Samson Audio have been building a range of microphones for some time now, and the C03 is aimed squarely at the budget recording sector. Both models are true large diaphragm condensers with selectable polar patterns – cardioid, omni and figure of eight. Both microphones are of a similar design, with dual 19mm 3 micron capsules, 3-way switching of polar patterns, and a bass roll-off pad.
Samson C03 is connected via a standard XLR which supplies both audio signal and the ‘phantom power’ needed to run the capsules, whilst Samson C03U is simply connected by a standard USB cable which connects both audio and power to the capsules. In addition the USB version comes with ‘Sonar LE’ software.
The sturdy steel case is well finished in a slightly matt silver finish with the grille coloured a silky dark grey. All legends are in silver. Both microphones come with stand mounts plus a small desk stand, but for the purposes of this review I was supplied with a suspension mount as I wanted to audition the C03 in a studio situation.
In use, Samson C03 displayed the typical characteristics to be expected from a well designed large diaphragm capacitor. Warm bottom-end and sparkling highs when used to record both acoustic guitar and vocals with a cardioid pattern, and the nice addition of some room ambience when switched to figure of eight.
When used to record electric guitar played through an amplifier driven hard, the mic handled high SPLs well – a sure sign of a good all-rounder. I would like to try a pair of these as drum overheads as I feel sure they would perform well in this situation – perhaps more of this later when we look at microphones for drum kits. I conducted the listening tests with the standard C03, then compared the USB version.
There was no discernable difference between the two in normal use, but the C03 will probably find its home in the studio whilst the C03U comes into its own in the classroom/ MIDI suite where it’s all-in-one capabilities come in very handy. Samson C03U really is an all-in-one solution as it comes with Sonar LE, and simply plugs into an available USB port.
There are other microphones with a similar specification and price around, but few with switchable polar patterns, and even fewer with the USB option.
Both Samson Microphones are available in zZounds music store.
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Whу іѕ Shure SM58 vocal microphone ѕο рοрυlаr? Here іѕ аn аnѕwеr:
Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphones
Large diaphragm condenser microphones are used for recording vocals and “deep” sounding acoustic instruments (like acoustic guitar). These in general warm up the recorded sound. Additionally, you will need a pop screen if using a condenser microphone for recording vocals.
Samson C03
The Samson C03 is an affordable dual-diaphragm condenser mic with selectable polar patterns (omni, super cardioid, figure 8). Selectable polar patterns allow you to practice some different miking techniques. Additional this mic has switchable high-pass filter and -10dB pad switch. Shock mount, which can see on a picture, are available optionally.
Samson C03 condenser is suitable for recording vocals and acoustic instruments. Sound is a subjective thing, but in my opinion, it brings out bright tones for recording a guitar and sound warm by vocals.
I would positively suggest this good condenser microphone to everyone, who had just started with recording. Even many of the old doers used it.
Read more about this mic from Samson C03 Condenser Microphone test-review.
Samson C03 Multi-Pattern Studio Condenser Microphone can buy from zZounds
Audio Technica AT2050
The Audio Technica AT2050 is multi-pattern condenser microphone maintains precise polar pattern definition across the full frequency range of the microphone due to its dual-diaphragm capsule design. In addition, the diaphragms are gold-vaporized for optimum tonal character. Mic has three switchable polar patterns: omni, cardioid, figure-eight. Equipped with a switchable 80 Hz high-pass filter and 10 dB pad.
Intended for a wide variety of miking applications, including overheads, acoustic instruments and guitar cabinets, it features a large diaphragm for smooth, natural sound and low noise. The microphone is good for studio and live sound use on vocals, piano, strings, drum overheads, guitar amps, and more. It features a large diaphragm for smooth, natural sound and low noise. Microphone includes a shock mount.
The Audio Technica AT2050 is highly rated condenser microphone.
See more about Audio-Technica AT2050 Condenser Microphone
SE Electronics SE2200a
The SE Electronics SE2200a is a large diaphragm, cardioid, transformer-balanced condenser microphone. Be comprised of a low cut filter, 10dB pad and also comes complete with a rugged aluminium shock mount and flight case. Mic has a gold vacuum plated single-diaphragm, offering relatively low self generating noise and therefore, a better signal to noise ratio.
Manufactured by Chinese company, which offer excellent quality by mild price. The SE2200a is a versatile performer suitable for vocal and acoustic instrument recording. It has won many awards around the world.
The SE Electronics SE2200a is very good condenser, gives clear sound and this mic should be pretty sensitive.
SE Electronics SE2200A Condenser Microphone can find from zZounds shop.
