Essential Information About the Universal Audio SD-3 Dynamic Microphone
- Designed for powerful sources: snare drum, toms, guitar cabinets, brass and woodwinds, with excellent handling of high sound pressure levels.
- Cardioid polar pattern: effective isolation of bleed for a cleaner sound in studio, home studio, or on stage.
- Included Hemisphere modeling: access "legendary" dynamic mic tones and adjust your recording even after tracking.
- Compact size and metal construction: easy placement in tight spaces and rugged "all-terrain" durability for everyday use.
Universal Audio SD-3: The Spirit of the Classics, Designed for Modern Setups
The SD-3 fits within Universal Audio's approach: offering a reliable, ready-to-record dynamic mic while providing modern flexibility thanks to Hemisphere modeling. Its retro aesthetic and robust design make it a coherent choice for studios seeking a durable tool that's easy to position and capable of delivering immediately usable results on demanding sources.
A Dynamic Microphone for Drums, Guitar Amps, and Brass: Who and What For?
If you're looking for an effective close-miking microphone, the SD-3 is designed to capture the attack, presence, and energy of loud instruments. On a snare or tom, its cardioid pattern helps reduce bleed. In front of a cabinet, it facilitates a focused and punchy sound. For brass and woodwinds, it manages transients and levels without losing control, with quick placement even when space is limited.
Hemisphere: One Take, Multiple Sonic Signatures
The Hemisphere plug-in (included for free) uses modeling technology derived from the UA Sphere series, allowing you to explore sounds inspired by iconic dynamic models from Shure, Audix, and Sennheiser. Depending on your setup, you can work in real time with an Apollo interface or use Hemisphere natively within your DAW.
Sculpt After Recording
The major advantage is flexibility: apply a filter, adjust proximity effect, and change the axis to refine the balance between bass, midrange, and presence-even after tracking. Ideal for securing a session (one take only) while keeping headroom during mixing.
Technical Specifications
Type and Polar Pattern
- Dynamic microphone
- Polar pattern: cardioid
Frequency Response
- Frequency range: 40 Hz - 15 kHz
Connectivity and Impedance
- Output impedance: 250 Ohms
- Connector: 3-pin male XLR
Dimensions and Weight
- Dimensions: 91 x 42 mm
- Weight: 214 g
Included Accessories
- 5/8" to 3/8" thread adapter
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