Samson CO1U USB Condenser Microphone

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

2 Stars Does Not work with Vista
“Samson C01U USB mic records low volume on Vista.

This is a known behavior with the Samson Mic and the Vista operating system and is not specific with Camtasia Studio. Be sure to turn your recording volume up and speak directly into the microphone to obtain a good recording level. ”

The above is copied from the Camtasia Web site. This is apparently a well known problem with Vista. I’m encountering it too.

5 Stars Gain problem on Mac solved
On my Mac iBook G4 running 10.5.8 there had been a problem with these Samson USB CO1U mics that first came up when I switched them between laptops. The problem was there with Audacity and SoundStudio and it may be the same issue with other apps. I am using two of these mics for stereo recording, but the fix is the same for a single mic. The source of this problem is the fact that even though these are mono mics they have two output channels, and both channels must have their gain all the way up in order to have full gain from the mic. Setting gain in the system sound preference does not seem to accomplish this.

Go to the AudioMIDI Setup Utility in the utilities folder, select the Samson mic in the “Properties For” dropdown. Under “Audio Input” you will then see the option of 1 or 2 channels. Select 2-ch, then below to the left the L & R volume sliders for both channels should be all the way to the right. You can now put the mic setting back to 1-channel without affecting overall gain.

If you use two mics for stereo recording just set each mic like this individually, go to the Aggregate Device Editor under “Audio” on the menu bar, aggregate the two mics, and you’re done. If you need to balance the gain on them afterward you can do so by selecting them individually to make any changes. Make sure “Default Input” remains “Aggregate Device” (which BTW you can rename by going back to the “Aggregate Device Editor” and double clicking.) Unfortunately, on some Macs this resetting of mic gain has to be redone every time they are unplugged and plugged back in, but it’s quick and easy once you’ve done it. Hope this helps!

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.

The graphical mixer tools work well to turn it on or off, but to make sure I get the same a good volume setting each time, I made a couple simple shell scripts after experimenting with the right volume setting.

$ cat micon

amixer -c 1 set ‘Mic’ 48 unmute cap on

$ cat micoff

amixer -c 1 set ‘Mic’ nocap mute

Then in recordMyDesktop, either specify hw:1,0 in the device box (graphical version) or from the command line, use -device hw:1,0.

Here is a sample of one of my screencasts with this mic using recordMyDeskTop in Linux. My voice is pretty deep, so that’s just me, not the mic.

[...]

Here is one where I compare it to two other mics. I did this one right after I got it, and hadn’t figured out the mic placement yet. I did this one in Windows. You can also find this recording on YouTube.

[...]

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.

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CAD U37 USB Studio Condenser Recording Microphone

CAD U37 USB Studio Condenser Recording Microphone

The CAD U37 USB Condenser Microphone combines a high-quality large diaphragm condenser with USB connectivity. The U37 USB provides a smooth, extended frequency response that is excellent for singing, speech and instruments. A bass roll off switch and a 10 dB pad make this one of the most versatile USB microphones we carry. The U37 also features a cardioid pick-up pattern that helps to minimize background noise and isolate the main sound source. Includes a desktop microphone stand for easy placement.

User Ratings and Reviews

4 Stars Great mic, but picks up environmental noise
The CAD U37 is a great mic for the money, but you have to be willing to tolerate its desire to capture ambient noise. If you’re around a noisy computer, for example, it will capture that sound. If you are in an echo-prone room, it will pick up any echos. You might like this for multiple people to be gathered around a single mic and speak or play an acoustic number, but if you want something akin to an isolated sound where your voice and only your voice is registered amid a din of activity, you’ll be disappointed.

I have not fiddled very much with the two settings on the microphone. I have kept the buttons facing to the left (if you are looking at the CAD logo (facing up) on the microphone).

5 Stars Best value for money USB Microphone for Computer
I had been researching USB Microphones for a long time and was nervous to make a selection, incase I ended up with a lemon. Well I just heard about this microphone a couple of weeks ago and read up on CAD Microphones. I took the plunge and bought this little beauty. It is made of a plastic casing, but don’t let that put you off – this is obviously the trade off in getting a good quality USB for under $100. It’s the inside heart of the microphone which makes it a great mic. Yes it is sensitive in picking up background noise, but I don’t mind. I love that this mic has the ability to pick up a full texture of sound in the room. I also like that it records with very low background hiss, which is a big problem with integrated mics in laptops.