Shure KSM27
The Shure KSM27 is a side-address, large-diaphragm condenser microphone with a fixed cardioid polar pattern. Its ultra thin one-inch-diameter Mylar diaphragm is sputtered with 24-karat gold and feeds a Class A, discrete, transformerless preamplifier. High-quality electronic components and gold connectors are used throughout. Durable Shure construction features three separate mesh layers that reduce wind and breath noise.
Two small switches on the rear of the KSM27 control a 15 dB pad and two high pass filters: a mild 6 dB-per-octave roll off at 115 Hz and a steeper 18 dB-per-octave cutoff at 80 Hz. This mic is very transparent on vocals and rather bright for acoustic instruments. The brand new model Shure SM27 has similar properties.
The relatively inexpensive KSM27 is a professional condenser mic and this is a great deal for the price.
Shure SM27 Multi-Purpose Condenser Microphone is available in zZounds music instruments store.
Compare Properties of Large Diaphragm Condenser Microphones
| Mic Model | Samson C03 | Audio Technica AT2050 | SE Electronics SE2200a | Shure KSM27 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| View | ||||
| Capsule | 19mm/0.75″ | 20.4mm/0.8″ | 25mm/1″ | |
| Polar Pattern | SuperCardioid/ Fig.8/Omni | Cardioid/ Fig.8/Omni | Cardioid | |
| Filters & Pads | low cut/-10dB pad | low cut/-15dB pad | ||
| Frequency Response Hz | 40-18000 | 20-20000 | ||
| Rated Impedance Ohm | 350 | 120 | 200 | 150 |
| Equivalent Noise level dB | 23 | 17 | 17 | 14 |
| Dynamic Range dB | 119 | 132 | 130 | 124 |
| Weight g/oz | 460/16 | 412/14.5 | n/a | 642/22.5 |
| Shock Mount | optional ~40$ | included | included | optional ~70$ |
| Power Supply | Phantom Power 48V | |||
| Price ~$ | 119 | 229 | 299 | 299 |
Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphones
Small diaphragm condenser microphones are used for recording most acoustic instruments and for recording a live drum set. These have the best transient response, it gives ability to reproduce fast sounds. These sometimes are available paired with, for finer stereo miking.
Samson C02
The Samson C02 is a pencil style small diaphragm condenser microphone that excels in both live performance and recording applications. Accoutered with a linear frequency response for superior reproduction. Microphone is greatly sensitive, it employs a tight cardioid pattern to reduce feedback. A special shock-mounted mic holder is included to minimize noise and provide additional protection. Applications include drums, guitar, piano, strings or even vocals.
Those sold as a pair and this deal includes a carry case & shock-mounted clips. As well a Samson C03 pair is ideal for stereo recordings.
For incredible price this mic pair is extremely suitable for home studio recordings.
The pair of Samson C02 Microphones are available in zZounds store.
SE Electronics SE1A
The SE Electronics SE1A small diaphragm condenser microphone is astonishing value for money. Building on the fixed cardioid capsule. Complete with stand adapter. Great for drums, pianos, and acoustic stringed instruments. The sensitivity is much the same or even higher than as that of other models of mic of a similar type.
In addition, available in a balanced stereo pair with stereo bar and flight case.
This is an ideal compact microphone for instrumental use in recording studios.
Reviews are generally positive.
You can find this Small Condenser also from zZound Music Shop.
M-Audio Pulsar II
The M-Audio Pulsar II is a simple end-fire, cardioid microphone, and is equipped with a gold-sputtered Mylar diaphragm. M-Audio recommends it for acoustic instruments such as guitar, piano, brass, woodwind and strings. They also suggest using pairs as drum overheads, and for room ambience and most types of hand percussion. The Pulsar II can adapt to many recording and live situations. The high-pass filter reduces low-frequency rumble and the potential for overloading mic preamps with low-frequency signals, also include a 10dB switchable attenuation pad.
By this superb deal, You will get professional small-capsule condenser microphone and additional accessories. Also available paired with. A fine choice for drum overheads, acoustic guitar, piano, woodwinds, and room miking.
Now! Musicians Friend offer M-Audio Pulsar II Condenser Microphone Matched Pair for Incredible Price.
Compare Properties of Small Diaphragm Condenser Microphones
| Mic Model | Samson C02 | SE Electronics SE1A | M-Audio Pulsar II |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid | ||
| Filters & Pads | high bass/-10dB pad | - | - | Frequency Response Hz | 40-20000 | 30-20000 | 20 -20000 |
| Rated Impedance Ohm | 200 | 300 | n/a |
| Equivalent Noise level dB | 22 | 17 | 16 |
| Dynamic Range dB | 112 | 130 | 144 |
| Weight g/oz | 170/6 | 135/4.5 | n/a |
| Power Supply | Phantom Power 48V | ||
| Price ~$ | 140-pair | 169 | 149/399-pair |
USB Condenser Microphones
Probably, one of the hotest developments in recent microphone technology has been the USB mic. Samson was a pioneer, while made the first USB studio condenser microphone.
