Samson Q8X Dynamic Supercardioid Handheld Microphone
Handheld dynamic microphone with supercardioid pickup and 150 dB max SPL for loud vocals
- ColorClear
- ConnectorXLR
- Microphone Sensitivity150 decibels
- Microphone Signal to Noise Ratio(SNR)72 decibels
- FeaturesClip
- Supercardioid pattern rejects off-axis sound for clearer vocals
- Neodymium dynamic element handles 150 dB SPL without distortion
- Gold-plated XLR connector ensures reliable balanced signal transfer
- Die-cast body with hardened steel grille withstands stage use
- Includes mic clip and zipper pouch for immediate setup
Samson Q8X Dynamic Supercardioid Handheld Microphone
The Samson Q8X is a dynamic supercardioid handheld microphone built for vocal capture in live sound and studio recording. Its neodymium element and high-saturation transformer deliver a frequency response of 50Hz to 16kHz with a maximum SPL of 150dB. The 3-pin gold-plated XLR connector ensures a balanced signal path for mixers and audio interfaces. A hardened steel grille protects the capsule during regular stage use.
Installation and common issues
Connect the microphone to a preamp or interface using a standard XLR cable and position the supercardioid capsule toward the sound source. The polar pattern rejects off-axis noise but requires consistent on-axis technique to avoid tonal shifts. Handle the die-cast body carefully to prevent mechanical noise transferring through the stand mount. The included clip secures the 180mm length microphone to most stands.
Pre-purchase checks
Verify your mixer or interface provides a balanced XLR input with sufficient gain for the -54dBV/Pa sensitivity and 300 ohm impedance. Confirm phantom power is not required, as this is a passive dynamic design. Ensure your stand or boom arm accommodates the 54mm diameter and 0.44kg weight. The package includes a zipper pouch for transport and storage.
Highlights
- Supercardioid pattern rejects off-axis sound for clearer vocals
- Neodymium dynamic element handles 150 dB SPL without distortion
- Gold-plated XLR connector ensures reliable balanced signal transfer
- Die-cast body with hardened steel grille withstands stage use
- Includes mic clip and zipper pouch for immediate setup
Specifications
| Brand | SAMSON |
|---|---|
| Model | SAQ8X |
| Part Number | SAQ8X |
| Color | Clear |
| Connector | XLR |
| Microphone Sensitivity | 150 decibels |
| Microphone Signal to Noise Ratio(SNR) | 72 decibels |
| Features | Clip |
Questions about this item
How can I confirm the Q8X is capturing audio correctly after connecting it to my mixer?
With the supercardioid pattern engaged, speak directly into the grille and check that your preamp shows a clean signal around -54 dBV/Pa sensitivity without handling noise, confirming the neodymium dynamic element is working as intended.
What accessories are included with the SAQ8X and what must I provide separately?
The box contains the Q8X microphone, a microphone clip, and a zipper carry pouch; you will need to supply your own 3-pin XLR cable and a mixer or interface with phantom power disabled for this dynamic mic.
Which version of the Q8X should I choose for live vocals versus spoken-word streaming?
Only the SAQ8X model exists — its 50 Hz–16 kHz response, 150 dB max SPL, and supercardioid pickup suit both loud stage vocals and close-miked streaming without a second variant to select.
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