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

I’ve been podcasting for a while now and was previously using a standard retail audio interface. It worked, but as someone who runs both a home-based podcast studio and a mobile recording setup, I needed something more versatile—something I could throw in a bag, take on the road, and still run a full two-person (or more) podcast without sacrificing quality or control. The MAONO MaonoCaster E2 Gen2 absolutely delivered on that goal. First Impressions & Overall Design The E2 Gen2 is an all-in-one podcasting powerhouse. This is the kind of interface that lets you show up with just this unit and your microphones and still run a polished, professional show. The layout is intuitive, clean, and clearly designed with creators in mind—no menu diving or confusing signal routing. My one and only complaint (and I truly mean only one) is the plastic body. Functionally, it’s solid and stable, but I do wish it had a metal chassis. I use another system from Synido with a similar feature set and a metal body at a lower price point. If MAONO ever upgrades the build materials on this unit, it would be nearly unstoppable. That said, the performance more than makes up for it. Audio Performance – Clean, Powerful, and Flexible This interface features dual XLR combo inputs with premium low-noise preamps delivering up to 60dB of gain. That’s a huge win for dynamic microphones. I did not need an external preamp—gain levels are strong, clean, and consistent. Noise reduction does exactly what it should: background fan noise and ambient clutter are noticeably reduced, keeping vocals front and center. Whether you’re recording or live streaming, the audio stays crisp and controlled. I’ve even managed to run up to four microphones in my setup using additional routing, which speaks volumes about how flexible this system really is. Ports & Connectivity – Built for Real-World Creators The port selection on the E2 Gen2 is impressive and well thought out: Inputs • 2 × XLR combo inputs (mic/instrument) • Bluetooth audio input (perfect for background music or call-ins) • AUX-IN • USB-C input (phone/tablet/computer) Outputs • STREAM OUT 1 & 2 • USB-C output to computer • Headphone monitoring • 3.5mm audio output Switching between devices is seamless. I can connect to my laptop, phone, or tablet without reconfiguring my entire setup, which is exactly what I need for a mobile studio. Customization & Creative Tools This is where the E2 Gen2 really shines. • 8 programmable sound pad buttons, each supporting up to 20 seconds of audio • Fully adjustable volume per pad • Perfect for intro music, transitions, drops, or sound effects • Pitch-changing voice effects (great for fun segments or privacy) • Six preset reverbs to set the mood of your show • SingAlong mode, which lets you hear vocals without sending them to the audience—great for performers The ability to customize EQ, effects, and pads makes this feel less like a basic interface and more like a portable broadcast console. Convenience Features • One-touch mute button (absolute lifesaver) • Monitoring button for real-time voice feedback • Loopback function for live streaming using a single computer • Built-in 1500mAh battery with up to 8 hours of use, making it ideal for travel and on-location recording This is one of the few interfaces I’ve used that truly understands how podcasters and streamers work in real life. Final Thoughts I’m genuinely stunned by how much this unit can do—and how well it does it. The MaonoCaster E2 Gen2 gives me more options, more control, and more creative freedom than my previous interface ever could. For a two-person podcast setup, this could easily be your only piece of equipment besides microphones. Yes, I wish it had a metal body—but that’s my only gripe in an otherwise extremely capable system. After using this, I’m very interested in exploring more MAONO products to see if they can replace additional pieces of my current gear. Their lineup looks promising, and this interface has definitely earned my respect. Highly recommended for podcasters, streamers, and content creators—especially those who need flexibility, portability, and professional features in one compact unit. Sorry about the pictures I will update them soon! I had about thirty seconds for pictures building a portable studio!

This really is an all in one audio interface! I mainly use it for playing guitar on amplitube or using my XLR mic while gaming but it also does great for streaming setups. The sound pad presets are convenient and I can use the loop back feature to play my music through my mic input in game which is cool. Much cheaper than the Rode Caster and does the same thing! I also use it to play music/game audio from my PC through my big PA system which is nice.

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!!

All good, best set for audio, good price and great value to my podcast! It works with Bluetooth and also via USB cable! All is from good quality, sound, materials! and it has good size too!

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.

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 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.

Solid item, not as strong of a build, all plastic, but it works, no mix boom arm, and weak mic attachments for mounting, other than that it works for what it’s supposed to