Samson Technologies C03

The C03 is made by Samson and it is a multi pattern condenser microphone with switch able cardioid , omni and figure 8 pickup patterns. It also has a high pass filter and 10dB pad switches. The Samson C03 comes with a carry case and a swivel mount. I do suggest getting the shock mount, it doesn’t come with it but for a little more money they will include the SP01 Shock mount. It will make a big difference in your recordings and it is almost a must have. They should have included it though. The C03 is very affordable and can give you a great sound right out of the box. No matter if you are recording vocals or instruments, live or in the studio the C03 will deliver with out a doubt.


OVERALL OPINION

I was on the fence with this microphone when thinking about how good it would record a guitar and a few other instruments but after using it on them I thought it sounded great, soon after a few other people that I record with where talking about how good it sounded and I knew that I had a gem! The quality you get for this microphone should cost double what it does now. Samson has geared this microphone for the home and mobile musician and with the 3 switch able patterns you will be able to record in almost any situation. You can even use this microphone for pod casting or running a little talk program from your pc. Because of the USB connection that can go straight to your computer. The Samson C03 is a great buy in my opinion for anyone from beginner to pro. The best part of this microphone is that the price is affordable and the quality is very good. I really don’t have any complaints or negative things to say about the Samson C03.

Samson's C03 is a large diaphram condensor microphone, offerring 3 distinct patterns; supercardoid, omnidirectional, and figure 8 all of which are available at the switch of a button. It features a switchable high-pass filter and 10dB pad, as well as a gold-plated XLR connector, thats nice to see in this low low price range.

OVERALL OPINION

Because this mic boasts multuple patterns it is a versatile powerhouse of ambient recording options.
What I found was a brilliance of sound reflection, and an excellent transient response that is smooth throughout the whole range. It has a fairly detailed top end and warmth in the bass frequencies, but is rather neutral when I began comparing it with some other budget mics in my arsenal, so apparently this mic does not overtly "color" the sound of your signal. Impressive in this range.
I found this mic to be incredibly crisp and clean on acoustic stringed instruments such as guitar and mandolin, and retain an articulate bass response from an electric bass cab when paired with a dynamic mic off center by utilyzing the bass cut.
I found it to be more transparent and ultimately not as "warm" as my mxl v67, but it was more accurate by far. Again, this mic does not color the signal to a noticeable degree in my opinion.
This mic might not be my "go-to" for recording guitars, but it could certainly provide just the right frequncy response for tracking an accurate uncolored vocal, or piano. I would reccomend this to anyone who needs an affordable large diaphram condensor for live purposes, like a bluegrass band who needs a crisp figure-8 mic for jamming out.

So basically, don't let the 100 dollar price tag fool you, this mic is quite capable, accurate, and responsive while being incredibly versatile with its multi-pattern capability. This is a perfect choice for guys just starting out buying their first condensor, or for those who need quality go-to microphones and are on a budget.