One important thing to remember with any USB mic is to know how to open up it’s settings on your computer. When I first connected the U37 to my computer, it defaulted its input sound level to practically zero. It is in this setting that I have learnt to control the sensitivity of the microphone.

9/10 for this microphone. You won’t be disappointed. Peace Out

2 Stars works okay, but not the best solution
The CAD u37 isn’t as great as I thought it would be. The mic is very noisy and picks up way to much ambient noise. The other problem is with Logic Pro 9, it had way too much latency to be useful. I actually had to activate low latency mode and set my buffer size much lower than with any other usb audio device I’ve used, and sometimes it would still have latency. I am fairly disappointed as I had hoped it would be plug and play. I did like the quality of the microphone, maybe not the warmest microphone but has a lot of clarity to it which is nice. I would recommend this for podcasts or something where the timing of the recording is not critical. Another problem with USB mics is that they cannot be upgraded. If you are serious about getting nice semi-professional quality from microphones, I would suggest getting an actual xlr condenser with an audio input device with a phantom power supply like the line 6 ux2. Would probably be a better investment for you seeing as all you would have to do to upgrade is just purchase a better condenser. Will be returning this product.

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Behringer C 4 Single Diaphragm Condenser Microphones 2 Matched Single Diaphragm Condenser Microphones Price Per Pair Only Sold In Pairs

Behringer C 4 Single Diaphragm Condenser Microphones 2 Matched Single Diaphragm Condenser Microphones Price Per Pair Only Sold In Pairs

C-4 microphones are built to capture the performance of a choir, piano or any other vocal or acoustic sound source to provide a beautiful true-to-life sound. Sold in perfectly matched pairs, these outstanding condenser mics are especially great for live applications because their non-reflective finish eliminates unwanted glare caused by stage lighting. Condenser mics are the ideal choice for capturing vocals or acoustic instruments, either in live or recording settings. By their very nature, condenser microphones are much more sensitive than dynamic microphones, enabling them to pick-up even the subtlest of signals. Thanks to their cardioid (heart-shaped) pattern, C-4 microphones pickup your source signal while rejecting off-axis sounds that can ruin an otherwise perfect recording. Another difference between condenser and dynamic mics is they contain active circuitry that requires phantom power (+48 V DC) for operation. You can power them from any phantom power equipped BEHRINGER XENYX mixer, plus enjoy the benefits of our state-of-the-art XENYX mic preamps.

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Audio Technica AT2020 Side Address Cardiod Condensor Studio Mic

Audio Technica AT2020 Side Address Cardiod Condensor Studio Mic

The Audio Technica AT2020 Cardioid Condenser Microphone features an all-new proprietary design, with the proven reliability of Audio-Technicas modern engineering and manufacturing expertise.Ideal for project/home studio applications, the AT2020 features a custom-engineered low-mass diaphragm, providing extended frequency response plus the ability to handle extremely high SPLs. The AT2020 has a fixed cardioid polar pattern to allow isolation of the desired sound source. The mic features excellent performance specifications, including a flat, extended frequency response (20 20,000 Hz), high SPL handling capability (144 dB), and a wide dynamic range (124 dB). Every aspect of the AT2020 has been tailored for a very smooth, natural sound while ensuring maximum accuracy, making it a perfect complement for todays digital recording equipment. The AT2020 comes standard with a pivoting, threaded stand mount, which attaches securely for easy and precise placement. The microphone requires 48V phantom power that may be provided by a mixer/console. In addition, the AT2020 measures 6.38 inches long, has a maximum body diameter of 2.05 inches, weighs 12.1 oz., and comes with a soft protective carrying pouch.Audio Technica AT2020 FeaturesThe price/performance standard in side-address studio condenser microphone technologyIdeal for project/home-studio applicationsHigh SPL handling and wide dynamic range provide unmatched versatilityCustom-engineered low-mass diaphragm provides extended frequency response and superior transient responseCardioid polar pattern reduces pickup of sounds from the sides and rear, improving isolation of desired sound sourcePivoting, threaded stand mount attaches securely for easy and precise placement of the microphone

User Ratings and Reviews

5 Stars Astonishing sound and value for well under 100 bucks!
I was especially fortunate and got a new one for around [...]

making this beautiful-sounding vocal mic

a spectacular bargain for the home-recording musician or audio-blogger.

