The Samson CL8a is a large-diaphragm condenser microphone well suited for home, project, and pro-level studios alike. This mic offers selectable polar patterns, so you can choose among omnidirectional, cardioid, and figure-8 configurations.

The design provides dual gold-sputtered capsules, each measuring 1.1" in diameter and 4 microns in thickness. This gives you a balanced, yet lush sound. With a wide frequency response measuring 20 Hz to 20 kHz, the CL8a can help you capture a panoply of instruments and vocals, and thanks to the high 147 dB SPL, you can record loud instruments as well.

The CL8a provides a 10 dB pad for better miking drums without distortion. A 12 dB/octave high-pass filter can be switched on at 100 Hz to reduce rumble and wind noise. The mic requires phantom power to operate and can accept between 36 and 52V. The capsule offers an internal shockmount for both protection and isolation from any noise caused by vibrations.

Multiple Polar Patterns

Omnidirectional: This pattern picks up sound equally well in all directions. There is no off-axis coloration, which makes it perfect for capturing ensemble players or vocalists using a single mic.

Cardioid: This pattern minimizes pickup from the rear and side flanks of the microphone, while providing excellent coverage directly in front of the microphone. The cardioid pattern is great for capturing an expressive solo vocalist and for preserving the presence of instruments such as acoustic guitars, flutes, or even upright basses.

Figure 8: This pattern offers excellent response, both in front of and behind the microphone, with enhanced rejection on the sides. This is an excellent choice for recording multiple performers, especially in smaller groups and pairs. This setting can also work for two-way interviews, where editing is not necessary.

Specifications:

• Form Factor: Stand/Boom Mount
  
• Sound Field: Mono
  
• Capsule: 2 x Condenser
  
• Diaphragm: 1.1" / 27.94 mm (Condenser)
  
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid, Figure-8, Omnidirectional
  
• Pattern Selection: Switched (Adjustable on Mic)
  
• Orientation: Side Address
  
• Circuitry: Solid-State
  
• Pad: -10 dB
  
• High-Pass Filter: 100 Hz, 12 dB/Octave
  
• On-Board Controls: Polar Pattern, High-Pass Filter, Pad
  
• Frequency Range Condenser: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
  
• Maximum SPL: 147 dB SPL
  
• Output Connectors (Analog): 1 x XLR 3-Pin Male (on Mic)
  
• Operating Voltage: 36 to 52 V (Phantom Power)
  
• Mounting: Shockmount (via Integrated Hardware)
  
• Package Weight: 1.52 lb
  
• Box Dimensions (LxWxH): 10 x 4.2 x 2.7"