Microphones / Compare

FIFINE AmpliGame AM8 vs Samson Q2U

A

Product A: FIFINE

AmpliGame AM8

37 of 61 known

Change FIFINE AmpliGame AM8

Compare the Samson Q2U with

Search microphones

B

Product B: Samson

Q2U

37 of 61 known

Change Samson Q2U

Compare the FIFINE AmpliGame AM8 with

Search microphones

All 61 fields

Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

AFIFINE AmpliGame AM8

BSamson Q2U

General

4 of 8 differ

Series

AmpliGame1Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphoneRead 14 October 2026The page title names the AmpliGame AM8. FIFINE sells two series, Ampligame and Amplitank.

Not available

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

AM8, ABCD2216AM8, ABCD2313AM8W, ABCD2314AM8P-NEW1Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Specifications table: Model Number AM8. The maker store lists the base kit as SKU ABCD2216AM8.2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026English specification block: Model Number AM8.4Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products.jsonRead 14 October 2026Base kit SKUs: Black ABCD2216AM8, White ABCD2313AM8W, Pink ABCD2314AM8P-NEW. The AM8T and AM8TNEO kits and the AM8PROT kit have their own SKUs and are not variants here.5Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0BMFQP2ZZRead 14 October 2026Item details: Model Number AM8, manufacturer part number ABCD2216AM8.

SAQ2U1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026The page data names SKU SAQ2U.6Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B001R747SGRead 20 October 2026Model number and Mfr part number SAQ2U.

GTIN / EAN

8500355657975Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0BMFQP2ZZRead 14 October 2026Item details: UPC 850035565797, the Black base kit.

8091640096651Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026The page data gives UPC 809164009665 for SAQ2U. Amazon lists the same code as a 14 digit GTIN 00809164009665.6Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B001R747SGRead 20 October 2026UPC 809164009665 and GTIN 00809164009665. A second EU code 05053959417134 is also listed and is not stored.

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

Not available

January 20097Press articlesweetwater.com/insync/winter-namm-2009-samson-q2uRead 20 October 2026Sweetwater InSync coverage of Winter NAMM 2009, dated 2009-01-14 in the search result. The page itself returned 403 when fetched, so the date and text are from the search result excerpt.

Status

Available1Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphoneRead 14 October 2026The page lists the AM8 in stock at 57.99 USD.

Available1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026The page is live with the current spec table and the Q2U is listed in stock on Amazon US.6Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B001R747SGRead 20 October 2026Amazon US lists the Q2U USB-C Microphone as rank 3 among dynamic microphones with 5,631 ratings.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

$59.995Press releaselanoc.org/news/hardware-news/samson-ces-2017-q2u-recording-and-podcasting-packRead 20 October 2026Samson announced the Q2U Recording and Podcasting Pack at CES 2017 on 2017-01-05, available February 2017 at a list price of $59.99 in the US. This is the pack as sold now, with a windscreen and a stand extension and without the HP20 headphones of the 2009 pack. The 2009 launch price was not found.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

Not available

Not available

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black, White, Pink4Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products.jsonRead 14 October 2026The listing offers the colors Black, White and Pink.

Not available

Microphone typeiElectret condensers count as condenser.

Dynamic1Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Specifications table: Element Dynamic.2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026English specification block: Element Dynamic.

Dynamic1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Specifications: Element Type Dynamic.2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026Introduction and Specifications: dynamic microphone element.

Capsule and pickup

0 of 4 differ

Capsule sizeiDiaphragm diameter of one capsule as published. A 1-inch capsule is 25.4 mm.

Not available

Not available

CapsulesiNumber of capsules. Multi-pattern USB microphones often use three.

12Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026The product diagram names one dynamic microphone capsule.

12Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026Layout item 2 names the capsule in the singular. It prints no capsule count.

Polar patternsiEvery pattern the user can select. Unidirectional is used only when the maker names no exact pattern.

Cardioid1Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Specifications table: Polar Pattern Cardioid.2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026English specification block: Polar Pattern Cardioid.

Cardioid1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Specifications: Polar Pattern Cardioid. The text calls it a cardioid (unidirectional) pattern.2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026Specifications: polar pattern cardioid.

Address typeiEnd address means you speak into the top of the microphone. Side address means you speak into its side.

End address1Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphoneRead 14 October 2026FAQ: to get the best from the dynamic mic, speak into the top of the mic within 2 to 6 inches. The manual calls it an end-addressing dynamic microphone.2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026Guidelines for use: AM8 is an end-addressing dynamic microphone. Always keep the top of the mic facing the audio source.

