Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 2 stores. Prices updated .

Amazon
4.3 (557)
$189.99 New
$126.56 Used (Very Good)
Reverb
4.0 (1)
$50.00 2 available Used

Average Price: $120

Standard/Professional

$100

$401+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Unleash your creativity and elevate your recordings with the Samson C01U USB Studio Condenser Mic. Designed for musicians, podcasters, and content creators alike, this microphone seamlessly bridges the gap between professional studio sound and the accessibility of USB connectivity. Whether you're a seasoned musician or a budding podcaster, the C01U delivers pristine audio quality without the hassle of additional equipment.

This mic features a large-diaphragm design, inspired by the acclaimed C01, ensuring every nuance of your performance is captured with clarity. The 19mm internal shock-mounted diaphragm and cardioid pickup pattern work together to minimize unwanted noise, focusing on what matters most—your voice and music. With its plug-and-play compatibility, the C01U connects effortlessly to both Mac and PC, making it an indispensable tool in your recording arsenal.

Perfect for capturing vocals, acoustic instruments, and more, the C01U also boasts a high-quality A/D converter with a 16-bit/48kHz sampling rate, ensuring your recordings are as vibrant and detailed as your live performances. Its durable die-cast construction ensures longevity, while the included swivel stand mount and 10-foot USB cable provide flexibility and ease of use right out of the box.

Key Features:

  • Large-diaphragm condenser with USB digital output
  • 19mm Capsule with 3-micron diaphragm
  • Hyper cardioid pick-up pattern
  • High-quality A/D converter with 16-bit/48kHz sampling rate
  • Compatible with any computer-based Digital Audio Workstation
  • Seamless integration with Mac and PC
  • Solid die-cast construction for durability
  • Swivel stand mount and 10-foot USB cable included

Product specs

Brand Samson
Model C01U USB Microphone
Year 2010s
Categories Microphones
Electronics Digital, Solid State
Microphone Type Digital/USB
Polar Pattern Cardioid
Wired/Wireless Wired

FAQs

What is the primary use of the Samson C01U USB Studio Condenser Mic?

The Samson C01U USB Studio Condenser Mic is designed for home studio recording, podcasting, and voiceover work, offering a simple USB connection for easy setup and high-quality audio capture.

Does the Samson C01U require any additional equipment to start recording?

No, the Samson C01U connects directly to your computer via USB, eliminating the need for additional interfaces or preamps, making it plug-and-play for immediate recording.

What is the polar pattern of the Samson C01U and why is it important?

The Samson C01U features a cardioid polar pattern, which is ideal for capturing sound from the front while minimizing background noise from the sides and rear, making it perfect for focused vocal recordings.

Is the Samson C01U compatible with all major recording software?

Yes, the Samson C01U is compatible with most major DAWs and recording software, including Ableton Live, Pro Tools, and GarageBand, on both Windows and Mac operating systems.

How does the sound quality of the Samson C01U compare to other USB mics in its range?

The Samson C01U delivers clear and detailed audio quality, making it a competitive choice for budget-conscious users seeking professional sound in a USB microphone format.

SilverWing9999

SilverWing9999

Review of the Samson C01U USB Studio Condenser Microphone

Video thumbnail for Review of the Samson C01U USB Studio Condenser Microphone by SilverWing9999

Review of the Samson C01U USB Studio Condenser Microphone

SilverWing9999

SilverWing9999

Video thumbnail for How Grax sets up his Samson C01U Condenser Microphone by Grax Bishop

How Grax sets up his Samson C01U Condenser Microphone

Grax Bishop

Grax Bishop

Reviews

PROS

  • Delivers professional, clear sound quality without needing additional EQ or noise removal

  • Excellent for capturing deep voices clearly

  • Cardioid pattern effectively reduces background noise

  • Simple USB plug-and-play setup, no need for XLR or external mixers

  • Durable build quality, withstands daily use

  • Suitable for versatile applications: podcasts, rap vocals, instruments

  • Affordable price point for the quality offered

  • Comes with a stand and software, fully-equipped for immediate use

  • Integrates well with recording software like Audacity and SONAR X1 LE

CONS

  • Lacks a direct mute button, which could be inconvenient for some users

  • Can be noisy if gain settings are too high

  • Limited to 16-bit/44.1-48kHz sample rate, not ideal for high-end studio work

  • USB connection restricts use with other microphones simultaneously

  • Sensitive to environmental noise, requires a quiet recording space or noise reduction software

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Samson C01U USB Studio Condenser Mic.

Features and functionality

  • The Samson C01U tends to record with a flat profile, lacking in the low end, which helps avoid clipping and reduces plosive sounds.

    Source
  • The supercardioid pattern picks up sound broadly, including some from behind, necessitating careful positioning to optimize signal-to-noise ratio.

    Source

Software and compatibility

  • Downloading Samson Sound Deck can address white noise issues by providing a built-in noise reduction feature for the C01U.

    Source
  • Bandicam can lower audio bitrate, so using Audacity or Dxtory for recording might improve clarity and allow for better track separation and EQ adjustments.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Using a pop filter is recommended to reduce "p" pops and manage air blasts, while adjusting mic distance can enhance sound quality.

    Source
  • Switching USB ports may be necessary to enable certain features like noise reduction in Samson Sound Deck.

    Source
  • Position the mic close to your mouth and adjust volume down to prevent distortion, ensuring clarity and minimizing background noise.

    Source

User experience

  • Some users experience high sensitivity settings causing white noise, requiring adjustments in gain-staging and possibly software solutions for optimal performance.

    Source
  • Some report the mic as "awfully loud" when too close, stressing the need for distance adjustments and volume control to achieve balanced audio levels.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Recording in WAV format is recommended for maintaining audio quality during editing and compression, especially when paired with video content.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Samson C01U

soundonsound.com

The Samson C01U USB Studio Condenser Mic is perfect for budget-conscious home studio users, offering a straightforward plug-and-play setup without the need for additional gear. Its sound quality is decent for close-up vocals and instruments, although it falls short of high-end mics in transparency and noise levels. A handy software applet allows for some control over gain, but the mic struggles with digital noise on certain Mac systems, which may be a dealbreaker for some. Overall, it’s a practical choice for those starting out or needing a simple recording solution on-the-go.

Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star

More Samson Condenser Microphones

Accessories & Related Items

Artist usage

Community setups

Similar

Gear Guides