Samson Education Blog

New Audio Solutions for the Hybrid Classroom

As we brace ourselves for the new normal under the impact of the Covid 19 pandemic, the highest priority is to keep both students and teachers safe while providing a productive learning environment. Most schools may employ a hybrid education system with a mix of lessons in the classroom (following social distancing guidelines) and online streaming.

Teachers and schools will need to embrace new technologies, leveraging video and other digital tools to ensure students don’t miss valuable learning time.

An easily overlooked aspect of digital communications is the audio. Intelligibility is the most critical component of keeping someone’s attention. If you can’t be heard clearly, then students will lose focus and thus lose interest. Using a high-quality microphone from Samson along with proper mic techniques will result in your voice sounding clearer, with less background noise and a more engaging experience for your students.

Discover the tools to improve the audio for both in-class and remote students during this unprecedented time.

The Hybrid Learning Environment

If your school is taking a hybrid approach with in-person physical classes and online remote lessons, teachers will need a system that allows each student to clearly hear the lesson from any location. Not only do teachers have the new challenge of teaching each lesson in two mediums simultaneously, they will also be wearing masks and face shields that will muffle their voice and inhibit intelligibility. Using a microphone positioned close to the mouth is the best way to combat this obstacle. And a wireless microphone will allow for easy movement around the classroom without being tethered to a desk or computer.

Samson XPD2 Headset USB Digital Wireless System The Samson XPD2 Headset wireless system includes a USB stick receiver that connects directly to a USB port on a Mac, PC or Chromebook. It can then be selected as the input audio source for your video streaming software. Using our proprietary wireless technology, the XPD2 system broadcasts the full audio range, so viewers will clearly hear the instructor’s natural voice. The system provides up to 100′ of operating range, more than enough for any classroom. The low profile DE5 headset microphone has an omnidirectional pickup pattern, which means that it picks up sound evenly from all around the capsule. This enables the wearer the ability to position the microphone off to the side of their mouth or over a mask and still provide outstanding audio reproduction. The beltpack transmitter can easily fit in a pocket or attach to a belt/waistband, and operates for up to 20 hours on two ‘AA’ batteries. More ways to connect The RXD2 USB stick receiver also connects directly to iOS and Android devices, or with any Samson Expedition Series Portable PA System that features a USB Wireless port. An added feature from the previous generation system, the 1/8″ (3.5mm) output allows for headphone monitoring or to be used with any device that has an analog line input, including cameras and other mobile devices.*
*To connect to an iOS device you will need to use Apple’s Lightning to USB Camera adapter. To connect to an Android device, you will need a host OTG adapter

Safer Classrooms For All

Now that we have discussed delivering high-quality sound to students streaming classes at home, let’s talk about how to improve the sound and create a safer learning environment within the classroom. Studies have shown that shouting, singing or talking loudly may produce substantially more respiratory particles from the mouth, and even travel distances of up to 6 feet. Adding a powered loudspeaker will allow you to amplify your voice without needing to talk louder–which will save more than your voice in the long run. 

Three considerations for selecting a speaker for the classroom:

  1. Does it have enough power to fill the room?
  2. Can it reproduce sound intelligibly?
  3. Is it easy to setup and move around?

Samson Expedition Series

Rechargeable Battery-Powered Speakers

The Samson Expedition series of rechargeable speakers is an excellent choice for classroom sound reinforcement. These all-in-one systems have a simple built-in mixer, include Bluetooth audio and are easy to transport around the school. Battery powered speakers are also recommended because you can find the optimal placement within the classroom without having to worry about if there’s a power outlet close by.

SystemPowerAudience Size Typical/Social DistancingBattery LiveOnboard MixerBluetoothHandle/ WheelsWeight(Kg)Additional
Expedition Escape+
50 watts25–50 / 10–20Up to 20 hours2-ChannelYesNo4.7n/a
Expedition Express+
75 watts50–100 / 20–40Up to 20 hours3-ChannelYesNo5.4Includes: Wired handheld mic
Expedition XP106
100 watts75–200 / 30–80Up to 20 hours4-ChannelYesNo7.3Includes: Wired handheld mic
Available with: XPD1 Handheld or XPD1 Beltpack Wireless Systems
Expedition XP208w
200 watts100–300 / 40–120Up to 20 hours4-ChannelYesYes10.8Includes: XPD2 Handheld Wirelss Mic
Making the ConnectionsTo create a system where students in the classroom and those streaming at home are able to hear the instructor:Connect an XPD2 or Go Mic Mobile receiver to the computer. Plug a cable into the 1/8” output of the receiver and connect the other end of the cable to an input in the Expedition speaker’s mixer on its rear panel.To add sound of students streaming back into the classroom (so that in-person students can hear what the students at home are saying), connect the audio/headphone output of the computer to a second input on the Expedition speaker.