End address1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026The compare table lists the Q2U as End Address Dynamic.2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026Quick start: point the end of the microphone towards the performer.

Sound specs

4 of 10 differ

Frequency responseiPublished acoustic range of the microphone. A sample rate does not establish it.

Min50 HzMax16 kHz1Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Specifications table: Frequency Response 50-16kHz. No tolerance is given.2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026English specification block: Frequency Range 50Hz-16KHz.

Min50 HzMax15 kHz1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Specifications: Frequency Response 50Hz-15kHz. The compare table of the same page prints 20Hz-18kHz for the Q2U, which differs. The spec table and the manual agree on 50Hz-15kHz, so that is stored.2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026Specifications: Frequency Response 50Hz - 15 kHz.

Sensitivity (analog)iAnalog output level for 94 dB SPL at 1 kHz, as published in dBV. For a microphone with a switchable preamp, the bypass value is used. A value published only in mV/Pa is converted as 20 x log10(mV/Pa / 1000) and rounded to one decimal, so 1.6 mV/Pa is -55.9 dBV/Pa. The printed value goes in the source note. A sensitivity in plain dB with no reference, as many low-cost USB microphones print it, is left out.

Not available

-54dBV/Pa1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Specifications: Sensitivity -54dBV/Pa. The reference level is not printed and 1 Pa is assumed.2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026Specifications: Sensitivity -54 dBV/Pa.

Sensitivity (digital)iDigital output level over USB for 94 dB SPL at 1 kHz. The minimum gain value is used when several are given. The gain setting goes in the source note. On a USB-only microphone use this field only when the maker prints dBFS or ties a dBV value to the USB output, as Shure does for the MV7i. A dBV, dB re 1 V/Pa or mV/Pa value that names no USB output is left out. The printed unit and the gain go in the source note. A value printed for another reference level is converted by the level difference, so -40 dBFS at 80 dB SPL is -26 dBFS at 94 dB SPL. The printed value goes in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Max SPLiHighest sound pressure level at the source's distortion limit. The THD level and output path go in the source note. The value without a clipping protection mode such as Clipguard is used when both are given. The value with the pad off is used. When the maker lists several preamp loads, the highest load is used. The load goes in the source note. On a USB microphone that prints values per gain setting, the minimum gain value is used, as for sensitivity.

120dB SPL1Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Specifications table: Maximum SPL 120dB. No distortion level and no output path are printed, so max_spl_thd_percent is left out. The kit page of the AM8T repeats 120dB in its table but its intro text says 115dB.2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026English specification block: Maximum SPL 120dB. No distortion level is printed.

148dB SPL1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Specifications: Max SPL 148dB SPL. No distortion limit is printed, so max_spl_thd_percent is left out.2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026Specifications: Max SPL 148 dB SPL. No distortion limit is printed.

Max SPL distortion limitiThe distortion level at which the maker states the max SPL, e.g. 1, 3 or 10 % THD. Left out when the maker names none. Max SPL figures compare only at the same limit.

Not available

Not available

Self-noiseiEquivalent noise level, A-weighted, in dB SPL. Lower is quieter. The analog value is used when analog and digital values are both given. A value in dBV or dBFS is left out. On a USB microphone that prints values per gain setting, the minimum gain value is used, as for max SPL.

Not available

Not available

Digital noise flooriDigital noise floor of a USB microphone as printed, usually A-weighted over 20 Hz to 20 kHz. Lower is quieter. Processing that was on during the test goes in the source note. It is not self-noise.

Not available

Not available

Signal-to-noise ratioiAs published. Reference level and weighting go in the source note. The microphone's own figure, not the SNR of a built-in headphone amplifier.

80dB1Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Specifications table: S/N Ratio >80dB. The stored value is the printed bound. Reference level and weighting are not printed.2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026English specification block: S/N Ratio >80dB.

Not available

Dynamic rangeiAs published. The distortion level goes in the source note. The value without a clipping protection mode is used when both are given. Use the same pad setting, preamp load and gain as for max SPL.

Not available

Not available

Output impedanceiRated impedance of the XLR output. For a microphone with a switchable preamp, the bypass value is used. A USB-only microphone has no value here, even when the maker prints an impedance for the capsule. When the maker prints a rated and an actual impedance, as Shure does for the SM58, the rated value is stored and the actual one goes in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Connectivity

1 of 7 differ

OutputsiOutputs that carry the microphone signal to a computer, interface or mixer. A headphone jack does not count. Wireless is a radio link to a receiver, such as 2.4 GHz.

