Introduction

Maono’s product page for the PD400X microphone contains some bold claims, like the one that 45% of SoundCloud and 40% of YouTube content creators pick it for their podcasting and live streaming endeavors. While I find that very hard to believe, I do have to admit that the company’s name occasionally comes up on the r/audioengineering subreddit, so I approached this review with an open mind. Maono provided me with the sample of the microphone, which I thank them for, and kindly ask them to forgive me that the review took so long to put to proverbial paper. The company also sent me their BA92 microphone arm, a natural pairing for the PD400X, so we’ll take a look at it as well.

The Maono PD400X is a dual input dynamic microphone, equipped with a USB-C input for simple plug & play connectivity, and a XLR input, aimed toward users who own a separate audio interface and are looking for more versatility (and potentially better audio quality). The “duality” of the PD400X is its defining feature, also expressed through its mounting options. You can utilize the aluminium mount, affixed to the body of the microphone, to attach it to any microphone arm with a standard 3/8″ or 5/8″ thread, or you can simply slap the supplied table stand on it, and put the microphone in front of your keyboard. It appears Maono is aiming to provide a microphone that “grows” with its owner – you can start by putting it on the table and connecting it to a free USB port of your computer or smartphone, and eventually level up to a microphone boom arm and a dedicated audio interface.

Specifications

• Capsule: Dynamic
• Polar Patterns: Cardioid
• Frequency response: Not specified
• Sensitivity: -51 dBV (XLR) / -8.5 dBFS/Pa (USB)
• Sample Rate/Resolution: 24-bit/48 kHz
• SPL: > 130 dB
• Ports: USB-C, XLR, 3.5-mm headphone out (direct monitoring)
• Cables: 1.5 m USB-C to USB Type-A, 1.6 m XLR
• Supported platforms: Windows, macOS, Android
• Dimensions: 85 x 220 mm
• Weight: 734 g (microphone only) / 1.04 kg (mic with stand)

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