Samson Q1U User Manual

P R O F E S S I O N A L M I C R O P H O N E S

DYNAMIC USB MICROPHONE

Contents

Introduction 1

Q1U Features

Installing the

Q1U 2

Getting Started with MAC OS X

Getting Started with Windows XP

Using the Softpre Applet Software

Setting a Good Level

Using the

Operating the

Q1U Applet Software 6

Q1U 7

Powering the Q1U

Polar Pattern

Microphone Placement

Setting Up the Signal Level

P-Popping

Stand Mounting the Q1U

Q1U Specifications

Printed NOVEMBER, 2005 - v1

Samson Technologies Corp. Phone: 1-800-3-SAMSON (1-800-372-6766) Fax: 516-364-3888 www.samsontech.com

Introduction

Congratulations on your purchase of the Samson Q1U Dynamic USB Microphone. The Q1U features a smooth sounding neodymium element, capable of handling high SPL, cleverly interfaced to onboard high quality mic pre, Analog-to-Digital con verter and USB output. The Q1U is perfect for recording your music, podcast or any acoustic audio source on your favorite DAW (Digital Audio Workstation). Just plug in the supplied USB cable, launch your DAW and start recording. For expanded control, install the Samson Softpre applet software and you'll have additional features like programmable GAIN, Low Cut Filter, Input Metering and Phase switch. The Q1U faith fully reproduces a variety of sound sources including vocals, acoustic instruments and overhead cymbals, to name a few and because the Q1U can handle high SPL you can use it on drums or in front of a loud guitar amp. The extended frequency and fast transient response insures an accurate reproduction with linear characteristics from bottom to top.

In these pages, you’ll find a detailed description of the features of the Q1U Dynamic USB Microphone, as well as step-by-step instructions for its setup and use, and full specifications. You’ll also find a warranty card enclosed—please don’t forget to fill it out and mail it in so that you can receive online technical support and so we can send you updated information about these and other Samson products in the future.

With proper care, your Q1U will operate trouble free for many years. We recommend you record your serial number in the space provided below for future reference.

Serial number: __________________________

Date of purchase: ________________________

Should your unit ever require servicing, a Return Authorization number (RA) must be obtained before shipping your unit to Samson. Without this number, the unit will not be accepted. Please call Samson at 1-800-3SAMSON (1-800-372-6766) for a Return Authorization number prior to shipping your unit. Please retain the original packing materials and if possible, return the unit in the original carton and packing materials.

Q1U Features

• Dynamic Microphone with USB Digital Output.

• Compatible with any computer based Digital Audio Workstation.

• The extremely detailed sound reproduction makes it ideal for recording vocals, acoustic instruments and just about any other sound source.

• High Quality AD convertor with 16 Bit, 48K sampling rate.

• Downloadable Softpre applet for MAC and PC pro vide additional features like Programmable Gain, LED Input Metering, Low Cut Filter, and Phase.

• Super Cardioid pick-up pattern.

• Solid Die Cast construction.

• Mic Stand Mount and 10 foot USB cable included.

Installing the Q1U

Installing the Q1U is a simple procedure that takes just a few minutes. Since the Q1U is USB compliant, you can use either a MAC or PC, connect the included USB cable and plug and play. You will be able to control your Q1U using the standard audio interface controls in the MAC or Windows operating system. You will find detailed instructions on setting up with MAC OS and Windows in the following sections of this manual.

For expanded control you can install the Samson Q1U Softpre applet software which will give you programmable Gain and a digital Input Meter so you can adjust the internal digital microphone pre-amplifier to the correct level. You can also use the Low Cut Filter to remove unwanted low frequency rumble. There's even a Phase switch so you can invert the signal polarity when using multiple microphones.

Since it is possible to adjust the level of the signal from the operating system prefer ences, and in your recording software, it's a good idea to be familiar with these con trols in the MAC or Windows operating system. Therefore, we recommend that you follow the section Getting Started with Windows XP or Getting Started with MAC OS X before installing the Samson Softpre applet software.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

program, so we recommend that you install the microphone on your computer without the Softpre first. Then, please check our website for a list of programs that work with the Softpre applet.

The Softpre applet is not compatible with every recording software

+ 8 hidden pages