USB, XLR1Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Specifications table: Connector USB and XLR.2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026English specification block: Connector USB-C and XLR. USB-C to a computer or PS4/PS5, XLR to a mixer or audio interface.

USB, XLR1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Specifications: Digital outputs USB-C and analog output XLR. The 1/8 in headphone output does not carry the microphone signal to a computer.2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026Features: dynamic microphone with USB digital output and standard XLR analog output.

Inputs for other sourcesiInputs on the microphone for another microphone or instrument, which it sends to the computer with its own signal.

Not available

Not available

USB and XLR at onceiBoth outputs carry audio at the same time.

Yes7Reviewpodcastage.com/rev/am8Read 14 October 2026Review text: an XLR and USB output which can be used simultaneously. The FIFINE pages do not say this.

Yes7Press articlesweetwater.com/insync/winter-namm-2009-samson-q2uRead 20 October 2026The excerpt says you can even use both outputs simultaneously.10Reviewthepodcasthost.com/equipment/samson-q2u-podcasting-reviewRead 20 October 2026The review says the microphone has USB and XLR connections and can record through both at once.

USB portiUSB socket on the microphone. USB-B is the full-size square socket. A Micro-B socket is Micro-USB, even when the maker writes USB-B.

USB-C2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026The diagram names a Type-C port. The English block lists Connector USB-C and XLR.

USB-C1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Specifications: Digital Ouputs USB-C, and the page photos show a USB-C port on the bottom. The 2021 manual and older retail listings name a Mini-B port, so Samson changed the connector under the same SKU. See the doubts in the report.6Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B001R747SGRead 20 October 2026Amazon lists connector type USB Type-C, built-in media Q2U USB-C Microphone and includes a USB-C cable.8Reviewbuzzsprout.com/blog/samson-q2u-reviewRead 20 October 2026Review of 2026-09-30: the current Q2U uses USB-C and older units use Mini-USB. The USB-C port is a small symmetrical oval next to the XLR connector.

Cable host plugiPlug on the computer end of the included USB cable. An included adapter is listed in In the box.

USB-A5Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0BMFQP2ZZRead 14 October 2026Box list: 6.5ft (2m) USB-C to USB-A cable. The computer end is USB-A.6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/fifine-ampligame-am8Read 14 October 2026Page 1: USB Type-C (mic end) to Type-A 2.0 (computer end) cable.

USB-A1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026The page photo of the box contents (Q2U Accessories-2 USB-C) shows a USB cable with a small USB-C plug for the microphone and a USB-A plug for the computer. No text names the host plug.

Cable lengthiLength of the included USB cable.

2m2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026Box list: 1X 6.5ft (2m) USB Cable.5Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0BMFQP2ZZRead 14 October 2026Box list: 6.5ft (2m) USB-C to USB-A cable.6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/fifine-ampligame-am8Read 14 October 2026Page 1: the rubber USB cable measures approximately 2.0 m.

2.25m1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Features: includes USB cable (2.25m) and XLR cable (3m). The older manual says 10 ft cables.5Press releaselanoc.org/news/hardware-news/samson-ces-2017-q2u-recording-and-podcasting-packRead 20 October 2026Included USB cable 2.25 m and XLR cable 3 m.

Phantom poweriPhantom power for the XLR output. Optional means some XLR modes work without it, for example a built-in preamp in bypass. Supplies means the microphone gives 48 V phantom power to a microphone on its XLR input.

Not required2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026XLR port connection: no preamp or phantom power are needed.

Not required9Reviewcastos.com/samson-q2u-review-an-affordable-and-easy-to-use-mic-for-new-podcastersRead 20 October 2026The review says dynamic mics do not require phantom power. The Q2U is a dynamic microphone with a passive XLR output and the USB side is bus powered. The maker does not state phantom power.

Digital audio

0 of 3 differ

Max bit depthiHighest recording bit depth over USB.

16bits6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/fifine-ampligame-am8Read 14 October 2026Page 1 lists the manufacturer spec Bit Depth/Sample Rate 16-bit/44.1k-48k Hz. Page 2 says the USB output records 16-bit audio at a 48 kHz maximum. The maker store text of the AM8T kit says 48kHz/24-bit, but the same text also says 115dB SPL and 75dB SNR, which its own table contradicts. The AM8 manual and page print no bit depth.7Reviewpodcastage.com/rev/am8Read 14 October 2026Spec list: A/D and D/A 16-bit / 44.1-48kHz. Recording settings: conversion 16-bit / 48kHz.

