Topic: DPA 4018

[phil_er_up]

Hi all,

Been looking at the DPA4018 series. With the 4018A (standard size mic 5-6 inches long), 4018C (mid-sized mic maybe 2-3 inches long) and 4018F (size of the 402X series: 1-2 inches long) - Each of the individual specifications point to the same 4018A polar plot.

Link to DPA page:
http://www.dpamicrophones.com/en/products.aspx?c=Catalog&category=234

My question is does the size of the body affect the sound of the microphone?
Or put another way would the 4018A, C, F all run with the same rig and mic configs be exactly the same sound?

I assumed that that each one would have a similar though slightly different polar pattern and sound.

Thanks.

-patrick

[phil_er_up]

Called DPA and they said the polar patterns are the same for each capsule. The C and F bodies he said should sound the same though there is a 2Db increase in sound (relative to noise floor) for the A that the C and F do not have. Or the way I understood it, if each mic were set up next to each other with same rig/config C,F would be 110 DB for incoming signal and 112 DB for the A series or 2 DB increase. Also he said the A would be slightly quieter then the C or F. The A has a -20 db cut the other 2 don't.

[yates7592]

I assume you mean the 'E' (active) preamp, rather than 'F' ?  Anyway, I looked at this issue when I bought my 4006's. Aside from the noise differences you mentioned, there is another sonic difference, although minor. The full size A preamp has a slightly deeper low end extension (eg 5hz with 'A' vs 10hz with the 'C' on 4006's, and different again with 'E'). As the preamps are the same for all mic capsules I assume there will be a similar difference on 4018. Oh yes and the A has slightly better resistance to interference than C and then E is lower again. I went for the C version in the end, rather than E or A (which was too big). 4006C's are amazing mics, and I don't doubt 4018C would be as well. I would be interested to hear your opinions/experiences if you do make the financial sacrifice as I may end up getting a set of these caps myself one day to pair with my 'C' preamps (but on the lookout for 4011's first!).