MAONO Podcast Equipment Bundle: Audio Interface mixer with Dual XLR Input for Podcast Streaming - MaonoCaster E2 Gen2

I have a podcast and wanted to take my sound to a different level, so I did my research on different interfaces. It was between this one and the Rode caster and I decided to go with this one due to better reviews for the price point. I was not disappointed, it’s very easy to use and very high-quality. The instruction manual is very descriptive and easy to read. You can also go online to the website for more in-depth instructions and videos.The interface comes with 8 sound-pads that ARE NOT preloaded, however you can add your sounds to them. It took me a while to figure it out but the instruction manual says you have to record your sound to the sound pads. I didn’t want to record sounds due to already having pre-recorded sounds. On the website I watched a video and learned that you can also upload any pre-recorded sounds you have either through “Bluetooth” or by connecting your device to the “Aux” cord (which is included). Love it!The interface has Bluetooth capability so you can play sounds through any device which you’re recording for easy playback. There’s gain knobs for each mic, 48v power buttons for each mic, noise cancellation, reverb, music and pad volume. This machine is a BEAST! I have it paired with the Maono PD200 XLR mic and the sound quality is GREAT!BUY THIS! You’ll be highly satisfied! Take your time and learn how to work it. Read the manual and go on the Maono site. This interface is LEGIT!!

I do live streaming in the field using two mics and having a music background for the intro and ending. The Maono Caster E2 Gen2 was the answer to having an easy to set up, versatile and functional audio mixer console. The unit was used in the field twice before this review.In preparing for a video shoot, the following are attached to the console: Sennheiser G4 Wireless and the Maono USB/XLR Dynamic microphones to the XLR inputs, Sony WH-CH700N into the headphone output, and USB-C audio out to MacBook Air. The iPhone is connected via Bluetooth. Video recording on OBS and program is live streamed. (Not shown is the Canon VIXIA HF G50 connected to a MacBook Air). The hook ups are solid. The unit is very light in weight and the fact it is battery powered is a bonus.The set up was in a lecture hall with the wireless mic on the presenter. The announcer is on the other microphone. The background music via Bluetooth from the iPhone for the video intro and ending. Sound is monitored off the Maono Caster via wired headphones.The audio on the livestream went perfectly. It was very easy to adjust sound and have the music fade in and out. There was no loss of connection with the Bluetooth during production. The settings were kept pretty much at the 0 (zero) position. There were no clicks when shutting off/on the announcer mic. The built-in battery lasted through an hour session and it looked like it could go on for another two plus hours (didn’t attempt to time a full battery drain). The other features were not used since only straight audio was needed.Before doing the first video shoot, I played around with the settings and it’s good to try things out before hitting the road. The OBS audio is automatic set at max. Did some practice on the live stream and everything went well. I also did some test recording on Voice Memos, and all went well. What you hear is what you get.I don’t have any drawbacks to this unit although I trust the built-in rechargeable battery will last for several years. Other than that, the Maono Caster is a portable, well built, sturdy sound mixer in hard plastic casing. It’s easy to set up and use. The instructions are very clear and the set up card is extremely helpful. This is a great portable mixer.

For me, a new podcaster with no sound/mixer experience, the MaonoCaster E2 Gen2 is a solid piece of podcasting equipment that delivers excellent value for the price. The intuitive design made setup easy, and the dual XLR combo inputs are a great upgrade over the previous model and record high-quality audio. The USB-C port allows seamless connections to my computer, making it a versatile tool for podcast recording. I've used it mostly while attached to a power source, but I have only recorded a few hours on the battery supply. After a couple of hours of recording, there was no drop in battery bars, so it seems like you could run it for hours off battery alone.I had a minor issue with my unit and contacted customer service. They responded immediately and shipped a replacement without hassle, arriving within the same week. That level of support is rare and much appreciated.If you're looking for an affordable, all-in-one podcasting setup with excellent support, the MaonoCaster E2 Gen2 is a great choice.

I like this device a lot. Wish I could keep it plugged in while using and not rely on the battery all the time.Interface is easy to use and a good value for the money.

The Maono AME2 Gen 2 is amazing! I have now used it with a variety of different mics, including the Rode Podmic and Shure SM7B and it pushes those microphones wonderfully. The upgrades over the original were much needed and very appreciated. The sound is great and the pre amps included seem to be even cleaner than the original and the pre amps included noise is negligible and on par with much more expensive options. I recommend this amazing little mixer/soundboard with a good conscience. By this unit, and thank me later, if you are in the market for affordable, professional level equipment.. Maono has definitely stepped up their game with the GEN 2!!

Very user friendly beginner mixer.i like it a lot,I just wished Maono would of added a sd or micro-sd to it.but overall great unit for the price.

This is by far one of the easiest most user-friendly podcast mixes I’ve ever used. The only thing I have against it is its inability to record multiple microphones on multiple channels with most software. Be careful if you need to record two audio sources, it may not be able to do it, but it also could be a windows 11 thing. Overall, it’s great. It’s lightweight and it does just what it’s supposed to do. Some of the pods are a little iffy when turning things up and down but for the money, you’ll get over it really quick.