Unveiling The Samson S-com 4: Exploring Specifications, Manuals, Pros And Cons, And Common Problems

Samson S-COM 4 Information

the information about the Samson S-COM 4:

Introduction

The Samson S-COM 4 is a four-channel compressor/limiter/expander/gate that provides high-quality dynamics processing for a variety of audio applications. It features individual controls for each channel, including threshold, ratio, attack, release, and output level. The S-COM 4 also includes a switchable enhancer that can restore high frequencies that are sometimes diminished by compression.

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Specifications

• Number of channels: 4
• Inputs: 4 x XLR-1/4" combo jacks
• Outputs: 4 x XLR-1/4" combo jacks
• Connectors: 12V DC power input
• Power consumption: 12W
• Dimensions: 19" x 4.33" x 1.5" (W x H x D)
• Weight: 2.2 lbs.

Features

• Individual controls for each channel: threshold, ratio, attack, release, and output level
• Switchable enhancer
• 5-segment LED meters for input/output level and gain reduction
• Servo-balanced XLR and 1/4" inputs and outputs
• Smart Knee Detector (SKD) automatically switches from soft to hard knee based on input signal level
• Linkable in 2 stereo pairs
• Rugged metal construction

What's in the box

• Samson S-COM 4 compressor/limiter/expander/gate
• Power supply
• User manual

Applications

The Samson S-COM 4 can be used in a variety of audio applications, including:

• Mixing and mastering
• Live sound reinforcement
• Recording
• Post-production
• Broadcast
• Video production
• Musical instrument processing

The S-COM 4's four channels of independent processing make it ideal for mixing and mastering applications. The compressor/limiter section can be used to control dynamics and even out the overall level of a mix, while the expander/gate section can be used to remove unwanted noise. The enhancer switch can be used to add clarity and presence to a mix.

The S-COM 4 is also a great choice for live sound reinforcement. The individual channel controls allow you to tailor the sound of each instrument or microphone to the specific needs of your mix. The compressor/limiter section can be used to prevent feedback and keep levels under control, while the expander/gate section can be used to eliminate unwanted noise from the stage.

The S-COM 4 is a versatile and powerful dynamics processor that can be used in a variety of audio applications. Its four channels of independent processing, wide range of features, and rugged construction make it a valuable tool for any audio professional.

Samson S-COM 4 Compare with Similar Item

a table comparison of the Samson S-COM 4 with some similar items:

Feature	Samson S-COM 4	Behringer Ultragain Pro MDX400	ART ProVLA II
Number of channels	4	4	2
Compressor	Yes	Yes	Yes
Gate	Yes	Yes	Yes
Enhancer	Yes	No	No
Ratio	1:1 to 10:1	1:1 to 20:1	1:1 to 20:1
Attack	10ms to 1000ms	10ms to 1000ms	10ms to 1000ms
Release	10ms to 1000ms	10ms to 1000ms	10ms to 1000ms
Metering	5-segment LED	3-segment LED	5-segment LED
Power supply	9V DC	9V DC	12V DC
Price	$129	$99	$199

The Samson S-COM 4 is a 4-channel compressor/gate with an enhancer. It has a wide range of controls, including variable ratio, attack, and release times. It also has a 5-segment LED meter for each channel. The S-COM 4 is powered by a 9V DC power supply.

The Behringer Ultragain Pro MDX400 is another 4-channel compressor/gate. It has a narrower range of controls than the S-COM 4, but it is also less expensive. The MDX400 has a 3-segment LED meter for each channel. It is powered by a 9V DC power supply.

The ART ProVLA II is a 2-channel compressor/limiter. It has a wider range of controls than the S-COM 4 and the MDX400, and it also has a de-esser. The ProVLA II has a 5-segment LED meter for each channel. It is powered by a 12V DC power supply.

Overall, the Samson S-COM 4 is a good option for a 4-channel compressor/gate with a wide range of controls. It is a bit more expensive than the Behringer Ultragain Pro MDX400, but it has more features. If you are looking for a 2-channel compressor/limiter with a wider range of controls and a de-esser, the ART ProVLA II is a good option.

