Samson C01

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 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.