When creating a system with a Samson wireless system and Expedition speaker, you will need to carry out the following audio settings in your video conference software:

  1. Set the Audio Input (or Source) / Microphone to the Samson wireless receiver. In this example we are using the Samson XPD2 wireless receiver 
  2. Set the Audio Output / Speakers to the analog audio output jack. In this example we are using the 1/8″ External Headphones jack.
Skype Audio Setup with XPD2

Remote Instruction

If your school is taking a completely online approach then you must find a way to upgrade your workspace to stream high-quality audio. Your earbuds with a mic just won’t cut it.  

We all understand that private work areas are not always possible, as everyone has a different living and family arrangements, but that doesn’t mean the quality of a streaming class or prerecorded lesson needs to suffer.  Once again, a good microphone with proper placement will provide exceptional results (and without a huge investment). The easiest way to add professional sound to a computer is with a USB microphone. There are many types and styles of USB microphones but they all share the basic concept of converting sound into a digital signal that your computer can use for recording or streaming via a USB cable. But not all USB microphones are created equal. 

Samson USB microphones have been designed to the same standards as traditional recording studio and broadcast microphones. This means from the mic capsule through the internal circuitry, every aspect is meticulously engineered to provide a superb audio experience. Samson offers a range of USB microphones that can help remote educators achieve desirable results. 

Samson Go Mic – Portable USB Microphone With its compact, fold-up design and integrated clip, the Samson Go Mic can mount right onto your laptop or sit right on your desk. Plug and play operation means it’s completely compatible with a Mac, PC and Chromebooks with no drivers required. Instantly improve the quality of your audio when streaming classes, recording lessons or having one-on-one chats with students. Go Mic includes two microphone pickup patterns, cardioid and omnidirectional. The cardioid pattern captures sound in front of the microphone and rejects sound from the sides and back. The omni pattern will evenly pick up sound 360° around the microphone. This can be used if you like to move around while teaching. A -10 dB pad provides additional headroom for those who tend to project their voice a little more and protects the audio from overloading.
Samson Q2U – USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone The Samson Q2U is a great choice for working in environments where you don’t have complete control over background or ambient noises. It features a dynamic microphone capsule with a cardioid pickup pattern. These two attributes together focus on the sound that is directly in front of the microphone, typically within 6–12″ away from the capsule, while rejecting sounds to the sides and behind the mic. Q2U combines the convenience of digital and analog audio capture into one microphone. With XLR and USB outputs, the microphone can connect directly to a computer or be part of a larger recording workstation. The Q2U can also pull double duty as a live microphone and will work with any PA system or mixer that has an XLR microphone input. It comes with a mic clip, desktop tripod stand, windscreen, XLR cable and USB cable—everything you need to start working, right out of the box.
G-Track Pro – Professional USB Microphone with Audio Interface The Samson G-Track Pro is a professional, studio quality, multi-pattern USB microphone. It also includes a 1/4″ input that can be used to connect any line-level or instrument sound source. This is great for adding media that is stored on an external device like a smartphone or tablet, simply connect the headphone output of the device to the input on the G-Track Pro. A front panel mixer makes for quick and easy access to all the level controls and a signal overload indicator allows you to ensure you are delivering the best quality audio. A great solution for remote music classes, instructors can plug a guitar or bass into the G-Track Pro and stream a mix of the instrument as well as the instruction over the microphone at the same time.
Satellite – USB/iOS Broadcast Microphone For instructors who use their smartphones and tablets to create content, the Samson Satellite is the perfect solution. It is a multi-pattern USB/iOS microphone that can connect directly to iPhones, iPads, Android devices, Mac and Windows computers, as well as Chromebooks. The fold-back leg design means the microphone can be quickly setup anywhere without the need for additional stands or adapters. A handy direct monitor switch allows you to switch between hearing your voice directly from the mic capsule or it can be switched off to listen only to the audio coming from your device. There’s even threading for mounting to a boom arm or mic stand on the bottom on the unit.

