So I may be getting one of these, although I have a Blue Snowball, which I like a lot.

From Amazon:
Samson CO1U USB Condenser Microphone

The C01U USB Studio Condenser Mic is the first affordable studio condenser mic with a USB interface.

For the first time ever, musicians who record music on computers have a simple, affordable way to capture high-quality vocal and acoustic instrument performances.

Seamless integration was the idea, and it was obtained by creating a studio condenser microphone that can be plugged into any computer with no in/out boxes, no expensive computer pre-amps, just a USB cable.

The C01U condenser microphone is based on our wildly successful C01. It features a 19mm internal shock mounted diaphragm with a cardioid pick up pattern ensuring pristine studio quality recordings.

The C01U works perfectly on any computer, Mac or PC, and with any DAW software program. It immediately solves a huge problem for users of many laptops, many of which have no other input method for audio devices.

It’s a must for any musician on the road or in the project studio, but the C01U is going to offer solutions to more than just musicians. The mic opens up possibilities for anyone who records audio—from Podcasters, journalists, students, and business people adding audio files to websites and multimedia presentations.

Feature List

• Large Diaphragm, 19mm, Studio Condenser with USB Digital Output.
• Compatible with any computer based Digital Audio Workstation.
• The extremely detailed sound reproduction makes it ideal for recording vocals, acoustic instruments and just about any other sound source.
• High Quality AD converter with 16 Bit, 48K sampling rate.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Nice low cost mic
It took just a little playing to get the mic placement figured out, but now it produces nice sounding audio. What works well for my screencasts is to set it on the table right in front of me at about a 60 degree angle tilted away from me. So the green light on the front is pointed towards my mouth, but I talk over it. I look at the computer screen, so the main acoustic energy is flowing about 5 inches above the microphone rather than aimed straight at it. I also bought the windscreen for it to help smooth any acoustic bursts.

It works perfectly with Windows and Linux. Supposed to also work with Mac. For me, a big concern before buying a microphone was that it works with Linux. I didn’t have to do anything to get it to work with Linux. I just plugged it in and used the ALSA mixer to turn it on and used it with Audacity and RecordMyDesktop.

5 Stars Great mic at a great price
I was looking for a good high-quality condensor microphone. This is it. USB connected for digital no-noise signal. Standard size fit my stand and vibration mount. The sound is clean and perfect for voice applications. Highly recommended!

5 Stars Received right away and works great!
This was sent out fast and we were very happy with the promptness and condition of the product.

Buy/More Info

The CAD U7 USB Tabletop Recording Microphone features an omnidirectional condenser element that is perfect for recording speech at home or in the office. With a frequency response tailored for speech and a low profile design that sits perfectly on a table, the CAD U7 works great for dictation or recording vocals from presentations. The plug and play U7 makes it easier than ever to start recording your meetings or speeches.

Buy/More Info

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).

Buy/More Info

The MXL 990/MXL 991 Recording Mic Package is a 2-microphone kit with the latest in MXL’s range of studio condenser microphones. The 990 has silky, sweet high end and a tight solid bass, perfect for recording vocals. The 991 is a superior instrument microphone designed for recording acoustic guitar and drum overheads. Both have gold-sputtered diaphragms (20mm) creating a professional sound perfectly suited for digital and analog recording. The MXL 990/MXL 991 Recording Mic Package includes a high-impact carrying case and mic stand adapters.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Aspiring Artist Seeks Mean Mic.
I bought this condenser mic. combo-set about two years ago. I had received an interface (fire-wire, from guitar/mic to computer)the previous Christmas and decided it was time for a serious equip upgrade. The problem? I was low on funds. However, per a serendipitous find at my local guitar boutique, I came across this Microphone set. The salesman had me questioning my buy by offering precautions against cheaply priced equip. (he worked on commission) but at the end of the day price won over quality and I sauntered back to my recording den with the MXL 991/990 (pair) in hand.

Aside from the jaunty carrying case and foam buffers, the set was straight forward: One Uni-directional Mic, One Choir Mic (cables sold separately). I opened, plugged(P48 req.), and tested. The microphones were great! The lows were fat and highs were crystal clear. The 990 is great for vocals and the 991 is great for instruments. I have no professional studio practice to speak of, but from my experience, both mics. have extremely dynamic properties and are great for either @home or in-studio recording. This set is great for the low budget aspiring artist, or money strapped pod-caster.

