Universal Audio has long been known for pushing the boundaries of audio technology, creating products that help artists unlock their creative potential. From affordable interfaces to portable processing solutions for guitarists, the company has consistently impressed. In 2023, we were particularly taken with the UA Sphere DLX Modeling Microphone. Now, Universal Audio’s latest microphone innovation takes things even further: imagine being able to adjust the position, angle, and even the type of microphone on your drums long after you’ve finished recording and packed up your gear.
The SD-3, SD-5, and SD-7 are Universal Audio’s new dynamic microphones, designed specifically for snare drum, kick drum, and toms, respectively. In this review, we’ll dive into how these mics sound, explore their modeling capabilities, and discuss how they perform in a studio environment.
At the heart of Universal Audio’s new drum microphone series is the Hemisphere Mic Collection, a software plugin that allows users to shape, sculpt, and transform the base sound of these microphones. The plugin emulates a wide range of classic microphone designs from throughout recorded music history, providing each of the Standard-series mics with five distinct modeling options. This flexibility brings an unprecedented level of versatility to each mic, something not typically found in traditional microphones.
While these microphones are capable of creative experimentation, each model still excels in one or two specific areas. The smallest of the three, the SD-3, is perfect for snare drum and guitar amp applications. The SD-5, the largest, is tailored for kick drums and bass amps due to its bigger diaphragm and chassis. The SD-7, positioned between the two in terms of size and sonic range, is a versatile option suitable for vocals, guitars, and almost any type of drum.
Priced at $109, $179, and $129, respectively, the SD-3, SD-5, and SD-7 provide the capabilities of a high-end microphone cabinet—one that could easily cost thousands of dollars, including vintage models—all for just over $400. This offers incredible value, particularly when you consider the creative flexibility that comes with the Hemisphere plugin, allowing users to fine-tune their mic sound to fit nearly any recording scenario.
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