XLR Mics for Streaming: Gaming: Best Picks, Setup Tips & Audio Quality

In streaming and gaming, audio quality is a crucial component that can elevate the experience for both streamers and their audiences. Whether you’re live-streaming your gaming sessions, hosting a podcast, or simply interacting with viewers, the clarity and richness of your voice can make a huge difference in engagement. A good streaming mic, especially one used with an XLR connection, is essential for achieving professional-grade sound.

Why is a good microphone essential for streaming?

A good microphone is essential for streaming and here are the reasons why:

• Clear and high-quality sound allows your audience to connect with you and enjoy your content without distractions. Imagine watching your favorite streamer, but the voice sounds muffled or full of background noise – it’s frustrating, right? 

• The best mic for streaming ensures crystal-clear audio, which helps build your online presence and credibility as a content creator.

Also, as streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube become more competitive, streamers are constantly looking for ways to stand out. One easy way to do so is by investing in top-tier audio equipment, like the best streaming microphone, which provides superior sound compared to cheaper alternatives. Whether you're into casual gaming or serious content creation, your microphone should be able to capture every nuance of your voice, ensuring the best possible connection with your audience.

Does XLR deliver better audio quality than USB?

XLR microphones allow more room for sound customization. Generally they have their pros and cons in comparison to USB microphones in terms of sound quality, particularly in professional environments. This difference is primarily due to how the microphones convert sound and the additional equipment that XLR mics require. XLR microphones provide more control over sound characteristics, allowing for cleaner, richer, and more detailed audio. This is especially important for streamers who want to ensure their voice sounds pristine.

The advantage of XLR microphones lies in their analog-to-digital conversion. Since XLR mics are analog, they require an external audio interface (such as a mixer or audio interface) to convert the analog signal into a digital one for streaming. This setup enables better preamps, more gain control, and higher overall audio fidelity. On the other hand, USB mics have built-in audio converters, which are convenient but limit the ability to control sound quality to a lesser extent. This is why many professional streamers and gamers prefer XLR microphones for their flexibility, audio performance, and versatility.

What's the difference between USB and XLR microphones when using them with a computer (gaming, streaming, etc.)?

The primary difference between USB and XLR microphones comes down to the connection type and the required hardware for each.

USB Microphones:

• Convenience: USB microphones are plug-and-play devices that connect directly to your computer without the need for extra equipment. This makes them highly convenient for streamers and gamers who need a quick and simple setup.

• Limited Sound Control: USB mics typically have fewer options for fine-tuning audio, as they rely on built-in preamps and sound processors. While some USB mics offer decent sound quality, they don’t provide the same level of control that XLR microphones offer.

• Lower Cost: USB microphones tend to be more affordable, making them a popular choice for beginner streamers.

XLR Microphones:

• Superior Sound Quality: XLR mics offer higher audio fidelity due to the analog signal they transmit. They provide greater sound detail and clarity, which is essential for a professional-sounding stream or podcast.

• Require Additional Equipment: To use an XLR mic, you will need an audio interface or mixer. These devices convert the analog signal from the mic into a digital one that can be read by your computer. This adds an extra layer of complexity to the setup but provides much more control over the audio quality.

• Better Flexibility and Control: XLR microphones allow for more customization and control, such as adjusting gain, equalization, and compression to get the best sound for your voice.

While USB microphones are generally easier to use and more affordable, XLR microphones are favored by more experienced streamers and gamers who want complete control over their audio setup. The ability to tweak the sound quality and ensure that your voice is heard clearly and cleanly is one of the main reasons people recommend XLR mics for serious streaming.

Why do people recommend XLR mics over USB for streaming?

Streamers and gamers recommend XLR microphones over USB options for several reasons:

1. Better Audio Quality

XLR microphones tend to deliver higher-quality, more detailed sound. They capture your voice with more precision, making them ideal for anyone looking to provide a professional-grade audio experience for their audience.

2. Greater Control

XLR mics offer more flexibility in terms of sound control. When paired with an audio interface or mixer, you can adjust the gain, EQ, and other settings to fine-tune your voice. This allows streamers to shape their audio to match their desired sound profile and reduce unwanted noises or distortions.

3. Scalability

If you’re serious about streaming and plan to expand your setup in the future, XLR microphones offer more scalability. As your needs grow, you can upgrade your audio interface, add more microphones, or adjust your signal chain without needing to replace your microphone.

