u/Hot_Morning7

I’m looking for a folding bike for suburban roads and paved trails, mostly for short trips and throwing in the car. I’m 6'2" and around 180 lb, so I’m a little worried about buying something compact that feels cramped or twitchy. My budget is roughly $1,200–$2,000, and disc brakes are important to me. I’ve been comparing the Tern Verge D9, Dahon Launch D8, Origami models, Bike Friday, and the Brompton, although the lack of factory disc brakes makes that one harder to justify. Would you choose the Verge D9 for this use, or is there another model with a better ride for a taller rider? Also, are disc brakes really worth prioritizing on a folding bike?

I’m putting together a small two-person podcast at home, but the room isn’t treated and there’s a PC fan, street noise, plus the occasional neighbor deciding it’s time to rearrange furniture. I’m trying to stay around $100–$250 per microphone, so I’ve been comparing the Samson Q2U, Rode PodMic, Audio-Technica ATR2100x-USB, Shure MV7, and maybe a used SM7B if I find one cheap. USB would be easier, but I’m tempted by XLR because I might add a second mic and an interface later. For a beginner setup, would you choose a dynamic mic like the Q2U or PodMic, or is a condenser still fine if it’s positioned close? Also, is the Shure MV7 actually worth the extra money?