DPA 2012 Compact Cardioid mic . Claims of “ best ” are fraught with caveats and opinions , so let ’ s delve into why the 2012 deserves the accolades it is receiving from engineers and artists in every genre .
The DPA 2011C Twin Diaphragm Cardioid , 4061 Miniature Omnidirectional , 4099 Instrument and 6066 Subminiature Headset mics are just a few examples of what DPA brings to the market : game changing innovation in versatile , rugged housings . Thus , the 2012 has an enviable family heritage , but must stand on its own merits . Fortunately , the 2012 has merit in abundance : equivalent noise level typically 20dB-A , sensitivity of 8mV / Pa +/ - 2dB at 1KHz and 156dB max SPL at 10 % THD all inside a reinforced housing with integrated mic holder at a minimalist 2.9 ounces of weight . As for sound , the 2012 retains DPA ’ s known linearity and adds their latest improvements like exceptional transient response and low noise floor .
In use , the 2012 sang the cymbals to perfection in twin overhead configuration , lulled the acoustic guitar to glass-like smoothness in a singer / songwriter setting , brought the house to its feet when used on horns in a big band environment and even got the long-haired heads bouncing when placed in front of some Marshall 4x12 stacks . In short , aside from lead vocals and kick , the 2012 equaled or exceeded the performance of industry standard mics in every conceivable situation . It is entirely possible to conduct a complete concert with 4018VL on vocals , 4055 on kick and 2012 on everything else . It ’ s simply that good of a microphone .
At $ 849 , the 2012 represents an investment , but one worth making thanks to its amazing linear on / off axis frequency and transient response , coupled with a stratospheric SPL rating and ability to deliver clean , clear audio in any situation . Put a few 2012s in your mic kit and be prepared for anything .
$ 849 www . DPAmicrophones . com
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