16bits1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Specifications: Bit Depth up to 16-bit.2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026Specifications: sample rate 44.1/48kHz and bit rate 16bit.

Max sample rateiHighest recording sample rate over USB. This is not the frequency response.

48kHz6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/fifine-ampligame-am8Read 14 October 2026Page 2: USB records at a 48 kHz maximum sample rate. Page 1: 44.1k-48k Hz.7Reviewpodcastage.com/rev/am8Read 14 October 2026Spec list: A/D and D/A 16-bit / 44.1-48kHz.

48kHz1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Specifications: Sample Rate 44.1kHz/48kHz.2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026Specifications: sample rate 44.1/48kHz.

32-bit float recordingiRecords over USB in 32-bit floating point. A 32-bit integer format does not count.

No6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/fifine-ampligame-am8Read 14 October 2026The only recording format named is 16-bit at 44.1 to 48 kHz, so there is no 32-bit float mode.

No1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026The maker lists up to 16-bit, so there is no 32-bit float mode.2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026The manual lists 16bit only.

Monitoring

0 of 2 differ

Headphone outputiA headphone jack on the microphone.

Yes1Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Feature text: 3.5 mm headphone jack with a dedicated headphone volume control, USB connection only.2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026Diagram: headphone jack and headphones volume control.

Yes1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Specifications: Headphone Output 1/8 in (3.5mm).2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026Layout item 8: Headphone Output, a 3.5mm stereo jack.

Zero-latency monitoringiThe headphone output plays the microphone signal directly, before it reaches the computer.

Yes1Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Feature text: the 3.5 mm headphone jack provides latency-free, real-time monitoring. FAQ: hear yourself in real time with no delay.6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/fifine-ampligame-am8Read 14 October 2026Page 2: the 3.5 mm audio jack allows zero latency monitoring of the captured audio.7Reviewpodcastage.com/rev/am8Read 14 October 2026Review text: the 3.5 mm headphone jack offers computer playback and zero latency monitoring.

Yes1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Features: 1/8 in stereo headphone output with level control for zero-latency monitoring.2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026The headphone output gives a mix of the direct signal from the microphone and the playback from the computer. Features: onboard headphone amplifier with level control for zero-latency monitoring.

Controls and processing

1 of 2 differ

Onboard controlsiFunctions you can change on the microphone itself, by knob, button, switch or touch. Settings that exist only in the app do not count. A switch that sets preamp gain steps, such as +18 or +28 dB, counts as gain. Echo is a knob or button for an echo or reverb effect.

Gain, Headphone volume, Mute1Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphoneRead 14 October 2026Feature text: mic gain control, headphone volume control and a tap-to-mute with LED. A touch button controls the RGB lighting. The knobs and the mute work over USB only.2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026Diagram: microphone gain, headphones volume control, mute button with LED indicator and an RGB button. The function keys and headphone monitoring work only over USB-C.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81L6DoDumiL.pdfRead 14 October 2026FAQ Q4: the volume knob on the AM8 controls only the 3.5 mm headphones plugged into the microphone. Q2: the gain knob works in USB mode only.

Headphone volume, Mute1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026The headphone output has level control. The On/Off switch controls both the USB and XLR audio output, which the page also calls a microphone mute switch. The page lists no gain control and Samson's manual sets the gain in the computer.2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026Controls: On/Off Switch, Headphone Volume. The On/Off switch turns the USB and XLR outputs on or off. Input gain is computer-controlled.8Reviewbuzzsprout.com/blog/samson-q2u-reviewRead 20 October 2026No onboard gain knob. A physical off switch mutes between takes. Samson's specs list a headphone level control and an on/off switch.

Onboard processingiProcessing inside the microphone, analog or digital, that works without the maker's app running. A maker statement that settings are saved in the microphone counts. Effects that run only in the app on the computer do not count. An expander counts as noise gate. Clip protection such as Clipguard is clip protection. Limiter is only for a limiter the maker lists as its own effect, never both for one feature. Brand names such as APHEX or Clipguard go in the source note. Attenuation pad is a switch that lowers the capsule output, such as -15 dB. Echo is an echo or reverb effect in the microphone. Exciter or bass enhancer covers effects that add harmonics or bass, such as APHEX Aural Exciter and Big Bottom.

