User manual SAMSON Q1U

[. . . ] 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. [. . . ] The Wave In window sets the computercontrolled gain or mutes the microphone. The gain is from ­62 dB to +48 dB (figure 4). Figure 4 4 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. 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. After you download the applet software, run the installation program and start to use the Samson Softpre software. Once you have the Softpre software installed you can operate your Q1U by following the simple instructions outlined in the following sections of this manual. Setting a Good Level One of the most important fundamentals of good audio engineering is setting proper levels. Even on a small typical mixer, or basic multi-track recorder, there are several controls that affect the level of a signal as it makes it's way from your sound source to your speakers and then, ultimately, the level of your headphone or monitor system. These include pre-amp gain, EQ, aux sends and returns, channel fader level, bus or group levels, and finally, the master fader. That's not to mention the level of the 5:15 train on its way to Pennsylvania station who's thunderous crossing horn can be picked up from 5 miles away while miking a nylon string guitar, despite the use of double moving blankets over the windows of your project studio. But that's another story with another set of disciplines. Start off by being aware that anytime you change any control in the audio path, you are probably affecting gain somewhere. Then, be sure to carefully monitor the levels on your input and output meters to avoid a clipped signal. You should never record any peaks in any digital recorder. Also, remember your ear is the most sophisticated and calibrated piece of test gear you have. So, setting a good level should be approached from a technical point of view, and then confirmed, by a creative point of view. INPUT GAIN ­ Fader The Q1U has an onboard, digitally controlled analog INPUT GAIN stage which is controlled by the Q1U software fader. The fader control provides a range of gain from -62 to +48 dB. The Q1U can accept levels from most any sound source by using the INPUT GAIN fader. You can use the INPUT GAIN control to adjust the level of your input signal. It is a good idea to start with the level low and raise it up as you need. Be sure to monitor the input digital VU METER and try to set the INPUT GAIN control so that the meter reads just below the CLIP indicator. [. . . ] A more clever solution is to use a external pop filter like the Samson PS01. You can also try placing the microphone slightly off axis (on a slight angle) from the vocalist. This can often solve the problem without using an external pop filter. However, for a more reliable solution, try an external pop filter like the Samson PS-01. Stand Mounting the Q1U The Q1U can be mounted to a standard microphone stand using the included mic clip. [. . . ]