Universal Audio SD-1

Universal Audio’s SD-1 is a cardioid dynamic microphone for vocal and instrument recording featuring Hemisphere mic modeling technology, low cut and articulation switches, and included accessories. 

The world’s most inspiring dynamic vocal mic.
Get natural-sounding vocal and instrument recordings with Universal Audio’s SD-1, a classic dynamic mic with flat frequency response and onboard tone-shaping. With its cardioid polar pattern and best-in-class Hemisphere mic modeling, SD-1 gives you pro results, no matter where you record. 

Key Benefits

• Capture studio-quality vocals with UA’s flagship dynamic modeling microphone

• Harness the authentic sound of the most popular microphones ever made with Hemisphere mic modeling technology

• Get pristine recordings of vocals or instruments in any environment, from pro rooms to home studios

• Craft your perfect sound with ease using selectable low-cut filters and enhanced articulation boost to make vocals and instruments stand out

Record Through Five Famous Mics
SD-1 is powered by the same mic modeling technology found in Universal Audio’s award-winning UA Sphere microphones. With the included Hemisphere Mic Collection, it’s the only dynamic modeling mic that gives you the authentic sound of famous vocal and instrument mics from RCA, Beyerdynamic, Sennheiser, and more.* 

A Modeling Mic That Works for You
SD-1 and the included Hemisphere Mic Collection plug-in work with or without UA hardware, and go way beyond subtle EQ curves to give you precise control over filter, proximity, and axis — an industry first. Just set up SD-1 and use the plug-in to find that “sweet spot” for vocals, or tame harsh frequencies on your instrument. 

Get Natural Vocals in Any Environment
Universal Audio fine-tuned the cardioid polar pattern on SD-1 to easily reject background noises like fans, refrigerators, or noisy bandmates. So whether your setup is in a bedroom, rehearsal space, or pro studio — your close-miked speech and vocals will naturally pop through the mix, no muss no fuss.  

Tailor Your Tone
The filter switches on SD-1 let you easily reduce low-end rumble for cleaner recordings, or add some presence to any source. And if you own an Apollo audio interface, you can audition and record through different mic models in realtime, plus use custom channel strip presets to get album-ready sound right out of the box. 

Deck Out a Desktop Studio
SD-1’s sleek design and rear-mounted XLR jack make clean cable runs a breeze. And its built-in shockmount and windscreen will make your music recording, podcasts, livestreams, or Zoom meetings sound automatically cleaner. 

Included Hemisphere Mic Models 

DN-7
Renowned for its use on high-profile records by everyone from Michael Jackson to Metallica, this ubiquitous cardioid dynamic mic can also be found in radio and broadcasting studios around the world. By adjusting the AXIS control, you can get the sound of the mic without a windscreen — a “studio secret” favored by pro engineers.** 

DN-20
This industry-standard broadcasting mic has applications ranging from vocals to kick drums. Its presence boost and high frequency dip minimize sibilance, and with the filter switch you can get additional tone shaping by cutting below 400 Hz.

RB-77DX Satin
Used by musical icons such as Bing Crosby, Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, B.B. King, and Johnny Cash — this classic ribbon mic has also graced the desks of famous TV personalities such as David Letterman and Larry King.** 

DN-88
This all-purpose dynamic mic delivers smooth, even sound and is known for being flattering, but not overpowering. Famously used as a vocal mic by Phil Collins, it is also effective on bass guitar amps and tom drums.

DN-441
Favored by artists ranging from Fleetwood Mac and Tom Petty to Tame Impala, this large-diaphragm supercardioid mic provides balanced natural sound for vocal and instrument recording. It is also widely used in radio, television reporting, and live sound applications.**

FEATURES

• Cardioid dynamic microphone for vocal and instrument recording or broadcasting

• Get the sounds of iconic dynamic and ribbon mics with Hemisphere mic modeling

• Flat frequency response (50 Hz – 16 kHz) for natural-sounding recordings

• Tailor your sound with low cut and articulation boost switches 

• Internal shockmount reduces low-end rumble and mechanical noise

• Rear-mounted XLR jack for easy cable management

• Built-in windscreen reduces plosives and breath noise

• Rugged all-metal construction and stylish UA craftsmanship 

SPECIFICATIONS

Microphone Type: Dynamic
Polar Pattern: Cardioid
Frequency Range: 50 Hz – 16 kHz
Sensitivity: -58 dB (1.3 mV) ref 1V at 1 Pa, 1 kHz
Output Impedance: 200 Ohms
Recommended Load Impedance: Greater than 1 K Ohms
Adjustable Controls: Low Cut Filter (200 Hz): Off, On, Articulation Boost (3 – 5 kHz): Off, On
Connector: 3-Pin XLRM
Included Accessory: ⅝" to ⅜" Thread Adapter
Dimensions: 7.68" (195 mm) length, 2.36" (60 mm) diameter
Weight: 1.6 lbs (735 g)

*Hemisphere Mic Collection plug-in available upon product registration. All trademarks are property of their respective owners and used only to represent the microphones and sound treatment modeled as part of the Hemisphere software.

**Use of artist names does not constitute an official endorsement of SD-1 Dynamic Microphone with Hemisphere Modeling.