Stereo soundfield rec : which mics (compact DPA) ?

[jpremmurd]

Hi everyone !

I would like to buy a couple of very transparent and low noise microphones in order to record stereo soundfields for sound editing. I was expecting for owning a couple of 4027 (compact wide-cardioid) but the doubt is in me.

I couldn't test the DPA compact models, did the ones who could have compared them with standard models have noticed notable differences? I have read threads about the omnis 4006/4051, the 4015, but not yet about 4026/7/8.

I'm turning torward wide cardio directivity for more flat response, but would the cardioid directivity be more polyvalent for an only couple? Is it possible to make an X/Y couple with this directivity ?

Finally, I have heard that electret technology has less sustainable performances than condenser's, especially with an outdoor using. That makes me wonder if DPA would be a wise choice. What about the Microtech Gefell M950 ? Are they as clear as I'm looking for ?

Thanks for your opinions. Have a good day.

Jean-Philippe.

[didier.brest]

I think that the electret technology from DPA is much reliable as proven from long time existence of their products, existing under B&K brand before becoming DPA at the beginning of the 90s.

[Rob King]

These mics are fantastic. I own a pair of the cardiod 4023's here..

DPA Microphones :: Products

The XY/ORTF Stereo Holder works very nice as well and I have zero complaints on any imaging issues using the 4023 cardiod's and this option. here...

DPA Microphones :: Products

I have heard mine against a pair of 4011's and I think these compact mics are very very close. The mic's are quiet, easy to get into small places and best of all sound fantastic. I really like them on Piano too. I use mine to do a lot of SFX recording. I don't see how anyone could not like these or Schoeps Mics. They are very useful and sound wonderful on a lot of different sources. Considering the size of these mics, there is no compromise is sound quality to any super high end SDC. thumbsup

[jpremmurd]

Hello guys, (bonjour la Bretagne Didier). Thanks for your replies.

The reliability of DPA mics is proven, but mostly in dry and warm studio environment. I've read that the nickel diaphragms of DPA mics were very sensitive to oxydation, so are the disadvantages of nomad use with humidity level and temperature fluctuations. My bank account finds the purchase of a DPA couple rather important, so I try to know a little more about those mics.

Has someone heard the Microtech Gefell M9XX ? They seem very interesting by their characteristics.

Bye.

[JonesH]

Originally Posted by jpremmurd

Hello guys, (bonjour la Bretagne Didier). Thanks for your replies.

The reliability of DPA mics is proven, but mostly in dry and warm studio environment. I've read that the nickel diaphragms of DPA mics were very sensitive to oxydation, so are the disadvantages of nomad use with humidity level and temperature fluctuations. My bank account finds the purchase of a DPA couple rather important, so I try to know a little more about those mics.

The Swedish Radio uses a lot of DPA in a lot of places. Stability is a non-issue. Check this out:

DPA Microphones :: Microphone Stability

[Dark1]

I use a pair of DPA 4006s in my sound hunts and they never failed me, even in humid and hot environments, like cavern systems in Mexico...

I have no real-world experience w/4023 or 4011 in harsh environments, also, they use a different capsule material (aluminum-coated plastic membrane), but I wouldn't worry, DPA has a reputation of making very reliable microphones...

Hope this helps!

Originally Posted by jpremmurd

Hello guys, (bonjour la Bretagne Didier). Thanks for your replies.

The reliability of DPA mics is proven, but mostly in dry and warm studio environment. I've read that the nickel diaphragms of DPA mics were very sensitive to oxydation, so are the disadvantages of nomad use with humidity level and temperature fluctuations.

Bye.

[John Willett]

DPA are excellent and reliable, you should have no problems.

Modern electrets are far far more reliable than the first ones were when they were invented. And modern high quality electrets are all back-electrets where the electret material is part of the back-plate and the diaphragm is basically the same as a normal condenser diaphragm.

Yes - for bullet-proof reliability outside, nothing can beat an RF condenser like the Sennheiser MKH series - but, other than this, the DPA are superb mics and you should have no fears.