Studio-class condenser microphones were, for a long time, too costly for non-professional use. Prices have fallen but most models use XLR connectors and require a 48v power supply, so cannot be connected directly to a computer.

The MXL Desktop Recording Kit, sold in the UK by Yamaha, gets round both problems by bundling a battery-powered mic with an XLR-to-miniplug adapter lead.

You also get a 0.25in jack adapter, a mini-tripod stand, and a standard XLR cable that can draw external power if you switch off the mic’s 9v PP3 battery.

MXL sees musicians or podcasters using the kit for recording with laptops on the road, but it is also a good choice for any PC (or camcorder) user who requires this class of input.