The Tonor TC30 USB condenser microphone has finally met all of my requirements for a good computer microphone. In the past I have purchased half a dozen microphones for use with my software--headset with mic, phantom power condenser, Webcam mic, and so on. My requirements were:
1. It must be easy to hook up and not require a bunch of elaborate equipment such as a phantom power supply. The TC 30 USB mic is, as its name says, connected to a USB port. Simple plug-and-play.
2. It should be quiet and not include a bunch of background noise on recordings. The TC30 comes with a shock mounting and a pop filter, and the signal to noise ratio is 68dB. Frequency response is 50Hz to 20kHz. If you wonder how adequate that is, do a sound test (there are lots them on YouTube) and see how good your frequency range is. I can hear from about 69Hz to 7500 kHz.
3. It should include a pop filter because I tend to pop my Ps into the microphone all the time. The Tonor TC30 has a very sturdy pop filter, approximately 3.5 by 3.5 inches. The mounting to the mic is very sturdy, eliminating the possibility of slipping during use. (Yes, I've had more than one droopy pop filter.)
4. It must be compatible with and work well with the software I use most. My programs are Audacity, Zoom, and Dragon NaturallySpeaking 15. Working with Audacity is excellent, with Zoom is very good, and with Dragon is functional (I think my PC, even though new, is running slow.)
5. It must be reasonably priced. I'm rather stingy, so I looked for a new mic in the $30 range, and found the Tonor30 USB.
6. It should come with good documentation, related to performance specs. Yes, it does.
Things I like about the TC 30
1. If you like to make unboxing videos for YouTube, The TC30 is a great choice. The microphone is packaged in a beautiful box using high density foam like an expensive camera would be.
2. There is a web site and an email address right on the box--and on the instruction manual--if you need customer support.
3. There is a two-year warranty.
4. Included at no extra charge are the pop filter and desktop tripod.
5. The microphone includes a shock mounting that attaches to the tripod, keeping out much extraneous noise.
6. The Tonor TC30 is rugged looking and appears to be solidly built. If you are looking for a mic for podcasts, this one has very impressive gravitas (it looks great).
Bottom Line: If you want a very nice mic for $30 or so, check this one out. I am very pleased with it.
Clean Hands Declaration: I have not received any payment or incentive to write this review or to express favorable opinions about the product. If you click on the ad for this product and purchase it from Amazon, I will be paid a small fee.
