Pricing and availability
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Average Price: $132
Standard/Professional
$100
$401+
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Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 4 merchants for "Samson C02". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.
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Description
Meet the Samson C02, a versatile pencil-style condenser microphone designed to capture your sound with precision both on stage and in the studio. Known for its tight cardioid polar pattern, the C02 effectively minimizes feedback, making it a reliable choice for live performances and recording sessions. Crafted with an extended frequency response, it delivers crisp and clear sound reproduction, ensuring every nuance of your music is captured with exceptional detail.
The Samson C02 is built to withstand high sound pressure levels, which makes it perfect for a range of miking situations, from delicate acoustic instruments to thunderous drum kits. Its ultra-sensitive, low-mass diaphragm is adept at picking up subtle sound details, while the rugged brass construction ensures durability in demanding environments. Included with the C02 is a special shock-mounted mic holder and foam windscreen, which work together to minimize noise and offer protection against environmental elements and plosive sounds during vocal performances.
Whether you're a seasoned professional or an aspiring musician, the Samson C02 offers an outstanding balance of performance and affordability, making it an invaluable addition to your audio arsenal.
Key Features:
- Pencil-style, small-diaphragm condenser microphone
- Tight cardioid polar pattern for feedback rejection
- Extended frequency response for clear sound reproduction
- High SPL handling for versatile miking applications
- Rugged brass construction for durability
- Includes shock-mounted mic holder and foam windscreen
- Gold-plated XLR connector for enhanced signal integrity
- Comes with a foam-lined impact-resistant carrying case for portability
- Requires +48V phantom power
Owner's manual
Samson C02 User ManualProduct specs
| Microphone Type | Condenser |
| Mono/Stereo | Stereo Pair |
| Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
| Diaphragm Size | 0.47" (12mm) |
| Frequency Response | 50Hz-20kHz |
| Max SPL | 134dB |
| Output Impedance | 200 ohms |
| Self Noise | 22dB (A weighted) |
| Connector | XLR |
| Weight | 0.37 lbs. |
FAQs
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Does the Samson C02 microphone require phantom power to operate?
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Yes, the Samson C02 microphones require +48V phantom power to operate, which is standard for most condenser microphones and is typically supplied by audio interfaces or mixers.
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What type of applications are the Samson C02 microphones best suited for?
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The Samson C02 microphones are ideal for capturing detailed sound in stereo applications, making them perfect for recording instruments like acoustic guitars, pianos, and drum overheads, as well as for dialog recording.
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How does the cardioid polar pattern of the Samson C02 affect its performance?
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The cardioid polar pattern of the Samson C02 microphones helps to focus on sound sources directly in front of the mic while reducing pickup of ambient noise and sound from the sides and rear, which is beneficial for minimizing background noise in recordings.
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Are the Samson C02 microphones suitable for live sound applications?
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Yes, the Samson C02 microphones are suitable for live sound applications due to their ability to handle high sound pressure levels and their cardioid pattern, which helps reduce feedback and capture clear audio.
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What accessories are included with the Samson C02 microphones?
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The Samson C02 microphones come with a protective carry case, shock-mounted mic clips, and windscreens, providing everything needed for secure setup and transport.
Videos
Podcastage
Samson C02 Review / Test (vs. M5, sE7, KM184)
Reviews
PROS
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Excellent sound quality comparable to more expensive mics
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Robust build, suitable for weekly use in multiple venues
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Bright, accurate, and open sound profile
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Versatile for recording live bands, vocals, and instruments
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Superb value; great performance at an affordable price
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Tends to favor highs, beneficial when blended with darker mics
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Tight polar pattern good for rejecting unwanted bleed
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Includes a durable case for protection
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Useful for both professional and home studios
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Can produce a natural sound with minimal processing
CONS
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Tendency to favor highs might require adjustment for balance
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Fragile; prone to damage and buzzing from impacts
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Can be noisy, making them less ideal for main vocal mic
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Requires careful placement due to sensitivity to adjustments
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One of the clips reported to break after minimal use
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Samson C02.
Features and functionality
Use cases and applications
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Cardioid microphones like the Samson CO2 are recommended for small spaces due to their uniform frequency response.
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In echoey or untreated spaces, dynamic mics with tight polar patterns can outperform small-diaphragm condensers.
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The Samson C02, while not a shotgun, avoids the reflection issues typical of shotguns but may not be the best choice due to its noise level in small, reflective spaces.
Source
Comparisons
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Shotgun mics, like the Deity D3, are less effective in reverberant rooms compared to cardioid options like the Samson CO2.
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For those considering alternatives, the AT875R is suggested as a more compact shotgun mic suitable for car setups, as it can be mounted on a pole for outdoor use too.
Source
Value and pricing
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For its price, the Samson CO2 is considered a remarkable choice among small-diaphragm condensers.
Source
Setup and maintenance
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Treating the room acoustically enhances performance more significantly than switching microphone types.
Source
4.5 out of 5
Based on 1 Review and 13 Ratings
343
Directional bright condenser
I actually use this a lot. Rolling off some highs helps. Great for distance roomier sounds on your source. Also good up close, just like I said bright.
Artist usage
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Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Samson C02, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
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