Let the hive mind of Engadget get that for you.
"I've found myself using my PC for a lot of conversations lately, and I'm also considering recording a podcast to share with anyone who will listen. There are tons of USB headset / microphones out there, and I'm hoping someone has some solid recommendations based on experience. I'll consider both headsets and standalone mics, by the way, but I'd like to keep the bill under $100 if possible. Help!"
While expensive could be viewed as relative, for this site, it is relative to the gadgets presented on this site. Compared to the gadgets displayed on this site, especially when you factor in what it does, it is expensive. Hell, I am willing to spend $2,000 on 2 channel amps to power my home theater system and plan to bi-amp each speaker and I still consider it expensive, I also consider my amps as expensive.
Besides, I think you are getting worked up over nothing. This isn't Home Theater Mag, AVSForum or some other home stereo or home theator site who's niche is to give the reader a good review of the product and it merits. This is just a blog about new gadgets and technology where opinion rains supreme (especially Apple products), not a in depth review of them.