Samson C03U and SP01 Outfit

Samson C03U and SP01 Outfit

Following on the success of the C01U, Samson is proud to introduce the C03U, multi-pattern USB studio condenser microphone. Based on the extremely popular C03 studio condenser, the C03U delivers the same pristine audio quality and enhanced capabilities along with a high quality A/D converter and USB output. The C03U features dual 19mm internal shock mounted diaphragms with switchable omni, cardioid, and figure-8 pick-up patterns. Perfect for recording vocals or any acoustic instrument plus the selectable patterns make it ideal for a variety of specialized recording situations, like multiple vocalists, ambient room miking, and even a group of people around a conference table recording a Podcast.

User Ratings and Reviews

3 Stars Sounds Great Problems at First
This mic sounds really nice. I use it for podcasting. It worked for 1 day and then died. The reseller never returned my calls (useless). I sent it back to the manufacturer to be fixed. It took over a month and a few calls. What a PAIN!. After all that it works wonderfully! My recommendation is to purchase this from a reputable company even if it costs a bit more. I would purchase this again.

5 Stars It’s not my 1st recommendation for speaking mic
Hello, The mic must be for loud recording…Talking in to it like a DJ you’ll be using your outside voice. It does deliver on accurate reproduction. The software is weak.

5 Stars Outstanding Microphone — and a Nice Step Up from the C01U
Like others, I purchased this microphone for Podcasting. And I am extremely happy with the Samson C03U. The audio quality is outstanding, the microphone is constructed like a tank (it weighs a pound, and has the same solid feel as a pro-quality camera like Nikon’s D2X and D200), and it provides the simplicity of a direct digital connection.

I originally considered Samson’s similar C01U, but decided to spring for the C03U. The latter provides three selectable pickup patterns (whereas the C01U has a single fixed pattern), a selectable high-pass filter, and finally, a selectable 10 dB pad. The C01U provides neither of the latter, either.

Bottom line, the Samson C03U provides outstanding audio quality, and is suitable for Podcasting and other recording uses. Buy it, you will not be disappointed!

p.s. Samson’s SP01 Shockmount (included in this bundle) is highly recommended as well, and provides isolation from vibrations and the like. Bear in mind that the SP01 fits both the C03U and the C01U (i.e. there is no SP03).

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Shure SM81 Instrument Microphone

Shure SM81 Instrument Microphone

The Shure SM81 Instrument Condenser Microphone is perfect for acoustic guitarists and Instrumentalists. The SM81 lets you reproduce your instrument with the highest fidelity.The razor flat 20 to 20K frequency response of this low impedance, unidirectional, cardioid condenser mic is faithful to every nuance of your expression. Built-in 10Db attenuator. Requires phantom power from board or external source.The Shure SM81 is a high-quality, unidirectional condenser microphone designed for studio recording, broadcasting, and sound reinforcement. Its wide frequency response, low noise characteristics, and low RF susceptibility have made it a standard for applications involving acoustic instruments, especially guitar, piano, and cymbals.The SM81 is ruggedly constructed. It operates on phantom power and performs over a wide range of temperatures and humidity conditions. It is furnished with a swivel adapter, attenuator-switch lock, foam windscreen, and case for carrying and storage. Other accessories are available.Shure SM81FeaturesA standard for acoustic instruments, including guitar and cymbals20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency responseFlat response curve for accurate reproduction of sound sourcesLow noise and high output clipping levelLow distortion over a wide range of load impedancesCardioid polar pattern, uniform with frequency and symmetric about axis, providing maximum rejection and minimum coloration of off-axis soundsLow RF susceptibilitySelectable low-frequency response: flat, 6 or 18 dB/octave rolloff0 dB/10 dB lockable attenuator switchPhantom powering (DIN 45 596 voltages of 12 to 48 Vdc)Rugged steel construction for durabilityField-usable over wide range of temperature and humidity conditionsWindscreen included

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Shure KSM44 Large Dual Diaphragm Microphone

Shure KSM44 Large Dual Diaphragm Microphone

The Shure KSM44 Condenser Microphone is a multiple pattern (cardioid, omnidirectional, bidirectional), externally biased, dual large diaphragm (1-inch) mic with extremely low self-noise (7dB). Developed to meet the needs of studio recording musicians, the warm, rich sound of the KSM44 delivers exceptional performance, tailored to deliver vivid reproduction of voice for the most critical recordings. The KSM44 also offers great flexibility in a variety of recording applications, working well on acoustic and amplified instruments, as its capacity for managing high SPLs (thanks to a 15dB attenuation switch) accommodates loud sound sources such as drums and guitar amplifiers. Frequency response is 20Hz – 20kHz and an internal shock mount is provided to reduce unwanted handling noise. A locking aluminum case and a color-matched ShureLock elastic-suspension shock mount are included.Shure KSM44/SL FeaturesDual 1-inch, externally biased, ultra-thin, 2.5 micron, 24-karat gold-layered, low mass, Mylar diaphragms provide superior transient response.Class A, discrete, transformerless preamplifier for transparency, extremely fast transient response and no crossover distortion. Minimizes harmonic and intermodulation distortions.Full-range frequency response (20 Hz – 20 KHz) for an extremely accurate reproduction of voice and instruments.Extremely low self noise (7 dBA) for critical studio vocal recording.Premium electronic components and gold-plated internal and external connectorsSubsonic filter eliminates rumble from mechanical vibration below 17 Hz.15 dB attenuation switch for handling high input SPL sound sources3-position switchable low-frequency filter virtually eliminates unwanted background noise and controls proximity effectDurable zinc die-cast housing and hardened low carbon steel grille to protect the cartridge from accidental drops or misuse<

