6 Reasons NOT to Use an XLR Mic!

Yeah, I know that XLR mics are technically better for recording voice over than other mics, such as dynamic mics and USB mics.  But here’s the thing: I own about 20 XLR mics, including some pricey ones, and yet I use a USB mic for myself.  Now, you may know that I’m not a voice actor. But regardless, I’m still on-mic all day, and I pride myself on having super sound quality while I coach, lead seminars, speak on panels, and so on. So, curious why I use a USB? Well read on.

1. You’re a bit of a luddite, and complex technology is not for you. XLR mics need more gear compared to, say, USB mics, like an audio interface or mixer to hook up to your computer, and therefore a few more cables. And that means a learning curve, which can be overwhelming for beginners. Our Home Studio 101 Webinar teaches you how to use XLR mics in an easy way. In contrast, a USB mic just needs a simple USB connection.

2. You travel a lot. XLR mics are more fragile than USBs. And given the additional interface (mentioned in #1 above) and wires, they’re less travel-friendly. So if you’re often on the road, a USB mic may be a better option.

3. Your budget is small. XLR mics and their accompanying interface and cables tend to be pricier than USB mics. And this can be a deal breaker for new voice actors trying to keep costs low – especially when they’re just starting out on a budget.

4. You like easy. The interfaces that are needed with XLR mics have additional controls, from the most basic “gain” to an assortment of processor levels. So setting up and adjusting an XLR mic takes more time and know-how. And therefore, if you want something simple that you can plug and play, you might want to go with a USB mic instead.

5. You want to protect your mic. AND THIS IS WHY I USE A USB MIC AT HOME: When my (then) 4-year old began recording singing tracks for a cartoon, and my (then) 7-year old son began narrating audiobooks, I didn’t want them grabbing an expensive XLR. So I went USB since they’re less expensive, less prone to damage, require fewer wires to play with, and are shinier (good for little kids. Oh heck, that’s fun for me, too!).  So if you have cats hairing up your mic, or kids gummy-bearing up your mic, or even if you’re accident prone, well, then, a USB mic may be a wise choice.

6. Your acoustics are good. AND THIS IS WHY I CAN USE A USB MIC AT HOME: The biggest factor impacting good sound quality is good acoustics … not the mic itself. Rule of thumb: if your acoustics are good, you can totally use a less expensive USB mic.

So let me wrap up this article; Please know I am not against XLR mics. As mentioned, I own a bunch of them, and we use them 99% of the time in our 5 VO recording studios. But that doesn’t mean XLR is always the best choice.

BONUS: Here’s an article I wrote for public speaking mics. Much of it applies to voice over.

WANT HELP selecting a mic?  Or want me to review your sound quality? Then grab one of these (very popular) $47 Reviews with me.

HERE’S SOME ADDITIONAL INFO…

When you’re picking between a USB and an XLR microphone, it really comes down to how much gear you want to deal with and what kind of sound you’re after. USB mics are super straightforward — you just plug them right into your computer’s USB port, and boom, you’re ready to record. They’ve got all the tech inside, like the analog-to-digital converter, so you don’t need extra equipment. That’s why USB mics are perfect if you want something simple for podcasts, streaming, or Zoom calls.

On the other hand, XLR microphones are the classic choice for pros and studios. Unlike USB mics, XLR mics don’t connect directly to your computer. You’ll need an audio interface or mixer to turn that analog signal into digital. This might sound like a hassle, but it gives you way more control and flexibility. Plus, you can swap out mics, upgrade your setup, and get better sound quality over time. XLR is basically the industry standard for a reason.

One thing to keep in mind is that USB microphones are kind of all-in-one, which means you’re stuck with whatever preamp and converter they have inside. XLR mics let you pick and choose your gear, so you can customize your sound. Also, USB cables usually can’t run very far without losing quality, while XLR cables can be longer and more reliable.

So, if you’re just starting out or want something easy and portable, a USB mic is great. But if you want to get serious about recording and don’t mind a bit of setup, an XLR mic is the way to go. Either way, both types can sound awesome — it just depends on your style and needs.