DPA Microphones
4055
Kick Drum Microphone
The shape of the DPA 4055 is another unique feature that sets it apart from other kick drum mics. Its asymmetrical design allows for easy positioning inside the drum without risking a crack in the head. However, it can just as easily be placed outside the kick drum, allowing the ideal position to be found quickly and easily. In addition, the 4055 has a larger enclosure and enough wind-dampening foam sitting just in front of the capsule behind the basket to manage turbulence in front of the resonant head hole. And all this without compromising the quality of the sound pickup.
The 4055 kick drum microphone has the same characteristics as all DPA microphones with cardioid polar pattern: a balanced frequency response on axis and a very controlled, linear frequency response off axis. Thanks to this linear frequency response, the sound of the 4055 can be adjusted and optimized for any genre. Unlike other drum microphones, you can hear the differences in sound when the DPA 4055 is placed at different angles to the kick drum. Because it is a condenser microphone, it responds quickly and produces a clear and precise sound even at high sound pressure levels (up to 164 dB SPL).
The 4055 is one of the few kick drum microphones that are not tailored to a traditional sound in a specific genre. Its performance allows a professional sound designer to create exactly the sound they are looking for regardless of music genre. Want more attack? Slide the 4055 iinto the bass drum and point it directly at the beater. For a super-deep sound, place the 4055 at the hole, directly on the outside of the drumhead. This is where the level of the sub and basses are most strongly displayed.
Not only does the position inside or outside the kick drum provide different sounds, but working with the angles of the microphone just outside the hole provides nuances of the drum sound. No matter what your sound preferences are, the 4055 captures the true sound of a kick drum, whether it's used in classical, jazz, rock, or any other genre.
The 4055 is housed in a large, rugged enclosure and directly in front of the capsule, behind the grille, is a wind-dampening foam. A specifically designed shock mount also holds the capsule in the enclosure to prevent vibration from the stage. The shock mount and additional wind damping ensure that the 4055 captures only the source.
The DPA 4055 is not limited to miking a kick drum. It is also great for other instruments such as E-guitar boxes, basses and horns. Its linear frequency response and ability to take uncolored sound to the next level are suitable for many instrument genres.