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Samson Q1UCW Handheld USB Mic with Cakewalk Creator

Samson Q1UCW Handheld USB Mic with Cakewalk Creator

The Samson Q1U USB Microphone features a smooth sounding neodymium element, capable of handling high SPL, cleverly interfaced to an onboard high quality mic pre, A/D converter and USB output. The Q1U is perfect for recording your music, podcast or any acoustic audio source on your favorite DAW (Digital Audio Workstation). Just plug in the supplied USB cable, launch your DAW and start recording. For expanded control, download the Samson Softpre applet software from Samson’s website and you¨ll have additional features like programmable GAIN, Low Cut Filter, Input Metering and Phase switch. The Q1U faithfully reproduces a variety of sound sources including vocals, acoustic instruments and overhead cymbals, to name a few and because the Q1U can handle high SPL, you can use it on drums or in front of a loud guitar amp. The extended frequency and fast transient response insures an accurate reproduction with linear characteristics from bottom to top.

User Ratings and Reviews

4 Stars The Samson Q1UCW USB Mic
The microphone is great and works well.

The Cakewalk software is a pain, however, and doesn’t work right with my computer for some reason. I ended up using another DAW which works fine, so overall I was pleased with the microphone.

4 Stars Good Mic
This is a good mic for a novice and for podcasting. Easy to use and works well. When using two or more for interview/discussion you either need to place them close together or do some serious post production as the pickup is not as directional as I’d like to see and you will get bleed from other speakers. For a novice like me, this means you will hear talker 2 on the mic 1 track. If mic 1 is too far away from talker 2 you will get an echo in your mix because the sound from talker 2 on the mic 1 track is out of phase with the sound of talker 2 on the mic 2 track. Again, this is a novice talking to other novices. For the experienced sound person, I am sure there are many ways to work around and I wouldn’t consider it a defect of the product just something to understand if you are doing a podcast and planning to have more than one talker.

5 Stars Great Mic!
My daughter gave this microphone as a gift to one of her friends, and she loves it! It hooks up easily to a Macbook (or any Mac or PC) and records well in Garageband. It picks up vocals and acoustic instruments exceptionally well. My daughter wants one for herself!

2 Stars microphone
Gave this microphone to my grandaughter. Although the microphone worked great the cakewalk software was very difficult to use. So the microphone is rarely used.

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Audio Technica AT4040 Condenser Microphone

Audio Technica AT4040 Condenser Microphone

The Audio Technica AT4040 Cardioid Condenser Studio Microphone is a versatile large-diaphragm mic that features a true condenser design which is externally polarized and utilizes Audio-Technica’s latest transducer technology with state-of-the-art surface-mount electronics and transformerless circuitry. Audio-Technica’s engineering team developed an entirely new large-diaphragm element for the AT4040, designed specifically to provide smooth, natural sonic characteristics with a wide dynamic range and the ability to handle extremely high SPL’s. The AT4040 has a cardioid polar pattern and utilizes an aged, vapor-deposited-gold large-diaphragm capacitor element. A nickel-plated brass element baffle has been precision-machined to provide enhanced element stability and optimal sensitivity. An open acoustical environment of the symmetrical housing assembly minimizes unwanted internal reflections. In addition, the AT4040’s two-micron-thick diaphragm provides accurate reproduction of even the subtlest sounds without sacrificing high-frequency performance. The AT4040 features an extended flat frequency response (20-20,000 Hz), a wide dynamic range (133 dB, 1 kHz at max SPL), and can handle high SPL’s (up to 145 dB, 1 kHz at 1% T.H.D., 155 dB with 10 dB pad). The AT4040’s distinctive transformerless circuitry virtually eliminates low-frequency distortion and retains the ability to deliver high-speed transients. The AT4040 requires 48V phantom power and has a switchable low-frequency roll-off (at 80 Hz, 12 dB/octave). In addition, a heavy-duty Audio-Technica AT8449 shock mount is included to provide mechanical isolation and secure mounting, as is a dust cover and protective microphone carrying case.Audio Technica AT4040 FeaturesDesigned for professional recording and critical applications in broadcast and live soundExternally-polarized (DC bias) true condenser designTechnically-advanced large diaphragm tensioned specifically

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