4. Durability and Reliability

XLR microphones are often built to last longer and withstand the wear and tear of frequent use. They are also more commonly used in professional audio settings, making them a reliable choice for those who want consistent performance.

5. Professional Appearance

For streamers and gamers who are looking to create a professional look, XLR microphones, with their sleek designs and microphone stands, are a visual upgrade from the typical USB microphone setups.

How do you adjust the gain control of an XLR microphone?

Adjusting the gain control of an XLR microphone is an essential step in achieving the best sound for streaming or gaming. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

1. Set up your audio interface: Start by connecting your XLR microphone to an audio interface using an XLR cable. The audio interface will then connect to your computer via USB or other connections.
   

2. Check your audio interface settings: Most audio interfaces come with a gain knob that controls the input volume of the microphone. Turn the gain knob clockwise to increase the gain and counterclockwise to decrease it.
   

3. Test the microphone: Start speaking or performing sounds into the microphone. As you adjust the gain, pay attention to the sound levels on your interface’s audio meter. Aim for a signal that is strong but does not reach the red zone, which indicates clipping (distortion).
   

4. Fine-tune the gain: Adjust the gain slowly while monitoring your voice to find the right balance. Too much gain can lead to distortion, while too little can result in low audio levels that are difficult to hear.
   

5. Use software for fine control: Many streaming applications (like OBS or Streamlabs) also allow you to adjust audio levels within the software itself. Use this in combination with your audio interface’s gain control to ensure your voice sounds clear and balanced.

Adjusting your XLR mic’s gain correctly ensures that your voice is captured accurately without unwanted noise or distortion, delivering a polished audio experience for your audience.

FAQs:

What are the best budget XLR microphones for streaming beginners?

For beginner streamers, budget XLR microphones that provide excellent value for their price include the Maono PM360 and Maono PM320.

Best budget microphone for streaming:

• Maono PM360: This budget-friendly microphone is perfect for newcomers to streaming. It offers great sound quality for the price, with a cardioid pattern that minimizes background noise. The build quality is sturdy, and it comes with essential accessories like a shock mount and pop filter.

Live streaming microphone:

• Maono PM320: A slightly more advanced option, the PM320 is a great choice for streamers looking for an affordable XLR mic that delivers professional sound. It features a high-quality cardioid pattern for voice capture and has low self-noise for clean recordings.

Both microphones are the best XLR microphone for streaming and are great choices for those starting their streaming journey and looking to improve their audio quality without breaking the bank.

What is the best XLR microphone setup for streaming in 2025?

For 2025, the Maono PM320 is an excellent choice for streamers looking to create a high-quality audio setup without spending too much. Here’s a simple setup guide:

• Microphone: Maono PM320 (XLR)

• Audio Interface: MaonoCaster AME2A

• Pop Filter: To reduce plosive sounds

• Shock Mount: To prevent vibrations and handling noise

• Mic Stand: Adjustable arm stand for flexibility

• Cables: XLR cables for connection

This setup provides excellent audio quality, durability, and flexibility for any streamer or gamer looking to level up their audio in 2025.

What accessories are essential for streaming with an XLR mic?

When streaming with an XLR microphone, a few essential accessories can help optimize your sound and setup:

• Audio Interface: This is crucial for converting the analog signal from the XLR mic into a digital signal that your computer can process.

• Pop Filter: Prevents harsh “p” and “b” sounds from distorting the audio.

• Shock Mount: Helps reduce vibrations and handling noise.

• Mic Stand: Provides stability and easy positioning for the microphone.

• XLR Cables: Essential for connecting your microphone to the audio interface.

These accessories ensure that your microphone performs at its best and delivers high-quality audio for your stream or gaming setup.

Conclusion

When it comes to streaming and gaming, XLR microphone setup for streaming offers the best in terms of audio quality, flexibility, and control. While USB microphones are convenient, XLR mics provide the level of detail and customization needed for professional-grade sound. With the right accessories, like an audio interface and pop filter, you can ensure your microphone delivers top-notch audio for your audience. For beginners, affordable options like the Maono PM360 and Maono PM320 are great choices, providing a balance of quality and affordability. With the right setup and careful adjustment of gain control, streamers can elevate their content to new levels, offering clear and immersive audio to their viewers.