Not available

Not available

Mounting and accessories

3 of 4 differ

Mount threadsiStand threads the microphone or its included mount accepts, also with an included adapter.

5/8 inch, 3/8 inch1Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphoneRead 14 October 2026FAQ: the thread size is standard 5/8 and 3/8 inch on the AM8 yoke. A scissor arm stand needs no adapter.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81L6DoDumiL.pdfRead 14 October 2026FAQ Q3: the AM8 has 3/8 and 5/8 inch mic threads.

Not available

Shock mountiInternal is suspension inside the body. Included is a separate shock mount in the box. A cradle or ring mount that comes fitted to the microphone or its stand is included, even when the maker calls it built-in. A microphone with internal suspension and a separate shock mount in the box is included.

Not available

Internal2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026Layout item 2: capsule, an internally shock mounted dynamic microphone element.

Pop filteriPop protection built in or in the box.

Foam windscreen2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026Box list: 1X dynamic microphone with windscreen. The diagram names a flocking windscreen.

Internal, Foam windscreen1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026The package includes a windscreen to minimize wind noise and plosives. The manual also names a dual stage grill that helps reduce p-popping.2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026Layout item 1: dual stage grill that helps reduce wind noise and p-popping. The pack includes a large foam windscreen.8Reviewbuzzsprout.com/blog/samson-q2u-reviewRead 20 October 2026The foam windscreen tames plosive bursts.

Desk stand includediA desk stand or base in the box. A yoke alone does not count. A boom arm does not count either. In the box names it.

Yes2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026Box list: 1X mic base stand. The user screws the base stand into the microphone.

Yes1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Features: includes mic clip, tripod stand, tripod stand extension. The text names a desktop tripod stand.2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026The Q2U includes a tripod desktop microphone stand with an extension piece.

Design and build

2 of 3 differ

Housing material

ABS plastic and metal5Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0BMFQP2ZZRead 14 October 2026Enclosure material: ABS plastic, metal. The APH Networks review describes a plastic body, a metal yoke and base and a metal capsule enclosure.6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/fifine-ampligame-am8Read 14 October 2026Page 2: a black shell with a plastic enclosure, a metal arm, a metal capsule enclosure and a metal base.

Die-cast1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Features: solid, die-cast construction with heavy gauge mesh grille.

RGB lightingiDecorative lighting. Status and mute lights alone do not count. RGB lighting is lighting with no function. A level meter or mute indicator is not RGB lighting, even when its colour can be chosen. Lighting that changes colour on its own counts, even when it also turns off on mute.

Yes1Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphoneRead 14 October 2026A touch button switches between 3 lighting modes and 8 solid colors. The lighting is decorative and is inactive in XLR mode.

No1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026The complete feature list names only a dual-color Power/Clip LED, which is a status light. It names no decorative lighting.2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026Layout item 3: the dual color Power/Clip LED lights green for power and flashes red on overload. It is a status light.

Lighting zonesiIndependently controllable lighting areas.

Not available

Not available

Software

1 of 2 differ

SoftwareiThe maker's app for the microphone.

Not available

Not available

User firmware updatesiA public updater or a documented firmware update procedure exists for this exact model.

Not available

Yes1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Downloads: Q2U Firmware Updater v3 (Windows).3Maker product pagesamsontech.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/360045374974-Q2U-Firmware-UpdateRead 20 October 2026Samson support article with a firmware updater v3 and steps for rev 2 and rev 3 Q2U hardware.

Compatibility

2 of 2 differ

Works withiOperating systems the maker lists for USB audio. App support can be narrower.

Windows, macOS2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026Computer setup for Windows and Mac OS.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81L6DoDumiL.pdfRead 14 October 2026FAQ Q1: compatible with most desktop and laptop PCs (Windows and Mac OS) and some smartphones and tablets. Only Windows and macOS are stored, since phone and tablet use needs adapters and is not listed per system.6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/fifine-ampligame-am8Read 14 October 2026Page 2: according to FIFINE the AM8 is compatible with Windows and Mac OS.

Windows, macOS, ChromeOS, iOS, iPadOS, Android1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Features: USB output for connecting to Mac, PC, or Chromebook.5Press releaselanoc.org/news/hardware-news/samson-ces-2017-q2u-recording-and-podcasting-packRead 20 October 2026Works with Mac and PC, with iPhone and iPad through Apple's Lightning to USB Camera Adapter and with Android through a host OTG cable.

