Samson Q1U Dynamic USB Microphone

The Samson Q1U fits perfect in line with Samson's other recent offerings: low cost, useful, and high-quality recording gear, easily within reach of any studio's budget. With USB connectivity and the incredibly easy yet powerful SoftPre software, the Q1U would be a fantastic addition to any studio looking to record vocals or Podcasts. It doesn't sound like a $50 microphone; in fact, you'll be surprised just how good it sounds for what you paid. It's not perfect: when you're applying high gain, you'll get some noise, but that's to be expected at this price point. Keep your gain where necessary, and you're fine.

If you're looking to record vocals in Garageband or make a Podcast, this microphone is quite simply one of the the best values you'll find, not to mention the easiest way to get started. Retailing at $49.95, it's really easy: plug in the mic to a USB port, start your recording program, and you're ready to go. In fact, it's inspired me to consider starting a Home Recording Podcast! While it may not be the best choice if you're wanting to record acoustic instruments, Samson's other USB offerings (Reviewed here, as well!) will fill that gap.

Easy Connectivity

The Q1U has an easy USB interface on the bottom; simply plug it in, and you're ready to go. One warning: when testing with my Macbook, using the USB plug close to the screen sometimes causes issues, which I've heard is also a recurring issue with other USB audio devices. Make sure the USB port you're using offers full power available (that means using a low-powered hub will cause issues), and you'll be fine.

SoftPre

I'm seriously impressed with the SoftPre application that you can download from Samson's website. I've seen this type of control for higher-end microphones, and for a $50 mic, I was surprised. Here's how it works: plug in the mic, and bring up the SoftPre app (available for both Mac and Windows), and you'll have a great level meter, level control, high pass filter, and phase control, all features you'd normally have to access using an external preamp. The Q1U works just as well without the SoftPre application, too.

Sound Quality

Sound quality is really good for voice; silky smooth mids (where it counts) and decent but not overwhelming low end. I also tried the C1U on acoustic guitar, and while it wasn't bad, I certainly liked the C1U's big brother, the CO1U, much better for this application.