5 Stars finally technology i can afford
i have been into recording for about 20yrs now, and had never had a condensor mic, i must say, its a huge difference. even over a sm57 or 58. nice and clean sound. and as far as know most condensor mics do require phantom power, good news here though, you can find tube mic pre amps with phantom for a descent price, and it does improve the sound of the mic(even moreso than installed phantom on digital recorders) i recieved these mics, along w a set of fostex pm04monitors, w two stands, two xlrs, and a set of headphones for 212$ from musicians friend.

trickle down technology! please trickle down.

5 Stars Great mics, good price.
This is a great deal for those looking to record acoustic guitar and vocals. The vocals mic works great even without a pop filter. The instrument mic is small but records very well. They come in a nice and small case with two stand hook ups. The best part is that they are very cheap but still produce a good sounding recording.

4 Stars Fair for the price!
I’ve been working in radio broadcasting for about 6 years in my life..so when I’m telling you this is a decent deal, you should trust me.

Given the price, the sound of the MXL 990 and 991 is more than fair..is more than I expected.

With a bit of touch you can capture instruments and voice like a pro.I would say 90-95% ..you are there.

Since these mics require phantom power, be sure you have your mixer equipped with phantom power or buy a pre-amp that has one.Also you will probably need a tripod as well.Don’t be cheap on cables – bad ones can pickup ground noise or other noise..if possible use balanced connections between your mixer and your computer..(if that’s what you using for recording).Other than that..warm, round sound..you have to play with them until you get your perfect sound.I rarely give 5 star to a product, that’s the reason for 4 out of 5.

I’ve been using them to capture acoustic guitar and voice.

3 Stars OK, but you may outgrow them quickly
1st The bigger one has the same size capsule as the smaller one. It has a better bass response due to mounting. Neither of these is a Large Diaphram Condenser, but they can get you some higher frequency response in your recordings. The 990, with its larger frame lends itself to many mods and there are even a few companies that will get it sounding quite good compared to $800 SDCs. If you have a PC/or DigitalWorkstation set up this could get you started getting things recorded fairly quickly but in the long run you are better off with with an Audix i5 or Shure SM57 and then one of the LDC’s from AKG Perception , Oktava Mk219 or Mk319 or an inexpensive MXL, Marshal, or Rode. If you are looking for recording drums you might get usable results with these using the recorderman technique and a kick drum mic. They are usable but a LDC or even SM58 would be better on vocals. On acoustic instruments they might shine better than most < $100 dynamics. I picked them up when I needed OH's in a pinch last year. Take what I say as personal opinion. They may be great for you but they aren't the smoothest or the cleanest but they are better than nothing if that is the situation. Save and buy better if you can.

Buy/More Info

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.

The C03U works seamlessly on any computer running Mac OS X or Windows XP, and with most DAW software programs without having to install any extra software or drivers.

Plugs in directly to any computer with a USB interface
Switchable Cardioid, Omni, and Figure-8 Pickup Patterns
High Quality A/D Converter with 16-Bit, 48kHz Sampling Rate
Dual Large 19mm Diaphragm Elements
Switchable High-Pass Filter and 10 dB Pad
Smooth, Flat Frequency Response
USB cable and carry pouch included

Be sure to check the FAQs for the latest info on how to integrate the C03U with your recording software.

Buy/More Info

The MXL DRK Desktop Condenser Microphone Kit is a fully self contained, universal tool kit providing music recording capabilities for all home and studio audio recording formats.The DRK is perfect for recording vocals, instruments and for voice-over speech to liven home CD and DVD video recordings, location sound effects and field audio recordings. Monitor and keyboard not included.DRK Desktop Recording Package ContentsMXL Self-Powered MicrophoneDesktop StandMicrophone ClipXLR microphone cableXLR to Mini-Plug Adapter Cable3.5mm Mini-Plug to 1/4-inch adapter9-Volt batteryRecording Primer

Buy/More Info

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, supercardioid, and figure-8 pickup 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

5 Stars Podcasting Mic Mounted to Desk with Gooseneck
This mic is phenomenal. I struggled for weeks deciding whether to go cheap, or invest in quality, and I couldn’t have been happier with my decision to go ahead an invest. I record screencasts and podcasts as training and resources for my line of work, Web design and development.