New Audio Solutions for the Hybrid Classroom

As we brace ourselves for the new normal under the impact of the Covid 19 pandemic, the highest priority is to keep both students and teachers safe while providing a productive learning environment. Most schools may employ a hybrid education system with a mix of lessons in the classroom (following social distancing guidelines) and online streaming.

Teachers and schools will need to embrace new technologies, leveraging video and other digital tools to ensure students don’t miss valuable learning time.

An easily overlooked aspect of digital communications is the audio. Intelligibility is the most critical component of keeping someone’s attention. If you can’t be heard clearly, then students will lose focus and thus lose interest. Using a high-quality microphone from Samson along with proper mic techniques will result in your voice sounding clearer, with less background noise and a more engaging experience for your students.

Discover the tools to improve the audio for both in-class and remote students during this unprecedented time.

The Hybrid Learning Environment

If your school is taking a hybrid approach with in-person physical classes and online remote lessons, teachers will need a system that allows each student to clearly hear the lesson from any location. Not only do teachers have the new challenge of teaching each lesson in two mediums simultaneously, they will also be wearing masks and face shields that will muffle their voice and inhibit intelligibility. Using a microphone positioned close to the mouth is the best way to combat this obstacle. And a wireless microphone will allow for easy movement around the classroom without being tethered to a desk or computer.

Samson XPD2 Headset

USB Digital Wireless System

The Samson XPD2 Headset wireless system includes a USB stick receiver that connects directly to a USB port on a Mac, PC or Chromebook. It can then be selected as the input audio source for your video streaming software.

Using our proprietary wireless technology, the XPD2 system broadcasts the full audio range, so viewers will clearly hear the instructor’s natural voice. The system provides up to 100′ of operating range, more than enough for any classroom.

The low profile DE5 headset microphone has an omnidirectional pickup pattern, which means that it picks up sound evenly from all around the capsule. This enables the wearer the ability to position the microphone off to the side of their mouth or over a mask and still provide outstanding audio reproduction.

The beltpack transmitter can easily fit in a pocket or attach to a belt/waistband, and operates for up to 20 hours on two ‘AA’ batteries.

More ways to connect

The RXD2 USB stick receiver also connects directly to iOS and Android devices, or with any Samson Expedition Series Portable PA System that features a USB Wireless port. An added feature from the previous generation system, the 1/8″ (3.5mm) output allows for headphone monitoring or to be used with any device that has an analog line input, including cameras and other mobile devices.*

*To connect to an iOS device you will need to use Apple’s Lightning to USB Camera adapter. To connect to an Android device, you will need a host OTG adapter

Safer Classrooms For All

Now that we have discussed delivering high-quality sound to students streaming classes at home, let’s talk about how to improve the sound and create a safer learning environment within the classroom. Studies have shown that shouting, singing or talking loudly may produce substantially more respiratory particles from the mouth, and even travel distances of up to 6 feet. Adding a powered loudspeaker will allow you to amplify your voice without needing to talk louder–which will save more than your voice in the long run. 

Three considerations for selecting a speaker for the classroom:

  1. Does it have enough power to fill the room?
  2. Can it reproduce sound intelligibly?
  3. Is it easy to setup and move around?

Samson Expedition Series

Rechargeable Battery-Powered Speakers

The Samson Expedition series of rechargeable speakers is an excellent choice for classroom sound reinforcement. These all-in-one systems have a simple built-in mixer, include Bluetooth audio and are easy to transport around the school. Battery powered speakers are also recommended because you can find the optimal placement within the classroom without having to worry about if there’s a power outlet close by.

System
Power
Audience Size Typical/Social Distancing
Battery Live
Onboard Mixer
Bluetooth
Handle/ Wheels
Weight(Kg)
Additional
Expedition Escape+
50 watts 25–50 / 10–20 Up to 20 hours 2-Channel Yes No 4.7 n/a
Expedition Express+
75 watts 50–100 / 20–40 Up to 20 hours 3-Channel Yes No 5.4 Includes: Wired handheld mic
Expedition XP106
100 watts 75–200 / 30–80 Up to 20 hours 4-Channel Yes No 7.3 Includes: Wired handheld mic
Available with: XPD1 Handheld or XPD1 Beltpack Wireless Systems
Expedition XP208w
200 watts 100–300 / 40–120 Up to 20 hours 4-Channel Yes Yes 10.8 Includes: XPD2 Handheld Wirelss Mic

Making the Connections

To create a system where students in the classroom and those streaming at home are able to hear the instructor:

Connect an XPD2 or Go Mic Mobile receiver to the computer. Plug a cable into the 1/8” output of the receiver and connect the other end of the cable to an input in the Expedition speaker’s mixer on its rear panel.