I don’t know of any truly-decent large-diaphragm condensers with

the full 1″ diaphragm size for under [...] (don’t be a sucker for the

super-cheapies that look so big & cool). The AT2020 has a 2/3-inch diaphragm size, but

sounds better & bigger than anything else I have ever heard in the price range.

If you can spend [...]on a wonderful AT2035 or maybe a Studio Projects mic,

then by-all means, do it.

But the AT2020 [...]on all competition under [...], IMO.

I use it with the Studio Projects VTB1 Mic Preamp and the sound is B-I-G.

The AT2020 and the VTB1 are definitely a sweet pair together.

Although, I suspect any decent preamp used properly with the AT2020

would sound pretty darn good.

And DO use a preamp, even if only a $30 Art Tube MP.

Count on buying the 2 items together.

The pre will “send your AT2020 to the gym”, by giving it

a thicker, fuller, BETTER sound.

The thing to remember with preamps is to

try to get close to the *loudest possible clean sound*

coming out of the preamp and generate

a BIG signal going IN to the recording device, which should

have its input gain quite LOW (maybe like “2″ or even “1″).

Watch your clipping/overload levels,

listen for any audible noise or distortion in the recording,

and make adjustments to cut those sound flaws, if they are present.

For vocals,

Experiment with going as loud as you can from the preamp while still sounding CLEAN,

until you find you particular setup’s “sweet spot”.

“Straight-up” dial-settings is often around where you end up.

The AT2020, used with a decent pre like the one I have (there are many others),

should get you a serious studio vocal sound

with pro-quality clarity and little coloration.

IMO, it’s got to be the world champ of under-[...]studio Condenser Mics,

at least right now (in 2009),

until something more miraculous comes along.

And if you are presently recording vocals with

something like an SM58, moving up to the AT2020

with a modest preamp will absolutely blow your mind–Much “bigger” sounding,

with much finer detail, presence and clarity.

I hear this mic is good for miking electric guitar cabs

and various percussion too.

But voice is its forte, I believe.

It’s a gem.

5 Stars For the price this is it!
I have a couple other condensor mikes with shock mounts in the same price range, but this one is the best. Not sure you can do much better for anywhere near the price. I loaned one to a friend and he immediately returned his mike to the shop for one of these. Nice neutral sound, solid construction, I use it with a tube amp to get some non-linear compression for voice.

5 Stars Great Value
Let’s face it…I’m just a hobby musician. A guy in his mid-30’s who has tinkered with music most of his adult life. I’ve played both as a solo artist and with bands. I’ve also been fortunate enough to spend time in actual recording studios with true professionals. None of this qualifies me as an expert…but I do have a certain level of familiarity on the subject.

I purchased this mic to supplement my home studio. I was hoping to get a little better sound than my usual stable of dynamic mics provide. I think I got pretty lucky with this purchase – it’s my understanding that in this particular price range, you shouldn’t expect a whole lot. I mean, it’s just a microphone, right?

What I will say is that I was certainly satisfied with my purchase. I’ve used this microphone in conjunction with a tube preamp on a handful of recordings with great success. I bought this with the intention of using it for vocals, but I’ve found that I actually prefer it to record my acoustic guitar – this microphone picks up all the sound that I’m looking for from my acoustic – it’s the nice, mellow, and full bodied sound that I hear when I’m playing, but that I was never able to capture before. In terms of its originally intended use, I felt is was only a slight improvement over the SM58 that I typically used for vocals – however, I wouldn’t put too much stock into my assessment, as vocals are not one of my strengths when it comes to music (let’s face it, autotune was created for a reason, right?)

Granted – everyone is going to have different opinions of this product, and I happen to think it works great for those of us on a budget. In terms of value – it is a great product for a fantastic price. I liked this microphone so much, I plan on buying at least one more.

4 Stars Great Mic! My 1st Studio mic!
So happy to get my new mic it sound great but i have not rec with it so i give 4 star for the design, the sound, the price etc… so if u are look for a Studio mic that are around $80 THIS IS THE ONE!

