PROFESSIONAL MICROPHONES DYNAMIC USB MICROPHONE
Contents Introduction 1 Q1U Features 1 Installing the Q1U 2 Getting Started with MAC OS X 3 Getting Started with Windows XP 4 Using the Softpre Applet Software 5 Setting a Good Level 5 Using the Q1U Applet Software 6 Operating the Q1U 7 Powering the Q1U 7 Polar Pattern 7 Microphone Placement 7 Setting Up the Signal Level 8 P-Popping 8 Stand Mounting the Q1U 8 Q1U Specifications 9 Copyright 2005, Samson Technologies Corp. Printed NOVEMBER, 2005 - v1 Samson Technologies Corp.
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 converter 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.
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.
Getting Started with MAC OS X The following example is for setting up the Q1U in MAC OS X . 1. Plug in microphone. The LED will light to indicate it is receiving USB power. The MAC will recognize the USB audio device and automatically install a universal driver. 2. To select the Q1U as the computers audio input, open the System Preferences from the dock or the main Apple Menu (figure 1). Figure 1 3. Next open the Sound preference (figure 2). 4. Now, click in the Input tab and select Q1U (figure 3).
Getting Started with Windows XP The following example is for setting up the Q1U in Windows XP with Service Pack 2. Other versions may vary slightly. 1. Plug in microphone. The LED will light to indicate it is receiving USB power. Windows will recognize the USB audio device and automatically install the universal drivers (figure 1). (These balloons will not appear next time you plug it in, as the microphone drivers are already installed.
Using the Softpre Applet Installing the Q1U Softpre Software The Q1U can work with most audio software by simply connecting the microphone to your computer using the supplied USB cable. However, to take advantage of the advance features you should install the Samson Softpre software. Getting the software is easy. Just type samsontech.com into your favorite internet browser, look for the Softpre applet link and follow the on screen instructions to download the applet.
Using the Softpre Applet DIGITAL VU METER - Input Level To monitor the signal being sent from the Q1U, there is an digital VU METER with a scale from infinity to Digital Maximum or CLIP. The level displayed on the meter will be affected by the Input Gain Fader so be sure that you have that set to the correct position for your sound source. The digital VU METER features “VU” ballistics, which means it reacts to the signal based on an average level.
Operating the Q1U Powering the Q1U The Q1U is a dynamic microphone, however since it has internal electronics, e.g. digitally controlled mic pre and analog-to-digital convert, the microphone requires an active power supply. This is not a problem since the Q1U receives its power from the USB bus. Simply connect the microphone to the computers USB port and the microphone is ready to operate. The Q1U features a power on LED, which will illuminate when USB power is present.
Operating the Q1U can make some pretty amazing equalization adjustments by slightly changing the angle of the capsule to the sound source. This can be a very useful technique in capturing the optimum sound of drum set, acoustic guitar, piano or other instruments in a live room or sound stage.
Q1U Specifications Q1U Specifications Type Dynamic USB Microphone Frequency Response 50 Hz - 16 kHz Polar Pattern Super Cardioid Rated Impedance 90Ω Power Supply USB 5V Current consumption < 30mA Connector USB B-type Dimensions Diameter Total length 2.09 in. / 53 mm 6.09 in. / 180 mm Weight 12 oz. / 370 g Specifications subject to change without notice.
Samson Technologies Corp. Phone: 1-800-3-SAMSON (1-800-372-6766) Fax: 516-364-3888 www.samsontech.
