New additions to the UA Standard Microphone family

Published 15 May 2024

Introducing the New Universal Audio SD-3, SD-5, and SD-7 Dynamic Microphones!

Universal Audio is thrilled to unveil three new dynamic microphones to its esteemed microphone lineup: SD-3, SD-5, and SD-7. These latest additions build upon the renowned Universal Audio standard series, joining the ranks of the SD-1 Dynamic microphone, SC-1 Condenser microphone, and SP-1 Pencil condenser microphones.

Universal Audio SD-3 Dynamic Microphone

Compact yet powerful, the Universal Audio SD-3 Microphone is designed for precision drum and instrument recording. Featuring advanced Hemisphere mic modeling technology, exceptional SPL tolerance, and accessories, the SD-3 effortlessly captures the nuances of snare and tom drums, vibrant guitar cabs, brass instruments, and more. Boasting a cardioid polar pattern and high SPL handling, coupled with Universal Audio's Hemisphere mic modeling software, the SD-3 ensures professional-grade sound reproduction in any setting. Whether in your bedroom studio, project space, professional studio, or live on stage, the SD-3 delivers iconic sound with its ultra-high SPL tolerance and outstanding isolation, allowing you to achieve perfect presence. Additionally, its compact size enables precise mic placement even in tight spaces. The SD-3 Microphone is also available in a convenient 3-pack – Universal Audio SD-3X3.

Included with this microphone is the Hemisphere software, offering five microphone models: DN-57, DN-545, DN-604, DN-409U, and DN-4.

DN-57
Introduced in 1965, the ubiquitous “57” is very likely the best selling microphone of all time. It can be a particularly good option when blended with other mics, such as ribbons and large diaphragm condensers, to achieve a more balanced sound. The DN-57 is based on a recent production model.

DN-545
A predecessor to the mighty 57, this model employed the Unidyne III capsule. It was used extensively on The Beach Boys Pet Sounds, including Brian Wilson's lead vocal, and countless other recordings of that era.**

DN-604
The DN-604 model is based on a current production European-made 604, which has become a standard on stages and studios around the world. This compact clip-on mic has a variety of uses, most notably snare and tom drums.

DN-409U
The 409 shines on many sources, but is particularly well-suited to electric guitar amps. It has a smooth top, and its low-end response below 100 Hz can help instruments and vocals sit nicely in the mix.

DN-4
The DN-4 is based on a modern compact instrument mic that works great on toms, but is equally at home on guitar cabinets and snare drums. Universal Audio included a three-position filter to allow you to further sculpt the sound.

Universal Audio SD-5 Dynamic Microphone

The Universal Audio SD-5 Microphone stands as a supercardioid dynamic microphone tailored for kick drums and bass amps. Equipped with Hemisphere mic modeling technology, exceptional SPL tolerance, and essential accessories, the SD-5 effortlessly captures the punch and depth of kick drums, bass amps, and other low-end instruments. With its supercardioid polar pattern and high SPL handling, coupled with best-in-class Hemisphere mic modeling, the SD-5 ensures professional sound quality regardless of your recording environment. Fine-tuned for both stage and studio use, its ultra-high SPL capability and exceptional isolation allow for capturing every nuance of low-end drums without unwanted bleed from other sources.

The Hemisphere software accompanying the SD-5 includes five microphone models: DN-12A, DN-112, DN-6, DN-52, and DN-SUB.

DN-12A
Based on a popular dynamic microphone dating back to the 1950’s —a this model is favored by producer/engineer John Leckie (Radiohead, Paul McCartney, Pink Floyd), who often uses a 12 model alongside a 421 on kick drums.

DN-112
This Austrian-made kick drum microphone is now considered an industry standard. Used on countless Hip-Hop and Rock records, it has extended low frequency capture with clear top end presence for beater attack.

DN-6
The DN-6 model is based on an American kick drum mic that has become a go-to for studio recording. With its deep bass and heavily contoured sound, it works especially well for tight, syncopated metal genres.

DN-52
The DN-52 model is based on a current production version of the American 52-style kick drum microphone. This model provides extended low frequency capture, and an overall balanced sound useful on nearly any kick drum or bass instrument.

DN-SUB
The DN-SUB model is based on a studio trick which uses a full-range speaker driver wired-in-reverse for extended sub frequency capture. Many engineers will blend this sound along with a traditional mic for adding weight to kick drums and bass cabinets — now an easier task with just a single mic and the Hemisphere plug-in.

Universal Audio SD-7 Dynamic Microphone

Crafted for versatility, the Universal Audio SD-7 Microphone is a hypercardioid dynamic microphone ideal for capturing the nuances of drums and instruments. Featuring Hemisphere mic modeling technology, high SPL tolerance, and essential accessories, the SD-7 effortlessly captures the natural and open tone of tom drums, guitar cabs, horns, and more. With its high SPL handling, hypercardioid polar pattern, and best-in-class Hemisphere mic modeling, the SD-7 ensures precision and professional sound reproduction in any setting. Powered by the same mic modeling technology found in Universal Audio's award-winning UA Sphere microphones, the SD-7 comes bundled with the Hemisphere Mic Collection, offering exceptional emulations of renowned dynamics from Sennheiser and Beyerdynamic.

Included with the SD-7 are five microphone models: DN-421, DN-421S, RB-160, DN-409N, and DN-441.

DN-421B
Based on a modern 421, which has a slightly brighter and harder sound than earlier iterations — this is likely the most famous tom mic of all time, and is also no slouch on kick drum or brass instruments.

DN-421S
Based on a rare early 421 with script logo, this model has slightly more vintage character, making it useful for warming up your guitar amplifiers, drums, or even vocals.

RB-160
This model is based on a vintage 1960’s ribbon microphone with rich mid-forward character — notably used on famous rock recordings, from Jimi Hendrix’s screaming guitar amp to a pair used to record drums for "When the Levee Breaks” by Led Zeppelin.

DN-409N
Based on the earliest version in the 409 line of microphones. This vintage version has slightly more coloration than current production models, making it useful on a variety of sources including electric guitar and vocals. Notable uses of the 409 include vocals for Pink Floyd's Live at Pompeii concert video.

DN-441
The classic 441 has been used on countless records, from Fleetwood Mac and Tom Petty to Tame Impala. Many engineers and artists have relied on this model for its balanced and natural sound on vocals, snare drums, and guitar amps.

Experience the next level of dynamic microphone technology with the Universal Audio SD-3, SD-5, and SD-7 microphones.