4 Stars AT2020
This is a wonderful microphone. I use it to record interviews in the field instead of a shotgun set up. It is more hassle to use because it requires phantom power. But it provides a clean, clear, warm voice print.

I also plan to use it to record my children’s musical performances here at home. So for home concerts and for my field work, this mic works for me.

DD

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Sony ECM F8 Electret Condenser Microphone with Flat Boundary Effect Design

Sony ECM F8 Electret Condenser Microphone with Flat Boundary Effect Design

Designed specifically for recording meetings, the ECMF8 from Sony is an inexpensive electret condenser microphone with a high-quality output and a small, inconspicuous design.

As a tabletop omni-directional microphone, the ECMF8 picks up sound from all directions, ensuring that speech is easily discernable, even in multiple sound source environments. As a boundary microphone, the ECMF8 is able to offer a flatter frequency response than many other microphones by reducing frequency distorting reflections, providing a low-noise signal even when the microphone is at a distance from the sound source. A frequency response of 50 to 12,000 Hz captures the most important speech frequencies, while a -51 (+/-4 dBm) effective output level delivers a strong signal to the recording device. Output impedence is 1.6 kohms (+/- 30%, unbalanced).

The ECMF8 operates on Sony’s CR2025 lithium battery, which has a life of approximately 100 hours. The mini plug connects directly to most portable recorders, while its L-shape helps ensure that it doesn’t come disconnected during use. Small and unobtrusive, the ECMF8 weighs just 0.88 ounces (including battery and cord) while its 3.3 foot long cord lets you position the mic a reasonable distance from your recording device. The ECMF8 also comes backed with a 90 day limited warranty on parts and labor.

User Ratings and Reviews

1 Star BAD QUALITY
I am a musician, I bought one, it is so bad , the sound is so small, it is not sensitive, I cannot use it. just throw away. Do not waste your money even it is 1 dollar.

Luke Thanh Hoang

1 Star Cheap construction
This product was not what I expected it to be. It was so light weight, it never would have stayed in one spot for very long. I threw it in the garbage.

5 Stars Great Little Microphone
I purchased this to use with my Sony Cassette Recorder. It greatly enhanced the recording. You do need to purchase the battery separately.

1 Star DO NOT WASTE YOUR MONEY ON THIS MICROPHONE
DO NOT BUY THIS MICROPHONE IF YOU CARE ABOUT WHETHER OR NOT YOU ARE ACTUALLY RECORDING A SESSION OR NOT. Steer clear!!! These mikes might look great, but of what use are they when they need a battery and there is no low battery indicator? There is absolutely no way to know that you’re not getting a recording until you try to play something back and there’s nothing there or it’s faint sounding. What a useless microphone!! You also have to turn the microphone on and off on the bottom which is difficult to do because of the switch design and if you forget to turn it off, you’ll run your battery down. Arrh!! This is the worst waste of money of my whole life… Thankfully, I only bought two, and they are not terribly expensive.

As a court repoorter, I’m always looking for new equipment and thought I would try these mikes for court as they looked low key and would be a nice addition to my microphone stable. I didn’t see in the specs that they also require batteries (which by the way, don’t come with the microphones) and I bought them only to find they would be of no use to me in my work as I can’t run the risk of not getting a perfect recording each time.

Do not buy these microphones — any microphone that needs independent batteries and doesn’t have a low battery indicator is worthless. I highly recommend the Labtec VERSE 333 MON MOUNT MIC ( 980184-0403 ) which are available on Amazon and are cheaper than the Sony. They have identical plugs and are about the same size. I have three of them and they work great. I have never had a problem. I take down courtrooms, public meetings in large rooms, depositions — and I get everything clearly enough to be able to provide a perfect transcript to my clients.

1 Star Don’t Buy!!
I picked this small mic to use with collaboration tools at my desk…and since it was Sony figured it would be a great product. WRONG!! Unless you hold the mic almost against your mouth, it won’t pick up your audio. I tried adjusting my mic levels and nothing seemed to work. I ended up at Radio Shack to buy a lapel mic that actually works!! This is buy far the WORST Sony product I have ever used.

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