Samson G-Track Pro USB Microphone User Manual

1. Introduction

The Samson G-Track Pro is a versatile USB microphone designed for a wide range of audio recording applications, including music, podcasts, streaming, and gaming. It features an integrated audio interface and mixer, allowing for simultaneous recording of vocals and instruments. This manual provides detailed instructions on setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your G-Track Pro microphone to ensure optimal performance.

2. Key Features

• All-in-one: Professional USB microphone with audio interface. Record your voice and instrument at the same time.
• The right mic: Ideal for streaming, gaming, podcasting, and recording music.
• At your fingers: Front panel mixer with microphone level, instrument level and headphone volume controls. Selectable Mono or 2-Track recording modes and Direct Monitor On/Off.
• Built for the studio: Dual 1" (25mm) condenser capsules with three selectable pick up patterns - Cardioid (unidirectional), bidirectional, and omnidirectional.
• High Definition 24-bit Audio: Plug-and-play, no driver installation required.
• Connect: 1/4" instrument input for connecting guitars or line level devices.
• Listen: 1/8" stereo headphone output with level control for zero-latency monitoring.
• Built tough: Die-cast zinc construction with heavy gauge mesh grille and integrated desktop base.

3. Setup Guide

The Samson G-Track Pro is designed for simple plug-and-play operation. Follow these steps to get started:

1. Unpack: Carefully remove the G-Track Pro microphone, USB cable, and mic stand swivel from the packaging.
2. Placement: Place the microphone on a stable, flat surface using its integrated desktop base. Ensure it is positioned optimally for your recording needs.
3. Connect to Computer: Connect the included USB cable from the USB port on the bottom of the G-Track Pro to an available USB port on your computer (PC or Mac). The microphone will be automatically recognized by your operating system, and no additional drivers are typically required.
4. Connect Headphones (Optional): For direct monitoring, plug your 1/8" (3.5mm) stereo headphones into the headphone jack located on the rear of the microphone.
5. Connect Instrument (Optional): If you plan to record an instrument, connect your 1/4" instrument cable from your guitar or line-level device to the instrument input on the rear of the microphone.
6. Select Input Mode: Use the 'INST/MIC LINE' switch on the front of the microphone to select the appropriate input mode (Instrument/Mic or Line).
7. Adjust Levels: Use the 'MIC', 'INST', and 'VOLUME' knobs on the front panel to set appropriate recording and monitoring levels.

This image displays the Samson G-Track Pro USB Microphone in its silver finish, mounted on its integrated desktop stand. The front panel features the Samson logo, G-Track Pro model name, and control knobs for volume, instrument, and microphone levels. Polar pattern selection switches are visible at the top.

4. Operating the G-Track Pro

Understanding the controls and polar patterns will help you achieve the best audio quality for your recordings.

4.1 Front Panel Controls

• Mute Button: Press to instantly mute or unmute the microphone output. The LED indicator will change color to show status.
• MIC Knob: Adjusts the input gain for the microphone.
• INST Knob: Adjusts the input gain for the 1/4" instrument input.
• VOLUME Knob: Controls the overall headphone output level.
• MONO/2-TRACK Switch: Selects the recording mode. In MONO, both microphone and instrument inputs are summed to a single mono track. In 2-TRACK, the microphone is recorded to one track and the instrument to another, allowing for independent mixing in your software.
• Polar Pattern Selector: Allows you to choose between three pickup patterns:
• Cardioid: Picks up sound directly in front of the microphone, ideal for vocals and single instruments, minimizing background noise.
• Omnidirectional: Picks up sound equally from all directions, suitable for group discussions or capturing ambient room sound.
• Figure-8 (Bidirectional): Picks up sound from the front and rear of the microphone, ideal for two-person interviews or duets.

4.2 Rear Panel Controls

• MONITOR ON/OFF Switch: Toggles direct monitoring on or off. When on, you hear your input directly through the headphones with zero latency.
• 1/8" Headphone Output: Connect your headphones here for monitoring.
• 1/4" Instrument Input: Connect your instrument or line-level device.

A detailed view of the Samson G-Track Pro's front panel, highlighting the Mute button and three rotary knobs for adjusting Volume, Instrument input level, and Microphone input level. Switches for polar pattern selection (Cardioid, Omni, Figure-8) and recording modes (Mono, 2-Track) are also visible.

This image shows the rear of the Samson G-Track Pro microphone, featuring the 1/8-inch stereo headphone output for monitoring and a 1/4-inch instrument input for connecting guitars or line-level devices. A 'Monitor On/Off' switch is also present.

5. Maintenance

To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your Samson G-Track Pro microphone, follow these maintenance guidelines:

• Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the microphone. Avoid using abrasive cleaners, solvents, or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the finish or internal components.
• Storage: When not in use, store the microphone in a clean, dry environment, away from extreme temperatures, humidity, and direct sunlight.
• Handling: Handle the microphone with care. Avoid dropping it or subjecting it to strong impacts, which can damage the sensitive internal capsules.
• Cable Care: Ensure the USB cable is not kinked, pinched, or excessively bent. Always grasp the connector, not the cable, when plugging or unplugging.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Samson G-Track Pro, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

• No Sound Output:
  • Ensure the microphone is properly connected to your computer's USB port.
  • Check that the G-Track Pro is selected as the input and output device in your computer's sound settings and recording software.
  • Verify that the 'Mute' button on the microphone is not engaged (LED should not be red).
  • Adjust the 'MIC' and 'INST' gain knobs to appropriate levels.
  • Increase the 'VOLUME' knob for headphone monitoring.
• Distorted Sound:
  • Reduce the 'MIC' or 'INST' gain knobs to prevent clipping (distortion). The LED indicator should ideally be green, occasionally flashing yellow, but not red.
  • Ensure your recording software's input levels are not set too high.
• Computer Not Recognizing Microphone:
  • Try connecting the microphone to a different USB port on your computer.
  • Restart your computer.
  • Ensure your operating system is up to date.
• Excessive Background Noise:
  • Ensure you are using the appropriate polar pattern for your recording environment (e.g., Cardioid for single voice, minimizing room noise).
  • Reduce the microphone gain if it's picking up too much ambient sound.
  • Record in a quieter environment if possible.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support regarding your Samson G-Track Pro microphone, please refer to the official Samson website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

A woman is shown playing an acoustic guitar and singing into a microphone, demonstrating a typical use case for the Samson G-Track Pro in a home studio or creative environment.