By Steve La Cerra
Designed specifically with live applications in mind, the 2012 and 2015 from DPA are the latest additions to the company’s 2000 Series of microphones. Intended for use on a variety of instruments, the 2012 and 2015 are small-diaphragm mics utilizing 17mm, pre-polarized, pressure-gradient capsules built into a very compact (.75 x 3.7 inches) housing. For situations where a traditional cardioid pattern is too tight (like overhead on a large drum set), the wide-cardioid pattern of the 2015 is recommended.
Specs for the 2012 include sensitivity 8 mV/Pa, -42 dB re. 1 V/ Pa; equivalent noise level 20 dBA typical, maximum SPL 153 dB (@10% THD), and dynamic range 131 dB. Specs for the 2015 include sensitivity 12 mV/Pa, -37.7 dB re. 1 V/Pa; equivalent noise level 18 dBA typical, maximum SPL 150 dB (@10% THD), and dynamic range 132 dB.
Both models have an effective frequency range of 40 Hz to 20 kHz (±2 dB at 11.8 inches), and current consumption is 0.7 mA, well within the 2 mA phantom power spec. Stereo pairs are shipped in a softshell case with compartments for the microphones, mic clips and windscreens, while singles are furnished with a padded zippered pouch, windscreen and clip.
There’s not much to explain about the 2012 and 2015 due to the absence of adjustments or contouring switches, and the mics easily and securely mount in the provided clip: loosen the rotating collar, insert the mic, then tighten the collar to lock the mic into position. It’s a simple yet effective design that allows plenty of flexibility in mic placement, making it easy for me to sneak the 2012s and 2015s into place on toms while avoiding nearby cymbals.
Read the full review at www.mixonline.com
www.dpamicrophones.com
Australian Distributor: Amber Technology www.ambertech.com.au