Here is a summary of the pros and cons of each unit:

Unit	Pros	Cons
Samson S-COM 4	Wide range of controls, 5-segment LED meter for each channel	More expensive than the Behringer Ultragain Pro MDX400
Behringer Ultragain Pro MDX400	Less expensive than the Samson S-COM 4, 3-segment LED meter for each channel	Narrower range of controls than the Samson S-COM 4
ART ProVLA II	Wide range of controls, 5-segment LED meter for each channel, de-esser	More expensive than the Samson S-COM 4 and the Behringer Ultragain Pro MDX400

Samson S-COM 4 Pros/Cons and My Thought

The Samson S-COM 4 is a 4-channel compressor/gate unit that is designed for live sound reinforcement and recording applications. It features individual threshold, ratio, and output gain controls for each channel, as well as a stereo link switch that allows you to control both channels of a stereo pair simultaneously. The S-COM 4 also includes an expander/gate section with threshold, ratio, and attack/release controls.

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Compact and lightweight design
• Easy to use controls
• Individual channel controls
• Stereo link switch
• Expander/gate section
• Good build quality

Cons:

• Limited features compared to more expensive compressors
• No sidechain input
• Some users have reported noise issues

User reviews:

• Positive reviews:
  • "This compressor is great for the price. It's easy to use and sounds good. I use it for live sound reinforcement and it's perfect for taming vocals and instruments." - Amazon reviewer
  • "I've been using this compressor for a few years now and I'm very happy with it. It's built like a tank and it sounds great. I use it for both live sound and recording and it always does the job." - Sweetwater reviewer
  • "This is a great little compressor for the money. It's perfect for small bands or home studios. It's easy to use and sounds good. I would definitely recommend it." - Gearspace forum user
• Negative reviews:
  • "I found this compressor to be a bit noisy. I could hear some hissing in the background when I used it. I ended up returning it and getting a different one." - Amazon reviewer
  • "I was disappointed with the lack of features on this compressor. It doesn't have a sidechain input and the controls are a bit basic. I would have expected more for the price." - Sweetwater reviewer
  • "I had some problems with the gate section on this compressor. It would sometimes open and close too quickly, which caused a pumping sound. I ended up disabling the gate altogether." - Gearspace forum user

My thoughts:

Overall, the Samson S-COM 4 is a good budget-friendly compressor/gate unit. It's easy to use and sounds good, especially for the price. However, it does have some limitations, such as the lack of sidechain input and the basic controls. If you're looking for a more versatile compressor with more features, you may want to consider a more expensive model. However, if you're on a budget and need a basic compressor/gate unit, the S-COM 4 is a good option.

Here are some additional thoughts on the Samson S-COM 4:

• The compressor section is fairly basic, but it does the job well. The controls are easy to understand and the sound is clean and transparent.
• The gate section is a bit more limited. The threshold and ratio controls are fairly sensitive, so it can be easy to over-compress or over-gate your signal.
• The S-COM 4 is built well and should last for many years. However, it is not as rugged as some of the more expensive compressors on the market.
• Overall, the Samson S-COM 4 is a good value for the money. It's a great option for small bands or home studios that need a basic compressor/gate unit.

Samson S-COM 4 Where To Buy

You can buy the Samson S-COM 4 and spare parts from the following retailers:

• Samson Direct: This is the official website of Samson Technologies. You can buy the Samson S-COM 4 and spare parts directly from them. They have a wide selection of spare parts available, including microphones, cables, and power adapters.
• Walmart: Walmart is a large retailer that sells a variety of electronics, including the Samson S-COM 4. They usually have a good selection of spare parts available as well.
• Amazon: Amazon is another large retailer that sells the Samson S-COM 4. They have a wide selection of spare parts available, and their prices are often competitive.
• Best Buy: Best Buy is a electronics retailer that sells the Samson S-COM 4. They usually have a good selection of spare parts available.
• Lowes: Lowe's is a home improvement retailer that sells the Samson S-COM 4. They may have a limited selection of spare parts available.
• eBay: eBay is an online auction site where you can find a variety of Samson S-COM 4s and spare parts. You may be able to find a good deal on a used or refurbished unit on eBay.

You can also try searching for local electronics retailers in your area to see if they carry the Samson S-COM 4 or spare parts.

