Samson Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone Recording and Podcasting Pack User Manual

Package Contents

• Samson Q2U dynamic handheld microphone
• Mic clip
• Desktop tripod stand
• Tripod stand extension
• 2.25m USB cable
• 3m XLR cable
• Windscreen

Getting Started

1. Unpack the Samson Q2U microphone and all accessories from the box.
2. Attach the microphone clip to the microphone.
3. Attach the desktop tripod stand to the bottom of the microphone clip.
4. For additional height, attach the tripod stand extension to the desktop tripod stand and then attach the microphone clip to the extension.
5. Place the windscreen over the microphone head to reduce plosive sounds and protect the microphone from moisture and dust.

Connecting the Microphone

1. Choose the appropriate cable for your connection: USB for connecting to a computer, or XLR for connecting to a mixer, audio interface, or portable PA system.
2. Connect the chosen cable to the corresponding output on the bottom of the microphone.
3. Connect the other end of the cable to your computer, mixer, audio interface, or PA system.

Monitoring Audio

1. Connect your headphones to the 1/8" (3.5mm) headphone output on the bottom of the microphone.
2. Adjust the headphone volume using the level control knob on the microphone.

Recording Audio

1. Turn on the microphone using the On/Off switch.
2. Launch your preferred audio recording software on your computer or device.
3. Select the Samson Q2U microphone as the input source in your audio software settings.
4. Position the microphone close to the sound source and start recording.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Samson Q2U microphone compatible with smartphones and tablets?

A: Yes, the Samson Q2U microphone can be used with iPhones and iPads via Apple's Lightning to USB Camera Adapter, and with Android devices via a Host OTG cable.

Q: Can I use the Samson Q2U microphone for live stage performances?

A: Yes, the Samson Q2U microphone features both XLR and USB outputs, making it suitable for live stage performances, as well as home/studio and mobile recording.

Q: Do I need to install any drivers for the Samson Q2U microphone?

A: No, the Samson Q2U microphone is a plug-and-play device and does not require any special drivers to work with your computer or device.

Q: What is the frequency response of the Samson Q2U microphone?

A: The Samson Q2U microphone has a frequency response of 50Hz–15kHz, ensuring clear, detailed, and accurate audio capture.

Q: Can I use the Samson Q2U microphone with a boom arm or shock mount?

A: Yes, the Samson Q2U microphone can be used with a boom arm or shock mount. Simply remove the microphone from the included desktop tripod stand and attach it to your preferred mounting option.

Q: What are the features of the Samson Technologies Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone Recording and Podcasting Pack?
A: The Samson Technologies Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone Recording and Podcasting Pack is a professional handheld dynamic microphone with both USB digital output for connecting to a computer and XLR analog output for connecting to a mixer, audio interface, or portable PA system. It has a cardioid pickup pattern that captures sound from in front of the microphone, minimizing ambient sounds and other room noises for podcasting, home recording, or voiceover work. It also reduces possible feedback in live performance settings. Onboard 1/8" (3.5mm) headphone jack allows for zero-latency monitoring, so you can hear yourself without any delay or echo, plus a mix of your computer audio playback. The Q2U is a plug-and-play device, meaning it doesn’t need any special drivers to work with your computer. It comes complete with everything you need to start recording great sounding projects: an extended desktop stand with mic clip that positions the microphone close to the sound source, a pop-filter for reducing p-pops, and USB and XLR cables.

Q: Can this microphone be used for a multi-host podcast?
A: This microphone is not ideal for a multi-host podcast as it has a cardioid pickup pattern that captures sound from in front of the microphone and less from the side and rear, minimizing ambient sounds and other room noises. If you want a multi-host mic where you can set it on the table and everyone can talk "at it," then look for the Yeti mic.

Q: How well does the microphone pick up a talking level voice from a short distance?
A: Dynamic mics are meant to be close to your mouth and limit some background noise. If you don’t want to worry about having to be up close, then you need a condenser mic. All mics sound best when you’re close, but condenser mics are a little more forgiving if you turn your head away, but they also pick up more background noise.

Q: Is this microphone compatible with both a Mac and an iPhone/iPad?
A: Yes, this microphone will work through USB with macOS, Windows OS, most versions of Linux, and will work with iOS (iPhone/iPad) devices that can use Apple's camera connection kit (30-pin or Lightning ports) as well as newer ones that use USB-C.

Q: Does the mic require phantom power when using the XLR output?
A: No. This is a dynamic mic, no phantom power required.

Q: Can this mic output sound with both XLR and USB at the same time? Also does the switch act more like a mute button or will it turn the power off?
A: The USB and XLR outputs can both be used at the same time. The On/Off switch mutes the audio to the USB and XLR outputs, it does not disconnect the mic from the computer.

Q: What shock mount size fits this mic?
A: The shock mount size for this mic is 31.35mm at the base where the cables plug in and 32.75mm where the on/off switch is.

Q: Would this microphone be a good fit for recording audiobooks?
A: Yes, this microphone should work well with audiobooks.

Q: How does this compare to the ATR2100?
A: While we cannot provide a direct comparison between Samson Technologies Q2U and Audio-Technica ATR2100, we have found that these mice are great for everyday use. They sound great indoors and outside. Expensive high-end mics tend to pick up absolutely every little sound so you actually only sound good in a controlled professional sound room. With these mics, you're good almost anywhere.

Q: Why does it take 1-3 months to ship this product?
A: This may have been a temporary issue with the seller or shipping provider. However, most products should be shipped within a reasonable amount of time.

Q: What are the dimensions and weight of the Samson Technologies Q2U USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone Recording and Podcasting Pack?
A: The product dimensions are 13 x 4 x 10 inches, and it weighs 11.2 ounces or 0.7 pounds.

Q: What is included in the Q2U Recording and Podcasting Pack?
A: The Q2U Recording and Podcasting Pack includes the mic itself, a mic clip, a desktop tripod stand, a tripod stand extension, a 2.25m USB cable, and a 3m XLR cable.