow you can always use the at2020 with more elaborate setups and different mixers, etc. Even if you choose to go usb to start. I think you should still get the xlr version and just use a xlr-usb connector. That way your mic will be future proofed for upgrades down the eoaf and you'll have an easier time selling if you choose to do so later. I have some pricer mics, but the at2020 still gets used and is great bang for the buck!

 

[zaf]

errr lemme clear that up i could either get an H2n OR save some money and get an at2020.

 

[DarrenVocal]

errr lemme clear that up i could either get an H2n OR save some money and get an at2020.

I'm not sure if you saw what I posted, but... I don't believe the AT2020 has a good sound quality, that is in my opinion only, though.

 

[zaf]

hmmm.. people seem to recommend the at2020 tho.

Well i had a samson c01u aswell before but i thought it was too "quiet" and also It couldnt handle louder volumes. Eg. When i shout "Ladies and Gentlemen!!! Your BLABLA!", it would come out really bad.

What about the Zoom H2n? Is there any reason it is not as good as a normal usb condenser? (if anyone here has experience with portable recorders)

 

[BigJoe]

errr lemme clear that up i could either get an H2n OR save some money and get an at2020.

Hmmm, Then I'd just save for the AT2020 and grow from there. I still recommend the xlr version with an xlr-usb cable. Then the mic can grow with you as you expand on your equipment later.