To add sound of students streaming back into the classroom (so that in-person students can hear what the students at home are saying), connect the audio/headphone output of the computer to a second input on the Expedition speaker.

When creating a system with a Samson wireless system and Expedition speaker, you will need to carry out the following audio settings in your video conference software:

  1. Set the Audio Input (or Source) / Microphone to the Samson wireless receiver. In this example we are using the Samson XPD2 wireless receiver 
  2. Set the Audio Output / Speakers to the analog audio output jack. In this example we are using the 1/8″ External Headphones jack.

Skype Audio Setup with XPD2

Remote Instruction

If your school is taking a completely online approach then you must find a way to upgrade your workspace to stream high-quality audio. Your earbuds with a mic just won’t cut it.  

We all understand that private work areas are not always possible, as everyone has a different living and family arrangements, but that doesn’t mean the quality of a streaming class or prerecorded lesson needs to suffer.  Once again, a good microphone with proper placement will provide exceptional results (and without a huge investment). The easiest way to add professional sound to a computer is with a USB microphone. There are many types and styles of USB microphones but they all share the basic concept of converting sound into a digital signal that your computer can use for recording or streaming via a USB cable. But not all USB microphones are created equal. 

Samson USB microphones have been designed to the same standards as traditional recording studio and broadcast microphones. This means from the mic capsule through the internal circuitry, every aspect is meticulously engineered to provide a superb audio experience. Samson offers a range of USB microphones that can help remote educators achieve desirable results. 

Samson Go Mic – Portable USB Microphone

With its compact, fold-up design and integrated clip, the Samson Go Mic can mount right onto your laptop or sit right on your desk. Plug and play operation means it’s completely compatible with a Mac, PC and Chromebooks with no drivers required. Instantly improve the quality of your audio when streaming classes, recording lessons or having one-on-one chats with students. 

Go Mic includes two microphone pickup patterns, cardioid and omnidirectional. The cardioid pattern captures sound in front of the microphone and rejects sound from the sides and back. The omni pattern will evenly pick up sound 360° around the microphone. This can be used if you like to move around while teaching. A -10 dB pad provides additional headroom for those who tend to project their voice a little more and protects the audio from overloading.

Go Mic

Samson Q2U – USB/XLR Dynamic Microphone

The Samson Q2U is a great choice for working in environments where you don’t have complete control over background or ambient noises. It features a dynamic microphone capsule with a cardioid pickup pattern. These two attributes together focus on the sound that is directly in front of the microphone, typically within 6–12″ away from the capsule, while rejecting sounds to the sides and behind the mic. 

Q2U combines the convenience of digital and analog audio capture into one microphone. With XLR and USB outputs, the microphone can connect directly to a computer or be part of a larger recording workstation. The Q2U can also pull double duty as a live microphone and will work with any PA system or mixer that has an XLR microphone input. It comes with a mic clip, desktop tripod stand, windscreen, XLR cable and USB cable—everything you need to start working, right out of the box.

Q2U

G-Track Pro – Professional USB Microphone with Audio Interface

The Samson G-Track Pro is a professional, studio quality, multi-pattern USB microphone. It also includes a 1/4″ input that can be used to connect any line-level or instrument sound source. This is great for adding media that is stored on an external device like a smartphone or tablet, simply connect the headphone output of the device to the input on the G-Track Pro. A front panel mixer makes for quick and easy access to all the level controls and a signal overload indicator allows you to ensure you are delivering the best quality audio. A great solution for remote music classes, instructors can plug a guitar or bass into the G-Track Pro and stream a mix of the instrument as well as the instruction over the microphone at the same time.

G-Track Pro

Satellite – USB/iOS Broadcast Microphone

For instructors who use their smartphones and tablets to create content, the Samson Satellite is the perfect solution. It is a multi-pattern USB/iOS microphone that can connect directly to iPhones, iPads, Android devices, Mac and Windows computers, as well as Chromebooks. The fold-back leg design means the microphone can be quickly setup anywhere without the need for additional stands or adapters. A handy direct monitor switch allows you to switch between hearing your voice directly from the mic capsule or it can be switched off to listen only to the audio coming from your device. There’s even threading for mounting to a boom arm or mic stand on the bottom on the unit.