Samson Q6 Dynamic Microphone Owner's Manual

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing the Samson Q6 Dynamic Microphone. The Q6 dynamic microphone brings a high level of accuracy and audio performance to vocal miking applications thanks to its low mass, neodymium element.

The Q6 is a hand held, dynamic microphone that excels in both live performance and recording applications. Equipped with a linear frequency response for superior reproduction, it is also designed to withstand high sound pressure levels. Extremely sensitive, it employs a tight super cardioid pattern to reduce feedback. A special shock-mounted element minimizes handling noise and provides additional protection.

This manual provides a detailed description of the Q6 microphone's features, instructions for use, and full specifications. It also includes a warranty card. Please fill it out and send it in to receive online technical support and updated information about other Samson products.

For servicing, a Return Authorization (RA) number must be obtained before shipping your unit to Samson. Visit samsontech.com/ra or contact support@samsontech.com for an RA number. Retain original packing materials and return the unit in its original carton if possible. For purchases outside the United States, contact your local distributor for warranty and service information.

Features

• Ultra sensitive element picks up all nuances of any performance.
• Super cardioid polar pattern minimizes feedback problems and effectively rejects signals not originating directly in front of the mic capsule.
• Extended range frequency response for optimum reproduction and exceptionally clear, crisp sound.
• Handy ON/OFF switch for on-stage control.
• Special shock-mounting allows movement of the mic element to greatly reduce handling noise.
• Rugged zinc alloy die-casting case ensures reliable performance in even the most demanding environments.
• The Q6 can be mounted on any standard microphone stand (using the included mic clip).
• Withstands high SPLs, lending itself to a wide range of miking situations.
• Low impedance output lets the Q6 send a strong full bandwidth signal over long cable runs.
• Gold plated XLR Connector.

Microphone Placement and Tone Quality

Use these suggestions as a guide for common microphone placement techniques:

• Sound source less than 6 inches away from mic: Full sound, pronounced bass, increased isolation from background noise.
• Sound source 6 inches to 2 feet away from mic: Balanced natural sound, less bass, some background noise.
• Sound source 3 to 6 feet away from mic: Thinner ambient sound.

Guidelines for Microphone Use

• Aim the microphone at the desired source. Keep unwanted sound sources at a 135° angle from the front of the microphone (refer to polar pattern).
• Place the microphone as close to the sound source as possible.
• Use the proximity effect to your advantage: The closer the mic is to the sound source, the more emphasized the bass response will be.
• When operating outdoors, use a foam windscreen to suppress unwanted wind noise.
• Never cup your hand over the microphone grill.

Operating Notes

• The Q6 will boost bass frequencies when the microphone is between 0-6 inches from the sound source. As the sound source moves further away, the bass response will gradually roll off.
• The Q6 has a built-in windscreen that protects against most wind and breathing noise. For adverse conditions like high winds, an optional foam windscreen (Samson part number, WS5) can be used.
• For maximum signal handling capability and minimal distortion, a minimum load impedance of 800 ohms is recommended. A load impedance of 150 ohms will result in reduced output signal strength and output clipping level.

Q6 Hook-up and Mounting

The Q6 connects to any mixer, mixer/amplifier, or mic preamp using a standard microphone cable. Connect the female XLR end directly to the Q6's gold-plated connector and the other end (typically a male XLR or 1/4" connector) to your audio equipment. Detailed wiring diagrams for XLR and XLR to 1/4 cables are provided.

The Q6 can be mounted on a standard microphone stand using the included mic clip or held by hand. Its unique mic element shock mounting generates significantly less handling noise than most other microphones. When handheld, avoid covering the head grille with your hand. Be aware of the proximity effect, which increases low frequencies (bass response) when the microphone is close to the audio source. This can enhance vocal fullness. The Q6 is designed for close-miking and includes a built-in windscreen for pops and sibilance.

Q6 Polar Pattern

A microphone's polar pattern determines how it accepts or rejects signals from different directions. Omnidirectional mics accept signals from all directions, while unidirectional (cardioid) mics primarily accept signals from the front and reject from the sides and rear.

The Q6 utilizes a Super Cardioid pattern. This pattern excels in environments with unwanted ambient sound by focusing on signals directly in front of the mic capsule and rejecting those from behind. This pattern also significantly minimizes feedback issues, which occur when a mic picks up sound from a loudspeaker and re-amplifies it, creating a howling sound.

Polar Pattern Diagram Description: The diagram shows a polar plot illustrating the microphone's sensitivity at various angles. It depicts a heart-shaped pattern, with maximum sensitivity directly at 0° (front) and significantly reduced sensitivity at rear angles (180°), with some sensitivity lobes at the sides.

Q6 Mic Cable Wiring Diagram

The following describes standard XLR and phone jack connections:

XLR Connections

• Male XLR to Female XLR:
  • Male XLR Pin 2 (Hot) connects to Female XLR Pin 2 (Hot).
  • Male XLR Pin 1 (Common) connects to Female XLR Pin 1 (Common).
  • Male XLR Pin 3 (Cold) connects to Female XLR Pin 3 (Cold).

Phone Jack Connections (TS and TRS)

• Male Phone Jack (TS) to Female XLR:
  • Tip (Hot) connects to Female XLR Pin 2 (Hot).
  • Sleeve (Common and Cold) connects to Female XLR Pin 1 (Common) and Pin 3 (Cold).
• Male Phone Jack (TRS) to Female XLR:
  • Tip (Hot) connects to Female XLR Pin 2 (Hot).
  • Ring (Cold) connects to Female XLR Pin 3 (Cold).
  • Sleeve (Common) connects to Female XLR Pin 1 (Common).

Q6 Frequency Chart

Frequency Chart Description: The chart displays the microphone's frequency response. It is a line graph showing decibels (dB) on the vertical axis and frequency (Hz) on the horizontal axis. The line generally shows a relatively flat response across the audible spectrum, with a slight boost in the lower frequencies and a gradual roll-off at higher frequencies, indicating its suitability for vocal applications.

Q6 Specifications