Got Loud Instruments? Get This Mic!
Or, rather, get these five mics. You read that correctly, the Universal Audio SD-3 Dynamic Microphone leverages the same Hemisphere technology found within UA’s other Standard series mics, resulting in five of the most iconic dynamic instrument microphones together in a single, sleek package. This dynamite cardioid dynamic mic is poised to become a daily studio staple from the moment you unbox it, with its hand-selected capsule that handles extremely high SPL, easy-to-place design, and all-metal construction that can easily take a whack from a wayward drumstick. Sweetwater studio engineers are quick to point out that the SD-3 isn’t just for snare drums, however — look at the Hemisphere interface for your SD-3, and you’ll see some familiar faces that have featured on guitar cabs and other loud instruments for decades. Whether you track drums, guitars, vocalists, brass, or other high-decibel instruments, the Universal Audio SD-3 with Hemisphere mic modeling technology belongs in your mic locker.
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Explore Hemisphere’s virtual mic locker
Included with your new SD-3 microphone, the Hemisphere modeling plug-in takes the concept of UA’s Sphere software and applies it to a dynamic mic meant for snare drums, guitar cabs, and other loud instruments. It spans models of five iconic dynamic mics from the world’s most respected manufacturers. Whether you’re looking for the industry-standard snare drum sound or other unique instrument sounds, Hemisphere has you covered — and then some. Better still, Hemisphere is compatible with every drum microphone in Universal Audio’s Standard series, and includes modeled microphones optimized for the SD-3 snare/drum instrument mic, the SD-5 kick drum mic, and the SD-7 tom/instrument mic.
Included Hemisphere mic models:
- DN-57: Based on a recent production model of the best-selling microphone of all time, this mic is a standard choice for snare drums and guitar cabinets. It also blends well with other mics, such as ribbons and large-diaphragm condensers.
- DN-545: Built around the Unidyne III capsule, this mic was used extensively on the Beach Boys' iconic Pet Sounds album, most notably on Brian Wilson's lead vocals.
- DN-604: This compact, clip-on mic is based on a current-production, European-made model, and it's a shoo-in for snare and toms.
- DN-409U: This mic is an industry-standard choice for electric guitar amps, and its low-end response below 100Hz helps instruments and vocals sit nicely in the mix.
- DN-4: Able to tackle toms, guitar cabinets, and snare drums with equal aplomb, this mic includes a 3-position filter for added sound sculpting.
Enjoy total control with Hemisphere
There’s more to like about Hemisphere beyond the larger-than-life microphone models. The plug-in also offers proximity, axis, and filter parameters. The proximity knob virtually increases or decreases the distance of your microphone from the source, so you don’t have to physically move the mic to achieve an optimal sound. Furthermore, the axis control virtually alters the axis at which the mic is placed — an industry first. This control helps tame harsh, unwanted frequencies on your guitar amps, snare drums, and much more. Most importantly, Hemisphere is so powerful that you can change the filter, proximity, and axis controls even after you’re done tracking. Using Hemisphere is the easiest way to get perfect recordings the first time.
Universal Audio SD-3 Dynamic Microphone Features:
- Cardioid dynamic microphone designed for snare drum, guitar cabs, or other loud instruments
- Hemisphere modeling technology gives you access to 5 classic microphone models
- Proximity, filter, and axis controls shape your sound — before or after tracking
- Hand-selected dynamic capsules to handle extreme SPL in daily use
- Rugged all-metal construction stands up to regular use and wear and tear
- Vintage aesthetic is cool, classic, and never goes out of style
- Easy to place; standmount with adapter and storage pouch and box are also included
- Available as a single mic or in a convenient bundle of 3
