Samson C01 Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphone

Product Information

If you want the simplest possible computer recording setup, it doesn't come much more straightforward than this: a mic that plugs straight into your Mac or PC's USB ports.

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Samson tell me they have succeeded in running multiple C01Us via a USB hub, which opens up some interesting possibilities for the future. The main limitation of most basic 'digital' microphones of this type is that the internal preamp has a fixed gain prior to the analogue-to-digital conversion stage, so you only get full resolution when the microphone is hearing the maximum signal level it can accept without clipping, but Samson have been quite clever in their design. It could certainly be used to record a very respectable vocal track, albeit without the transparency and shimmer of a top-class microphone. I found the top end to be extremely smooth, and there was no instances of unwanted sibilance or harshness of any kind.

Sensitivity is quoted at 33dB/Pa and, in practice, this was comparable with the other capacitor mics I tested it against and, indeed, a little higher than some. Once I'd installed the applet from the Samson web site and created an Aggregate audio driver, I put the applet control panel in the Dock so I could open it whenever necessary, although the mic was recognised by my system prior to the software installation.

Samson SP01 Shock Mount for C01, C01U, CL7 and C03 Samson SP01 Shock Mount for C01, C01U, CL7 and C03

It can be used with acoustic guitar, hip hop, vocal, and other orchestral stringed instruments because it is versatile. Some may predominantly rap in the lower registers, while others may prefer to rap at a higher pitch. I've had a few friends, who had only used established mics like the Rode NT1-A by that point, ask me what exactly did I change in my setup which improved the quality of recording that much. Having a fairly large diaphragm, it can comfortably handle loud vocal styles, and also can be used to record a range of instruments, although you're obviously not going to get the same results as using dedicated kick drum mics for recording your bass drum, for example. Up to +48dB of additional gain is available, and the applet also provides metering, variable-frequency low-cut filtering and a phase invert switch.Although the majority of microphones that are well suited to recording rapping are of the condenser variety, the SM7B is dynamic. But overall this condenser microphone sounds great and is an excellent option for those on a budget. The most important thing about this Samson C01 review is that it doesn’t exaggerate Samson C01’s capabilities.

Samson C01 vs. Behringer C1 - Home Studio Basics Samson C01 vs. Behringer C1 - Home Studio Basics

The downloadable Soft Pre applet allows software control over the C01U's gain cell and other attributes. The design follows that of a typical 'classic' side-entry vocal mic and the frequency response is quoted as being flat within 1dB over the audio range.The downside of this mic being super heavy and durable is that you will need a mic stand equally as beastly. Just as a side note: I didn’t set up any Acoustic Sound Treatment, so just be aware that you may hear a bit of background noise. The CO1U Pro even works with iPads and iPhones (4S and later) using Apple's Lightning USB Camera Adapter for those who want professional-quality sound on the go. Our team comprises of music enthusiasts across the globe with extensive teaching, studio and live playing experience. Stu is determined to help you make sound decisions, and strives to deliver the best and most in-depth content on the internet!