Samson C01 Large-Diaphragm Studio Condenser Microphone

For the price, you can't beat the clean, accurate sound of this large-diaphragm condenser. It's great for recording vocals at home. Just add phantom power!

It's well-known that Samson offers an impressive bang for the recording enthusiast's buck. The Samson C01 is no different. Well under the price of most dynamic microphones, the C01's large-diaphragm condenser capsule is capable of producing detailed, clear recordings of sensitive acoustic instruments like guitar and piano, as well as tracking impressive spoken and sung vocals. In short, if you've already got a dynamic mic like the SM58, your next purchase needs to be a large-diaphragm condenser, and you can hardly go wrong with the Samson C01.

Large-Diaphragm Condenser

While dynamic mics may be great for live vocals where feedback is an issue, or for tracking super-loud instruments like guitar amps and snare drums, its role in the studio is limited. The passive dynamic voice coil just doesn't have the sensitivity required for quality recordings of acoustic instruments and studio vocals. That's why anyone making audio recordings of any kind simply needs a large-diaphragm condenser, and the Samson C01 is an amazing value. The C01's recording element is an electrically activated, dual-layer diaphragm measuring 19 mm wide. The two ultra-thin sensor membranes pick up far more detailed sounds than any dynamic coil, so you'll suddenly be able to hear the strings and wood of your guitar, the breath and resonance of a singer, or the brassy shimmer of a ride cymbal.

A True Multi-Purpose Microphone

In addition to the applications listed above, the Samson C01 also excels at read more spoken word, ambient recording, and sound effects production. The C01 features a cardioid pickup pattern that is highly directional, meaning it records what you point it at while rejecting off-axis noise. The cardioid pattern also lends the mic a very useable proximity effect, meaning the closer the mic is to a sound source, the more pronounced the bass frequencies. This is great for getting a lot of depth out of a close-up spoken vocal, but it means the mic can still pick up the subtleties of room acoustics without getting muddy. A gentle low-frequency roll-off and smooth high-end response add to the overall pleasing sound of the Samson C01.

Built Heavy-Duty To Last

Condenser mics are more sensitive instruments than dynamic mics, and so can't withstand the same abuses. Still, the Samson C01 is no fading violet; a heavy gauge mesh grill protects the sensitive condenser diaphragm, and a robust metal chassis will fend off the odd bump, drop, or jostle. Like any condenser microphone, the C01 requires 48 volts of phantom power for proper operation -- power provided by most mixing boards and USB or FireWire audio interfaces. A handy blue LED indicates whether phantom power is running.
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Dimensions and Weight in Packaging
Pair
Shipping Weight: 5 lbs
Base Item
Shipping Weight: 2.5 lbs
Shipping Dimensions: 12 x 9 x 3 in
Manufacturer Part Number (MPN): SAC01

For support or warranty questions, please contact the manufacturer:
Phone: 516-870-7200
Web: http://www.samsontech.com/contact/

Samson C01 Condenser Microphone

Great for recording vocals, acoustic instruments and for use as overhead drum mics, the Samson 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 and an optional SP01 shock mount is available.

Features:

- Hypercardioid Pickup Pattern
- Large 19mm Diaphragm
- Heavy Gauge Mesh Grill
- Gold Plated XLR Connector
- Swivel Stand Mount (Included)
- Optional SP01 Shock Mount (Sold Separately)
- LED Indicates 48V Phantom Power
- Smooth, Flat Frequency Response

Reviewers gave this product an overall rating of 4 out of 5 stars. (74 ratings)
Submitted February 23, 2014 by Ed Hutchinson in Plainfield, VT

"Samson CO1 nice cheap mic"

Overall: 4 out of 5 stars
(see rating details)
Verified Customer zZounds has verified that this reviewer made a purchase from us.
This mic seems to be a favorite of the quartets in our barbershop harmony chapter. A single mic gives a very nice balance for the lead and bass (the primary voices in the center) and the bari and tenor can back away if they need to. The mic does very well with male voice range giving a pleasing warm tone without losing clarity.

Musical Background:

I am primarily a singer and have been singing for more than half a century.

Musical Style:

Barbershop mostly
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  • For a limited time, buy a Samson C01 microphone at zZounds and get a second C01 free from Samson. Must select Pair option. Hurry -- ends April 30!