I live by a busy highway, and the Super Cardiod pattern seems best at handling just me and not the background noise. However, the Omni pattern picks up EVERYTHING… which can certainly be great in many cases. There’s also the Figure 8 pattern which is also useful at times for picking up sound directly in front or back of the mic, but not from the sides.

I grabbed a gooseneck and shock-resistant flange mount and as far as vibration reduction (which we get a lot of vibration being so close to the highway) the results are great. No need for an expensive shock mount.

I attached the flange mount right to the side of my desk. Together, everything works perfectly. I couldn’t be more pleased with my setup.

The gooseneck I use is by Atlas Sound:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002LHSFC?ie=UTF8&tag=a354-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B0002LHSFC

Flange mount with rubber shock pad is what mounts the gooseneck to the desk:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001OJ03BW?ie=UTF8&tag=a354-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001OJ03BW

5 Stars awsome mic.
This microphone has excelent sound quality. I got it for my friend who is into music and it is amazing. Great pickup from all around.

4 Stars Great microphone, but confused messages on shipping time
This microphone is a great improvement over my analog headset mike for instructional narration and voice-acting. Its control software does not work on Vista, but its hardware switchable options were adequate to easily find a setup that sounds great, and saves me hours of post-recording editing. However, the shipping time was confusing. Amazon told me during the ordering process that standard shipping would take 7-10 days. But, after ordering I got a message that said, “You have chosen to ship your order via Standard shipping. The delivery estimate for this method to your address is 18 to 33 business days after shipping. The actual delivery time for the item(s) in your order will depend on the shipping policies of Ace Photo Digital and when the item(s) are available to ship.” I got the product in 10 days, so I remain puzzled about the mixed signals on shipping time.

5 Stars GREAT MIC
I was looking for a microphone that i could record songs with and this is just for me. It has a reasonable price with great quality. I would definitely recommend this!

2 Stars works great … when it works
i own 2 of these mics, and have had great luck recording various forms of hand percussion and drum set with them. The first one lasted about a year but was replaced relatively hassle-free by the company, and the second one is still going strong. My only advice is that if you do buy it, walk or drive carefully with it, as it is a delicate condenser mic. I clicked 2 stars but i could easily stretch it up to 3 or 4 – i’d say its a worthy investment. Maybe go with the recording/podcasting pack version of this mic, since a hard case is included. the CO3U has great sound quality, something i’d expect from a much more expensive mic.

Buy/More Info

The Shure SM86 is a unidirectional (cardioid) condenser vocal microphone for professional use in live performance. An extremely rugged microphone, the SM86 withstands the rigors of touring while delivering studio-quality sound. The tailored frequency response of the SM86 reproduces vocals with clarity. A cardioid pickup pattern isolates the main sound source while minimizing unwanted background noise. The built-in three-point shock mount minimizes handling noise, and a two-stage pop filter reduces wind and breath “pop” noise. The SM86 is an excellent selection for use with both stage monitors and personal in-ear monitors.

User Ratings and Reviews

4 Stars Shure SM86
My son loved this microphone and we received it after order in a timely manner.

4 Stars Recommended
I have a pair of these that I use for recording vocals on live bands (churches and small bars). I’ll swap them out with the house mics (typically an SM-58 or equivalent dynamic). In several cases this was the first condenser an artist had used, and they’ve always liked the obvious ‘new’ sound. The fidelity is a significant upgrade, but there’s always the limiting factor of the $10 mic pre built in to the house mixer board. Used with a good outboard pre, it is a very strong mic for the money. Yes there are better mics but this puts me reasonably at the point of diminishing returns. Although cardioid, it is VERY sensitive to the angle at which it is held-make sure it is parallel with the mouth, or you lose much of the sibilance. Quality is typical Shure professional grade, no issues with these after several years.