ConsolesiConsoles the maker lists for USB audio.

PlayStation1Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphoneRead 14 October 2026FAQ: PS5 works with the included USB cable. Xbox does not work, so it is not listed.2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026USB-C connection to a computer or PS4/PS5.3Maker spec sheet (PDF)m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81L6DoDumiL.pdfRead 14 October 2026FAQ Q1: compatible with the PlayStation 4 and 5 consoles and not compatible with the Xbox console.

Not available

Dimensions and weight

3 of 3 differ

Microphone dimensionsiMicrophone body without a stand or a detachable shock mount. A fixed yoke is included. Width is left to right as seen by the speaker, height is bottom to top in normal use and depth is front to back. Orient the microphone as in use on its yoke or stand. Depth is the direction it points at the speaker, height is up and width is across. An upright side-address microphone has its length as height. An end-address microphone has its length as depth, also when it is held in the hand. A round microphone with only a length and a diameter uses the diameter for the other two sides. The source note states the mapping.

Not available

Width55Height55Depth190mm(2.2 × 2.2 × 7.5 in)1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Specifications: 7.5 in (190mm) x 2.2 in (55mm) diameter. The microphone is end-address and handheld, so the 190 mm length is the depth and the 55 mm diameter is used for width and height.2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026Specifications: 7.5 in x 2.2 in (diameter) / 190 mm x 55 mm (diameter).

Microphone weightiWithout stand, detachable shock mount and cable. A fixed yoke is included.

Not available

317.5g(11.2 oz)2Owner's manualstorage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdfRead 20 October 2026Specifications: 11.2oz / 317.5g. The product page rounds this to 0.7 lb (0.32 kg).

Weight with standiWith the included stand or mount attached, without the cable. An included shock mount between the microphone and the stand counts.

581g(1.3 lb)6Reviewaphnetworks.com/reviews/fifine-ampligame-am8Read 14 October 2026Page 2: 581 g on its included base, of which 181 g is the base. This is the microphone with the base stand. The cable is not stated as included. The microphone alone is not stated, so weight_g is left out.

Not available

Certifications

1 of 1 differ

Other certifications

CE marking2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026Eligible to bear CE marking.

Not available

In the box

1 of 1 differ

In the box

Dynamic Microphone with Windscreen, 6.5ft (2m) USB-C to USB-A Cable, Mic Base Stand, User's Manual2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026Box list as printed: 1X mic base stand, 1X user's manual, 1X dynamic microphone with windscreen, 1X 6.5ft (2m) USB cable. The Amazon listing spells the cable as a USB-C to USB-A cable.5Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0BMFQP2ZZRead 14 October 2026Box list: dynamic microphone with windscreen, 6.5ft (2m) USB-C to USB-A cable, mic base stand, user's manual. The XLR cable and a boom arm are not included.

Q2U microphone, Mic clip, Tripod stand, Tripod stand extension, Foam windscreen, USB cable (2.25m), XLR cable (3m)1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Features: includes mic clip, tripod stand, tripod stand extension, foam windscreen, USB cable (2.25m) and XLR cable (3m). The microphone itself is added to the list.

Links

Not compared

Product page

fifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphone1Maker product pagefifinemicrophone.com/products/fifine-ampligame-am8-microphoneRead 14 October 2026

samsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2u1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026

Spec sheet

Not available

Not available

Manual

m.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdf2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026FIFINE AM8 user's guide, version 26-V2, created 2025-02. The Amazon listing links this PDF as the User Manual. It is a single image page in several languages.

storage.googleapis.com/samson-production/uploads/documents/Q2U_OM_5L_v7.pdf1Maker product pagesamsontech.com/products/microphones/usb-microphones/q2uRead 20 October 2026Downloads: Q2U Owners Manual (5 Language) v7. The manual describes the earlier Mini-B USB model, see usb_connector.

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

1 of 1 differ

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

1year2Owner's manualm.media-amazon.com/images/I/D1iFFBg5eXL.pdfRead 14 October 2026Limited warranty of one year from the original date of purchase.5Retailer pageamazon.com/dp/B0BMFQP2ZZRead 14 October 2026Warranty description: 1 year warranty.

2years4Maker product pagesamsontech.com/support/warranty-informationRead 20 October 2026Samson Audio products carry a two year warranty in the USA, with proof of purchase.

Both are also in the API. Back to all microphones.