Review on 🎤 Professional-grade Samson Q9U Dynamic Broadcast Microphone with Versatile XLR/USB Connectivity by Chris Santos

After using the Samson Meteor mic for several years I decided to upgrade due to weak USB issues -Micro connector on the Meteor. The Q9U uses a USB-C connector, which was the main reason I skipped other brands when choosing. The second reason I chose the Q9U was that I was hoping the low-pass filter would help muffle noise from a noisy ventilation system outside my office. without the need for software filters. At first impression I was surprised by the size of the microphone. I was expecting it to be around 1.5 inches in diameter, but it's a solid 2.2 inches and very heavy. That's a plus for me. I wanted to use it on a Samson desktop stand where weight is not a concern. Mechanically, the microphone makes a very solid impression. The filter/amp switches on the back are also well done. The only issue I had is the mic mute switch on the top panel. It feels fairly faint, with no noticeable click when pressed or pulled, and while it protrudes slightly when the mic is on, it's hard to tell if it's on or off at first glance. Unfortunately, I was not enthusiastic about the actual function of the microphone. When connected to a computer with the recording volume set to maximum (increased to 150% in the Ubuntu Pulsaudio settings), I was only able to record my voice when I spoke directly into the microphone, which is an inch away. I also tried it on Mac with the same results. This may be an issue with the specific device I received and not the Q9U in general. I didn't have a chance to test the sound quality. The microphone didn't pick up any noise from the ventilation system, but neither did it pick up my voice unless I spoke very loudly. It reached a comfortable listening level both in the music player app and in the system volume. I'm quite sensitive to loud noises and typically have volume levels of 20% or less (with the Samson Meteor), so the Q9U's output level was also questionable. After several hours of fumbling, I'm sending it back and trying my luck with another brand.