Buy/More Info

The Samson C01 has all the performance features that you demand from a large diaphragm studio condenser mic – and a knockout price! The Samson C01 is great for recording vocals, acoustic instruments and for use as overhead drum mics. The C01 large diaphragm condenser microphone is accurate, detailed, smooth with warm bass and extended top end. This sturdy microphone has a large 19mm diaphragm that produces a smooth flat frequency response. It features a heavy gauge mesh grill screen, a gold plated XLR connecter and an LED indicating 48V phantom power. The unit includes a swivel stand mount. Samson C01 Features Cardioid Pickup Pattern Large 19mm Diaphragm Heavy Gauge Mesh Grill Gold Plated XLR Connector LED Indicates 48V Phantom Power Smooth, Flat Frequency Response Swivel Stand Mount

Buy/More Info

The Samson C03U is a multi-pattern studio condenser microphone that records pristine audio and has enhanced capabilities along with a high quality A/D converter and USB output. Featuring dual 19mm internal shock mounted diaphragms with switchable omni, cardioid, and figure-8 pick-up patterns, it is 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. The C03U works seamlessly on any computer running Mac OS X or Windows XP, and with most DAW software programs without having to install any extra software or drivers. Samson C03U USB Microphone Features Plugs in directly to any computer with a USB interface Bundled with Cakewalk’s Sonar LE software Switchable Cardioid, Omni, and Figure-8 Pickup Patterns High Quality A/D Converter with 16-Bit, 48kHz Sampling Rate Dual Large 19mm Diaphragm Elements Switchable High-Pass Filter and 10 dB Pad Smooth, Flat Frequency Response USB cable and carry pouch included Also avaible in a package which includes a desktop mic stand, mic clip, shockmount and USB cable in a durable, lightweight aluminum case.

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Just what the doctor ordered
I needed a USB microphone for use with my speech recognition software (Dragon Naturally Speaking), when I got my new PC the sound card was incompatible with Dragon, and their tech support told me to either get a new sound card, or use a USB microphone. I tried an inexpensive USB microphone from Logitech, but it resulted in many more errors that I had to go back and correct. Most annoyingly, when I switched the microphone on and off, apparently there was a surge or something that the software would interpret as a word. So, many of my sentences started or ended with an extraneous “and” or “the” or “that,” all of which I had to go back and correct. I decided to upgrade the microphone rather than go the new sound card route, and ordered the Samson.

The Samson microphone has been great. Far fewer errors, works better than I hoped. The one thing I miss is that it has no on/off switch (couldn’t determine that from the available information), so I have to switch it on and off with the Dragon software, so I don’t get one of the main benefits I hoped for, but it works so well otherwise, I’m still happy.

Perhaps this seems like overkill for dictation software, but if you depend on that kind of software professionally, I think it’s well worth it.

3 Stars The wrong microphone was sent
I ordered two of the C03UCW microphones and I was sent two of the C01U’s – it is a different microphone. I wanted the one shown here.

The vendor offered to refund my money and said that it was a mistake made by Amazon. I needed the microphones for a project and did not have time to return them. They worked fine – but they were not the ones I ordered. I still want the other microphones.

Amazon – how can you make this one right?

5 Stars Podcasting Mic Mounted to Desk with Gooseneck
I primarily use this mic for podcasts and training screencasts for clients and colleagues in the Web design/development line of work. I’ve mounted it with a gooseneck and flange mount with shock absorbing pad which easily takes place of more expensive shockmounts available for this mic.

My main review for this mic is located on the other Samson C03U Microphone product page (see link below), but I want to add here that this seller had listings on the other product page, which is the item without the CakeWalk Sonar software.

However, buying the version without the software, from Ace Photo Digital… they threw in the software anyway!

It’s a superior product at an incredible value. It’s well worth the investment. See my full review here:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000EZKZMY?ie=UTF8&tag=a354-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B000EZKZMY

5 Stars Looks, sounds, feels good!
I don’t have too much experience on this type of microphone to make extensive/professional review. I just started playing with Garageband/pod cast and use Skype and wanted to improve the sound input.

Compare to the other mini microphones I’ve used, this is HUGE and heavy, solidly built. Connection is easy, just plug in the USB and the Mac recognizes it. To my not so experienced ears, it sounds better than iSight, built-in mics, and the Sony mic that requires an AA battery and a pre-amp.

Well-made, good sound, easy to use. 5-star for the prize/package/performance.

Buy/More Info