Samson S-COM 4 Problems and Solutions

Here are some common issues and problems with the Samson S-COM 4 compressor/gate, along with solutions provided by experts:

• The gate makes a clicking noise when it engages. This is a known issue with the S-COM 4, and there is no way to completely eliminate it. However, you can reduce the clicking noise by setting the gate's threshold to a higher level. This will prevent the gate from engaging as frequently, which will reduce the number of times the clicking noise occurs.
• The compressor sounds harsh or distorted. This can happen if you set the compressor's ratio too high. A high ratio will cause the compressor to reduce the signal level more aggressively, which can lead to harshness or distortion. To avoid this, set the compressor's ratio to a lower level.
• The compressor doesn't seem to be doing anything. This can happen if you set the compressor's threshold too high. The threshold is the level at which the compressor starts to reduce the signal level. If you set the threshold too high, the compressor will never engage, and you won't hear any effect. To fix this, set the compressor's threshold to a lower level.
• The compressor is introducing noise into the signal. This can happen if you set the compressor's input gain too high. The input gain controls the level of the signal that is fed into the compressor. If you set the input gain too high, the compressor will amplify any noise that is present in the signal, which can lead to audible noise. To avoid this, set the compressor's input gain to a lower level.

In addition to these common issues, there are a few other potential problems that can occur with the Samson S-COM 4. If you are experiencing any problems with your unit, it is always best to consult the user manual or contact Samson support for assistance.

Here are some additional tips for troubleshooting problems with the Samson S-COM 4:

• Make sure that you are using the compressor correctly. The compressor has a number of different controls, and each one has a specific effect on the sound of the signal. If you are not familiar with how the compressor works, it is helpful to read the user manual or watch a tutorial online.
• Try different settings on the compressor. The compressor's controls can be adjusted to achieve a variety of different effects. Experiment with different settings to see what sounds best for your particular application.
• Use a different compressor. If you are still experiencing problems with the Samson S-COM 4, you may want to try using a different compressor. There are many different compressors available on the market, and some may be better suited for your needs than the Samson S-COM 4.

Samson S-COM 4 Manual

Samson S-COM 4 Manual

Safety Information

• Read all safety and operating instructions before using this product.
• Keep this manual for future reference.
• Do not use this product near water or other liquids.
• Do not expose this product to extreme heat or cold.
• Do not use this product with damaged or frayed power cords.
• Do not attempt to repair this product yourself. Contact Samson Technical Support for assistance.

Before Use

• Make sure that the power cord is properly plugged into an outlet.
• Connect the input and output cables to the appropriate jacks on the rear panel of the S-COM 4.
• Turn on the power switch on the front panel of the S-COM 4.
• Adjust the input gain controls for each channel to achieve the desired level.
• Use the compression, gate, and expander controls to achieve the desired sound.
• Use the make-up gain control to adjust the overall output level.

Troubleshooting

• If the S-COM 4 is not working properly, check the following:
  • Is the power cord properly plugged in?
  • Are the input and output cables properly connected?
  • Have you adjusted the input gain controls to the desired level?
  • Have you adjusted the compression, gate, and expander controls to the desired settings?
• If you have checked all of these things and the S-COM 4 is still not working properly, contact Samson Technical Support for assistance.

Maintenance

• To clean the S-COM 4, use a soft, dry cloth.
• Do not use any harsh chemicals or cleaners.
• Do not use compressed air to clean the S-COM 4.

Warranty

The S-COM 4 is covered by a one-year warranty. For more information, please visit the Samson website.

Contact Information

Samson Technologies 1 Samson Way Waterbury, CT 06705 USA

Phone: 1-800-336-0722 Email: [email protected] Website: www.samsontech.com

Additional Information

• The S-COM 4 can be used with a variety of audio sources, including microphones, instruments, and mixers.
• The S-COM 4 can be used to improve the sound of a variety of audio applications, including live sound, studio recording, and post-production.
• The S-COM 4 is a powerful tool for controlling the dynamics of audio signals.
• The S-COM 4 is easy to use and can be configured to meet the needs of a variety of users.

I hope this manual has been helpful. If you have any further questions, please contact Samson Technical Support.