CL8a – Large Diaphragm Multi-Pattern Studio Condenser Microphone

The Samson CL8a is a large-diaphragm, multi-pattern condenser microphone that delivers balanced, detailed sound from its custom tuned condenser capsule, rock-solid construction, and exceptional electronics; it is sure to become the “go-to” mic in your home, project, or professional studio. The CL8a is perfect for capturing an expressive solo vocalist, or for preserving the tonality and presence of instruments such as acoustic guitar, flute, or even upright bass. And to expand your miking options and recording techniques, the CL8a features three pickup patterns.

The CL8a is a large diaphragm condenser mic designed for the studio environment. Inside the CL8a capsule is a dual 1.1″ gold-sputtered, 4-micron thick diaphragm that delivers a beautifully lush, balanced sound. The dual-capsule design unlocks a range of selectable pickup patterns, delivering superior results in nearly every studio situation. The omnidirectional 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. The cardioid pattern rejects sound 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 guitar, flute, or even upright bass. The Figure 8 offers excellent response both in front of and behind the microphone, with enhanced side-signal rejection. This is an excellent choice for recording multiple performers, especially in smaller groups and pairs. Placing the mic sideways directly over a snare, picks up the kit ambience while minimizing the snare in the side-field.

A selectable two-pole high-pass filter at 100 Hz removes any unwanted low frequency content like stage rumble or wind noise. The robust capsule and electronics are able to withstand tremendous sound pressure levels of up to 147dB allowing you to capture powerful low frequency content without distortion. The CL8a includes a 10dB attenuation pad, which is used to prevent overloading the onboard preamplifier by lowering the input sensitivity of the microphone preamplifier circuit. This is useful when close miking loud sound sources with very high transient sounds, such as drums, cymbals or brass instruments.

Inside the durable die-cast body, an internal shock-mount provides both protection for capsule, and isolation from vibration noise.The CL8a is a condenser microphone and therefore needs to be operated by connecting a phantom power supply. The CL8a can accommodate phantom power levels from 36 to 52 Volts.

• Dual 1.1″ internally shock-mounted capsule with 4-micron thin gold-sputtered diaphragms
• Selectable cardioid, bidirectional and omnidirectional pickup patterns
• 20 Hz to 20k Hz frequency response
• Switchable high-pass filter, 12 dB per octave at 100 Hz
• Switchable 10 dB pad for handling extremely high SPL
• 36–52 Volt phantom power operation
• Solid die cast construction