Operating the UB1, Powering the UB1, Polar Pattern

Operating the UB1

Powering the UB1

The UB1 is a condenser microphone, and like all condenser microphones, it has inter- nal electronics that require an active power supply. Traditional studio condensers are almost always powered by a Phantom Power supply which is usually derived from the mixing console. The UB1 receives its power from the USB bus. Simply connect the microphone to the computers USB port and the microphone is ready to operate. The UB1 features a power on LED, which will illuminate when USB power is present.

Polar Pattern

Every microphone has a characteristic polar pattern that determines how well it accepts or rejects signal coming from various areas around the microphone. For example, unidirectional, or cardioid, mics are specifically designed to accept mostly signal coming from directly in front, and to reject signal coming from behind or from the side. In contrast, omnidirectional mics accept all signals regardless of where those signals originate (in front of the mic, behind it, to the side, etc.). The pickup pat- tern utilized by the UB1 is omnidirectional (as shown on page 9). For this reason, the UB1 excels in environments where capturing the sound from all directions around the microphone is desired. The UB1 will pick up the sound in a 360-degree pattern, which makes it ideal for placing in the center of a conference table to record a meet- ing. The polar pattern also determines how prone a particular mic is to inducing feedback. Feedback is that characteristic nasty howling sound that occurs when a mic is placed too close to a loudspeaker—the signal from the loudspeaker is fed into the mic, then into the loudspeaker, then into the mic, over and over again until an oscil- lating tone is generated. Because the UB1 is omnidirectional, special attention to the microphone and speaker placement should be considered in live sound applications.

Microphone Placement

The UB1 was designed primarily for use on a flat surface like a conference table, hanging on a wall, or in a house of worship, on the alter. In order to maximize the sound quality, you must pay careful attention to the placement of your UB1 and how it is positioned for the instrument or vocalist that you are miking. Since the UB1 is

a omnidirectional the microphone will pick-up the sound in a 360 degree pattern, essentially picking up in every direction. This is often a good solution in a conference situation since the UB1 will pick up all around the table. All microphones, especially uni-directional or cardioid microphones, exhibit a phenomenon known as “proxim- ity effect.” Very simply put, proximity effect is a resulting change in the frequency response of a microphone based on the position of the mic capsule relative to the sound source. Generally, you will get a bass boost when miking in close. When you point a cardioid mic directly at the sound source (on axis) you will get the best fre- quency response, however when you start pointing the microphone slightly away (off axis) you will notice the low frequency response dropping off and the microphone will start to sound thinner. However, since the UB1 is omni directional it exhibits very little proximity effect.

UB1 specifications

The Samson UB1 is a cutting-edge active studio monitor that has gained recognition for its impressive sound quality and user-friendly design, making it a staple in both professional and home studio environments. Engineered to provide an accurate representation of audio, the UB1 is ideal for musicians, producers, and sound engineers who require precision in their work.

One of the standout features of the Samson UB1 is its unique design, which incorporates a 1-inch silk dome tweeter paired with a 5-inch polypropylene woofer. This combination allows the monitor to deliver a wide frequency response, ranging from 60 Hz to 20 kHz. The tweeter ensures clear highs, precision, and an open soundstage, while the woofer produces a robust and impactful low-end, making it suitable for various genres of music.

The UBS1 utilizes advanced amplifier technology, featuring built-in bi-amplification to power the low and high frequencies separately. The result is enhanced dynamic range and reduced distortion. With a total power output of 50 watts, the UB1 provides ample volume without sacrificing fidelity, ensuring that users can monitor their productions accurately during mixing and mastering phases.

In terms of connectivity, the Samson UB1 offers versatility with balanced XLR, 1/4-inch TRS, and RCA inputs, accommodating a variety of professional audio gear. This adaptability ensures that users can easily integrate the UB1 into their existing setups, whether it be in a studio or a home environment.

The monitor's rear-ported enclosure is designed to enhance bass response while reducing unwanted resonance. Additionally, the front-facing volume control offers easy access for quick adjustments, promoting a user-friendly experience.

Another notable aspect of the Samson UB1 is its compact size. The monitor's sleek profile is not only aesthetically pleasing but also makes it suitable for smaller studios or desktop setups, where space can be a constraint. The build quality reflects durability and reliability, important traits for any professional audio equipment.

Overall, the Samson UB1 blends advanced engineering with practical design, providing unmatched audio clarity and balance. Its combination of features and technologies positions it as a top choice for anyone serious about producing high-quality sound, regardless of their level of expertise.