Review: MAONO PD300X microphone with BA37 Boom Arm

In this blog post, you will learn all about the features, advantages and disadvantages of the MAONO PD300X microphone with BA37 boom arm and how it can be used for podcasting, streaming and gaming.

Technical data

Type : Dynamic microphone
Directional characteristic : Cardioid
Connectors : XLR & USB-C
Bit depth & sample rate : 24-bit/192kHz
Frequency response : 40Hz-16kHz
Gain control : 0 to +42dB
Sensitivity : XLR: -52dBV, USB: -10.5dBFS/Pa(Max)
Maximum sound pressure level : >130dB SPL
Compatible devices : PC, smartphone and consoles
RGB lighting: button for adjustment is illuminated
Mute button: to mute the microphone
3 in 1 button: Change the headphone and microphone volume as well as mixer ratio for headphone output
Recommended use : Podcasting, recording, streaming, gaming

Packaging contents

The Maono PD300X including BA37 Boom Arm comes with the following scope of delivery:

PD300X microphone
(USB-A adapter) USB-C to USB-C cable
BA37 Boom Arm
Shock mount for microphones (microphone spider)
User manual

Design and Build Quality

The housing is made of metal and is very robust and stable. The workmanship is impeccable. The metal housing also helps prevent disturbing noises thanks to its shielding properties.

All buttons on the microphone are illuminated, easy to reach and offer pleasant haptic feedback.

Furthermore, the 3-in-1 button for changing the headphone and microphone volume as well as the mixer ratio for the headphone output offers a visual visualization of the current setting as well as a visualization of the current speaking level.

Installation and setup

The MAONO PD300X is designed for use with a boom arm or tripod. The included 3/8- or 5/8-inch screw adapter can also be used for this purpose.

For optimal adjustment and use of the microphone, the Maono Link software is available and can be easily downloaded from maono.com.

Sound quality

In our test, we were able to achieve the best sound quality at a distance of 5-10 cm, but even at greater distances, the sound quality does not deteriorate as drastically as with comparable models.

In the Maono Link software, you can adjust the gain based on the distance – this is very practical.

Number13.de · PD300X

Podcasters and streamers

The sound quality for streamers and podcasters is very good, as you are usually at the optimal distance from the microphone, which provides the best sound.

The microphone's noise cancellation helps to effectively remove distracting background noise. This results in a very clear and interference-free sound – ideal for streamers and podcasters.

Various settings on the microphone and in the Maono Link software help to optimize the sound quality and control the voice output.

Gamers

When gaming, the distance to the microphone is usually a bit greater, but here the situation is better with the PD300X compared to previously tested Maono microphones.

The improved design of the microphone is particularly noticeable here – especially the positioning of the capsule inside the microphone.

In the Maono Link software, you can adjust the microphone gain according to the distance and also activate active noise cancellation.

The noise reduction effectively filters out otherwise audible background noises.

The combination of software and hardware enables a clear sound even at greater distances – this is especially important for gamers.

The sound changes slightly with increasing distance and no longer sounds quite as precise, but is still good.

Noise reduction

In addition to active noise cancellation via software, various hardware features of the microphone also ensure that disturbing noises are minimized.

In our test, we were able to significantly reduce background noise without negatively affecting the recording quality.

The passive noise reduction already delivers good results, but the active noise reduction in the Maono Link software is particularly impressive due to its effective reduction of background noise.

USB vs. XLR connection

USB port : Perfect for instant recording without the need for additional equipment. Simply connect to your computer and start recording—ideal for mobile applications or use on the go.
This option is particularly attractive for individual podcasters and streamers looking for a straightforward and cost-effective solution.
XLR connector : The ideal choice for those who already have a professional setup with an amplifier, interface or mixer.

Conclusion on the PD300X USB/XLR microphone

Compared to its predecessors, the microphone offers significantly improved sound quality, increased sensitivity at greater distances and angles, and good noise suppression.

Visually, the microphone makes a neutral impression, but the workmanship is high-quality.

In addition to various setting options on the microphone itself, LEDs for visualizing various settings, including the current level, are also helpful.

The Maono Link software offers many settings and presets.

For a price of under 100 euros, the microphone is a recommendation for gaming, streaming, podcasts and general audio recording.