Samson Q7 Dynamic Mic Review / Test
Today I'm talking about a dynamic XLR microphone by Samson; the Samson Q7 Dynamic Microphone.
This is an entry level dynamic microphone that has an insanely high Max SPL of 150dB. This leads me to believe that this would work great in a live situation.
For this video, I am connecting the mic to my computer using the Focusrite Scarlett Solo with my gain set at approximately 75%
If you are interested in this microphone kit, it will set you back $50 on Amazon
What's In the Box
Microphone
Mic Mount
5/8" to 3/8" Mic Stand Adapter
Hardshell Carrying Case
Documentation
Specifications
Frequency Response: 50Hz - 18kHz
Polar Pattern: Super Cardioid
Sensitivity: -57dB
Max SPL: 150dB
Impedance: 200-Ohms
Performance / Features
This mic has no frills or special features. No lights. No switches. Nothing. As far as the build quality, the construction is all metal and it feels incredibly sturdy and well put together. It also has some really nice weight to it. It feels like this mic would be able to handle the wear and tear of live use.
The frequency response of this mic is pretty standard for a dynamic microphone, ranging from 50Hz - 18kHz. However, the sound signature is not my favorite of the dynamic mics I've tested. While listening to the acoustic it sounds like it lacks some high-mids while sounding a bit boomy in the low-mids. All in all, not my favorite EQ from a Samson microphone.
The polar pattern of the mic is Super Cardioid, which means it is extremely focussed. As you can tell during the tests, as soon as I move a little bit off axis the audio drops significantly. That is why I think this microphone would be an excellent decision for live performances as well as those who are concerned with excessive background noise.
Pros
Great build quality
Hardshell Carrying Case
Extremely directional (superb noise rejection)
Relatively cheap
Cons
Quiet output
Not the best EQ tuning
Conclusion
I think this microphone is nothing more than a middle of the road dynamic microphone. It's not a mic I anticipate using for anything in the future, but I won't go so far as to not recommend it.
If you are looking for a relatively cheap microphone for live performances, I think that this would be a great option since it has excellent noise rejection as soon as you get off axis. This means it would work well if you are playing with a full band, as your vocal mic would ignore quite a bit of the guitar amp/drums/etc.
Another use case I think this microphone would be fine for would be let's plays. Once again, the mic does great with noise rejection so you will not pick up as much of your keyboards noise as you would with a regular cardioid condenser mic.
Other than that, I think that you can find a better option within the same price range.
If you have any additional questions about this microphone, leave them on the youtube video, and I will try to reply ASAP.
Buy the Samson Q7 (Affiliate Link)
Global: https://geni.us/samq7