In fact, the signal is so weak that condenser mics can't work without a phantom power source. USB condenser mics can take power directly from the USB connection, but XLR condenser microphones ...

Another popular super-entry-level microphone from Tascam is the TM-250U, a USB-only condenser mic with a separate mini jack headphone output for monitoring. It seems like the TM-250U used to be ...

Don't rely on the wimpy microphone built into your phone or laptop. Here's how to find the best USB (and XLR with USB) mics for gaming, podcasting, and recording music, including our top-tested picks.