The Samson Q2U microphone is a dynamic microphone. Phantom Power is a positive voltage ranging from 12 volts to 48 volts of DC power through pins 2 and 3 within an XLR cable. Phantom Power is used for condenser microphones because they need an external power source due to their having active electronics included. Dynamic microphones do not need Phantom Power because they have passive electronics. Therefore, the Samson S2U microphone does not need Phantom Power.
Related: Condenser Mic That Doesn’t Require Phantom Power
Contents
Does Samson Q9U need phantom power?
Similar to the Samson Q2U, the Samson Q9U is a dynamic microphone with passive electronics and does not require Phantom Power to operate.
Is Samson Q2U good for vocals?
The Samson Q2U and Samson Q9U are both dynamic microphones that do not require phantom power. Image Source
Great for recording podcasts, the Samson Q2U is a popular microphone that podcasting veterans and newbies regularly turn to. The dynamic cardioid microphone picks up vocals from the front of the microphone and rejects sounds that come from the rear. This helps it to handle noise very well. The Samson Q2U also comes with the ability to plug the microphone into a computer via its USB cable or a recorder or mixer with its XLR cable. This helps for podcasters who take their shows on the road and need more flexibility in setting up a recording environment. That’s why it’s great for newbies and veterans, as it remains a great option for folks who want to use it as a plug and play option via USB or want to improve sound quality through a mixer.
The microphone comes with a boom arm and microphone table stand, both XLR and USB cables, and a set of stereo headphones. Additionally, it comes with both a pop filter and a foam windshield, which help to filter out plosive “p” sounds and other unwanted noises. The microphone is a relatively inexpensive option – coming in around $70 – that will help you record a variety of sounds.
Related: Samson Q2U Vs. Shure SM58
What happens if you use phantom power on a dynamic mic?
Though dynamic microphones do not require phantom power, if you plug an XLR cable with phantom power into them, the microphones will not be damaged. Phantom Power is used to activate the electronic circuits of a condenser microphone with active circuitry. This power enables the diaphragm of the microphone to move and thus powers the microphone. .Because dynamic microphones are passive, they do not require this additional power.
Related: How to Use the Behringer Xenyx 1204USB Phantom Power
Conclusion
Phantom Power is a term in the recording industry to describe the type of power needed through an XLR cable to supply electricity to condenser microphones. These microphones require this power through their active electric circuitry. Because passive microphones do not have active electric circuity, they do not require phantom power. So, microphones like the Samson Q2U and Q9U – dynamic mics – do not require this power. Additionally, the Samson Q2U is a great dynamic microphone for podcasters who want flexibility in their recording environments.
