Packaging:

The Samson C01U USB Microphone comes in a well-designed package, depicting the unit and its accessories in nice small photos. Key points on the front include mention of features such as the 19mm internal shock-mounted diaphragm ensuring pristine studio-quality recordings, solid metal construction, advanced electronics with high-quality A to D converters, and that it is USB bus powered. The back of the box states that the C01U is "Ideal for Podcasting" and that it includes Cakewalk Recording Software and Sonar LE Digital Audio Workstation.



All four sides of the box are backed with information and bullet points, as well as a list of the specifications (as listed previously).

The Basics:

Open the box and we find another box with the accessories shown in the below left image. You get a microphone stand, microphone clip, carrying pouch, USB cable, quick start guide, manual, and software CD. The software includes Cakewalk Sonar LE Edition and Cakewalk VST Adapter 4 for ‘plugging’ in MIDI instruments. A warranty registration card is included, as well.



In the above right image we get a look at the actual microphone provided for review. If you’re used to computer microphones that are pencil-thin and light as a fly, beware. The C01U main unit is rather heavy – its professional heritage is showing.