A USB microphone contains all the elements of a traditional microphone. Where it differs from other microphones is its inclusion of two additional circuits: an onboard preamp and an analog to digital converter. The preamp makes it unnecessary for the USB mic to be connected to a mixer or external mic preamp. The A/D converter changes the mic’s output from analog (voltage) to digital (data), so it can be plugged directly into a computer and read by recording software.
However, it can`t use with traditional connections (different preamps, analog mixers, etc).
I think, this is only a good solution for mobile quick plug & record situation. Maybe I have a wrong impression?
HandHeld Condenser Microphones
Handheld Condenser Microphones looked like usual dynamics. These type microphones are designed to bring the studio qualify sound to the stage.
Audio Technica AT2010 is one of the inexpensive handheld condensers, generally these cost more than dynamic microphones.
Shure SM58 Vocal Microphone
The Shure SM58 cardioid dynamic vocal microphone is considered the industry standard for live performance. Moreover, good for sound reinforcement and studio recording. This mic is loosely for universal usage. SM58 remains one of the best selling microphones in the world today. The SM58′s tank-like durability has reached mythic status in the music world.
If You are newbe or haven`t enough knowledge about microphones, choose SM58. It`s absolutely Sure thing for recording vocal, just around 100$.
Buy from Musicians Friend Shure SM58S Mic with Switch
Shure SM57 Instrument Microphone
The legendary Shure SM57 microphone is exceptional for musical instrument pickup and vocals. With its bright, clean sound and contoured frequency response, the SM57 is ideal for live sound reinforcement and recording. It has an extremely effective cardioid pickup pattern which isolates the main sound source while minimizing background noise. In the studio, Shure SM57 is excellent for recording drums, guitar, and woodwinds. It may also give a good result for recording loud vocal.
So, assured choice, for recording guitar amp and drums. Cost the same price as Shure SM58.
By from Musicians Friend Shure SM57 Instrument/Vocal Mic
Sennheiser E 840 S Vocal Microphone
The Sennheiser E840S is a professional super-cardioid vocal microphone developed to cut through high on-stage levels. Strong, durable construction, insensitive to handling noise. The e 840 efficiently suppresses sounds emanating from outside its pick-up angle, and is fitted with a hum compensating coil for reducing electromagnetic interference. This mic sounded really great, while designed especially for vocal performance. Cost about twenty bucks more then SM58 microphone.
Assuredly, this is a good microphone for live performance on stage. As well it may use in studio for recording vocals.
See more about Sennheiser Pro Performance Vocal Microphone
Live presentation with Sennheiser E840
I got just a new widget – Samson C03 Condenser Microphone. This is a dual 19mm capsule, large diaphragm condenser microphone, what should capacitate a good quality recording for affordable price. I made an exploration about different condenser microphones, before I was chosen in favor of Samson C03. My destination was finding out possibly good condenser microphone on tight budget. I be in need of mike for recording acoustic guitar and vocal and my first experiments proved, it`s really fit for these actions.
So, which properties this mike had?
Supposedly, this mike enables recording quality, which are similar to expensive condenser microphones. Yes, it feels good. Samson C03 is unidirectional condenser microphone, switchable to different pickup patterns: SuperCardioid, Omni and Figure 8. This appendage makes it universal, microphone is usable for different miking techniques, without having many apart microphones. Also, it has additionally 2 switches, one for limiting signal flow (-10dB pad switch) and a second is low-cut filter, which you can use to eliminate any unwanted low frequency reproduction. For one, this is useful by recording acoustic guitar, while setting a mike near the sound hole, will amplify low frequencies too much. A function helps to reduce this interference.
Likewise, Optional SP01 Spider Mount is tidy for additional isolation. It looks pretty and had a metal construction sure as hell. This one eliminates noises, which can carry over mike stand to mike diaphragm and may disturb a recording quality. Mike comes with a carry case & swivel mount included. If you will buy in a condenser microphone for vocal recording, then purchase immediately additional Pop Shield too. Also, it can make yourself, but believe me, you need it!
Forsooth, all promised properties are working correctly! Though I haven’t experienced with expensive condenser microphones, I can aver this Samson C03 is a good & sensitive condenser microphone. It can make all what I was expected, and I believe this mike be able to more.
Now, I can suggest Samson C03 for everyone, who need a good large diaphragm condenser microphone for affordable price.
Below you can see recording to test mike properties & sensitivity. Probably, it´s more credible, if only blablablaa. I was made this test in usual room, from distance about 1 foot to the microphone.