Today, I’m reviewing the MAONO PD300X USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone. The PD300X comes with some sound quality upgrades compared to the PD200X. The price is between $80 and $99, depending on where you buy.
Disclaimer: This sample was provided by Maono for an honest review. All observations and opinions here are my own, based on my experience with the product.
Maono PD300X
Table of Contents
Design & Features
Just like the PD200X, my first impressions of the PD300X were very positive right out of the box. That’s largely due to the fact that this new model is very similar externally to the older PD200X. There are some significant differences though, starting with the absence of RGB lighting. I’m not sure why that’s not present with this model but it doesn’t bother me since I always kept the lights turned off anyway.
The Maono PD300X features three handy outputs on the bottom—XLR, USB, and a headphone jack. The XLR and USB options give you flexibility for different setups, whether you’re going pro with an interface or keeping it simple with a direct computer connection. The headphone output is a standout, letting you monitor your mic in real time, so you can hear exactly what’s being captured without any delay—perfect for tweaking on the fly and ensuring your sound is spot-on.
The other external changes are in the multi-function gain dial which has more intuitive level indicators and the shock mount which is now metal and has a significantly more robust suspension system. Pressing the gain dial toggles between the microphone gain and headphone monitor adjustments and the current level is shown via the circular array of LEDs located around the dial.
Located just above the gain dial is a mute button, although it’s only functional when connected via USB and not XLR. The gain dial indicator turns red when the mute function is activated. The mute button is now also multi-functional – a short press toggles the mute on or off and a long press turns on or off the selected multiplex function, of which there are 4: Noise Gate, Mic Monitor, PC Monitor and Headphone output.
The built-in dynamic mic capsule has a frequency response of 40Hz-16KHz and the USB bit depth/sample rate is 24bit/192kHz. Its front-focused cardioid polar pattern effectively rejects unwanted background noise, resulting in clearer recordings.
Maono Link Software
The Maono Link app adds a bunch of functionality to the PD200X. With it, you can control the mic gain, headphone volume, adjust the noise gate and select your preferred multiplex option. In the scene tab, there are several preset modes, including Original, Podcasting, Recording and Gaming. Here you can also fine tune the limiter and compressor. Furthermore, you can add your own preset scenes with a 10-band EQ. The app is super easy to set up and use and it adds a lot of value to the bundle.
Audio Quality
For the price, the Maono PD300X sounds great—seriously, it’s a steal. Whether you plug it in via XLR or USB, the audio quality is excellent, giving you that clear, detailed sound that makes your voice pop. It’s perfect if you’re chatting away on a podcast, streaming, or even hopping on a work call where you want to sound like you know what you’re doing. My voice comes through crisp and natural, with enough depth to make it feel professional without sounding over-processed.
Now, here’s the cool part: the USB option really shines because of the Maono Link software. It’s super flexible—lets you tweak everything from gain to EQ to compression, so you can mold the sound exactly how you want it. I love that I don’t need a ton of extra gear to get that kind of control; it’s just there, ready to go. With XLR, you still get great quality, but you’ll need an interface and some know-how, which isn’t as beginner-friendly.
As for background noise, the PD300X does a pretty decent job of keeping things quiet. It’s not like it’s going to magically erase your noisy roommate or barking dog, but it attenuates enough ambient stuff that your main audio stays front and center. I use it in my less-than-perfect room, and it still manages to keep my voice clear without picking up every little creak or hum.
I threw the ESI cosMik uCast into my testing lineup since they’re similar, although the ESI is considerably more expensive. The PD300X holds its own, no question. It’s a lot more forgiving on plosives (those “p” and “b” sounds) compared to the cosMik uCast, but the overall control and warmth of my voice on the Maono feels nicer.
On the software side, the Maono Link app is a big win. Unlike some mics that leave you high and dry, this one gives you options to play with, so you’re not stuck with whatever raw sound comes out. If you’re into adding filters or getting creative, you’re covered without needing third-party stuff. It’s plug-and-play with a bit of power under the hood, which I’m totally here for.
Verdict
In conclusion, the Maono PD300X is a no-brainer if you’re after great value. Just like the sound, the build quality is solid— that all-metal construction feels sturdy and professional, way better than you’d expect at this price. It’s clear this mic is built to last, whether you’re setting up for podcasts, streams, or calls. Put it all together—the excellent audio, the flexible USB software, and that rock-solid build—and you’ve got an easy recommendation. If you’re looking for quality without breaking the bank, the PD300X is definitely worth grabbing.
Specifications
| Model Name | PD300X |
|---|---|
| Connector Type | USB, USB Type-C, XLR |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
| Element Type | Dynamic |
| Bit Depth/Sample Rate: | 24bit/192kHz |
| Sensitivity | XLR:-52dBV USB:-10.5dBFS/Pa(Max) |
| Max.SPL | ＞130dB SPL |
| Adjustable Gain Range | 0 to+42dB |
| Frequency Response | 40Hz-16kHz |
| Compatible Devices | Laptop, Audio Interface, Personal Computer, MAC iOS, Smartphone |
| Hardware Platform | Audio Interface, PC, Smartphone |