The MXL raises more questions about what you actually need to make a recording on the run. With its plug and play ease and high-quality stereo recording, this could very well be the new podcast mic of choice.

That being said, this excellent USB device should probably stay at home for the in-depth studio sessions. It really is designed for podcasting, but yes, it can also be used in field productions and related applications.

The mic has dual gold diaphragm capsules in an XY pattern that creates the stereo feel. In recording, listen to the spacial quality, and notice that it does give a feeling of depth to the space.

In tests, the MXL USB 007 definitely holds its own in quality compared to other studio mics. The mic is wired with Mogami, providing maximum sound quality. Also impressive is the extreme portability and low cost of the MXL USB 007. Blue and Rode are releasing their own versions in the next month or so; how they measure up to the MXL USB 007 remains to be seen.