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Samson C01U USB Microphone, Condenser

The Samson C01U USB microphone is perfect for digital studio artists and podcasting. An affordable condenser mic, the Samson C01U features direct USB output. 212 People rated this product: Rate and Review This Product
Ships to: Can ship to United States Can ship to Puerto Rico
Can ship to APO/FPO
Roll Over to Enlarge With SONAR LE
As big-budget recording studios go the way of the dinosaur, computer-based project studios are flourishing. With the latest digital technology, even small laptop recording rigs can produce professional-quality results. These mobile systems let you record anywhere, regardless of space limitations. Samson is at the forefront of the digital audio revolution with their C01U USB microphone (condenser). Its pristine performance and direct-to-computer interface make it perfect for audio on-the-go.

Direct USB Output

The Samson C01U USB microphone is the first affordable studio-quality condenser mic with a direct USB output. In the past, studios had racks upon racks of microphone preamps, effects processors, and miles of cabling to get the signal down on tape. In today's digital world, however, streamlined portability is the key. This large-diaphragm condenser mic plugs straight into any Mac or Windows computer, faithfully capturing your audio source without all the excess baggage. There are no drivers to install and no special software required for operation, so you'll be up and running in minutes. Use the Samon C01U USB microphone with your favorite recording software to lay down vocal tracks or instrumentals, right out of the box. If you don't have a favorite recording application, give SONAR LE a try. It's included with the microphone.

Full-Range Audio Reproduction

Though specifically designed for computer recording, the Samson C01U USB microphones offer the same full-range warmth and clarity as their XLR counterparts. The large, 19mm diaphragm is strong enough to handle Sound Pressure Levels (SPL) up to 136dB, yet sensitive enough to reproduce both low- and high-volume sounds with equal articulation. A wide, flat frequency response from 20Hz to 18kHz gives you the accuracy you need to be sure what you hear is what gets recorded.

Great for Podcasting

The Samson C01U's hypercardioid pickup pattern has a wider spread at the front of the mic capsule than a standard cardioid microphone, while still providing some directional aiming capabilities. During a podcast, for example, you can comfortably conduct an interview. Spread the host and the guests out in front of the Samson C01U's protective mesh grille, and every voice comes through clearly. Meanwhile, your sound engineer/cue-card holder stands to the rear of the mic, outside of the pickup pattern where he can perform his duties without ruining the take. With a laptop and a Samson C01U USB mic, you've got everything you need for on-location podcasts. It's just that simple.

Free Software Download

For added functionality, Samson C01U owners can visit Samson's website and download the SoftPre applet. Running between the USB port and your audio software, it adds an independent level meter, volume control, high-pass filter, and phase switch. This way, you can be sure the highest-quality signal is sent to your recording application. No need to boost the gain or roll-off the lows after the fact; the incoming signal is as clean as it can be. Your recording projects will go smoother and sound better than ever before.

Available Packages

Choose a bundle that best suits your needs. The standard package includes a Samson C01U USB microphone, SONAR LE recording software, and a USB cable. The podcast package adds a shock mount, mic stand, and hard case with form-fitted interior. zZounds is an authorized dealer of Samson products.
The Samson C01U works without the SoftPre applet software using the standard drivers included in your computer's operating system.

If you would like the added functionality of the Samson SoftPre you can download the application from the Samson website.

Samson SoftPre applet adds: Input Level Meter, Volume control, High-pass filter and Phase Switch
Dimensions and Weight in Packaging
with SONAR LE
Shipping Weight: 2 lbs
Shipping Dimensions: 8 x 6 x 4 in
with SONAR LE, and SP01 Shockmount
Shipping Weight: 3 lbs
with SONAR LE, and Tripod Boom Stand
Shipping Weight: 8 lbs
Podcasting Package, with SONAR LE, Shockmount, Desk Stand, and Case
Shipping Weight: 12 lbs
Shipping Dimensions: 16 x 13 x 6 in
Samson Warranty If you have additional warranty questions, please call the manufacturer at 631-784-2200

Product Description

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

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 Samson's wildly successful C01. It features a 19 mm internally shock-mounted diaphragm with a cardioid pickup 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.

Features:

- Industry's first affordable USB studio condenser mic
- Plugs in directly to any computer with a USB input
- Cardioid pickup pattern
- Large 19mm diaphragm
- Heavy gauge mesh grill
- Smooth, flat frequency response
- USB connection cable included (10 Foot)
Our extended 30-Day 100% Satisfaction Guarantee applies on this product. Buy it, and if it isn't just right for you, return it!
What Our Customers Are Saying About zZounds "I've always had good service and great results from zZounds. Customer service is key to their success, and I like that you can choose to make 4 payments on items over $249." - customer on April 25th, 2012
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$79.00
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Customer Reviews
4 out of 5 (212 ratings) Rate and Review This Product
zZounds has verified that this customer bought this product from us. "Three Thumbs Up!"
Sound: This product produces great sound at an incredibly low price. This mic produces sound that compares well with others costing hundreds more, and I'm quite fond of it. Feature: It's a microphone. Make sure, if you don't own one already, that you purchase a stand to go with it, any standard stand will do. (Comes with Euro adapter.) Because of not needing phantom power or a mixer, it's great for a portable setup. Ease of Use: The software could be better, and because of no live playback, you have to watch your levels instead of listening for them. (You can use a software playback, but because of the disconcerting delay that it causes, I find it easier to watch.) Quality: Cosmetically, it was perfect, no blemishes, dents or missing finish. Everything appeared aligned perfectly. It seems quite rugged and is heavy. I've had the product for about 90 days now and have had no problems, I use it nearly everyday. Value: This mic is VERY well worth the money I spent on it. Manufacturer Support: Samson responded quickly to an inquiry about the live playback, and they have an excellent amount of information on their website about this mic. The Wow Factor: Overall this is a great mic. Overall: I expect I'll always have a use for this mic. It's a great sound at a low price.
Style of Music: n/a
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"Great entry level microphone"
Sound: When I first got this item, I was so excited. Being an amature recording artist, all I knew was that this mic was a huge step up from the headset microphone that I had used to use. I learned later on, however, that USB mics differ in quality from their pre-amped counterparts in several ways. Fortunately, if you are willing to spend the time, and have a good software program to record with, you can get a way with the vast diffrence in quality if you can edit the sound well and get a good physical recording. For the money, I would say that you get what you pay for, and thats not entirely a bad thing. Feature: I liked this product, surprizingly, for its simplicity. On a mic, you dont really want a bunch of features, however, you want to be able to tweak it to your desire. I gave this an 8 because it comes with a free downloadable applet that is essential in audio editing for this mic. Ease of Use: I'd prolly give it a 8.5. Its recognizable by severaly audio software programs when plugged in, which is great. However, i can recall more than once when I had to rerecord because the levels were too high when I thought they were set correctly. Quality: Its been dropped a few times (on carpet) and I cant notice. Value: For the price, its worth it. Also, now that they are selling these with Sonar, its definately worth the price. The Wow Factor: It looks professional. Nowadays, thats a big part of the music industry. Overall: I say an 8 because even though its true meaning for it is Podcasting, I have recorded over 3 albums and gotten several gigs because of it. If you are a beginner or loooking for an affordable microphone, you wont go wrong getting this. Theres no hidden secrets behind it...it does just what it says it does.
Style of Music: Alternative, Hip Hop, Experimental
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