DPA’s new headset mics improve on their classic designs. The best just got better.
DPA, manufacturer of the original headset microphone, has launched its brand new headworn range on stand 8.D70. The new d:fine™ headset mics join the classic DPA 4066 and 4088 headworn models which are loved the world over and widely used by the international theatre, broadcast and conference markets. Like their counterparts, the new mics offer consistent audio performance at all spls from a whisper to a shout, impressive gain before feedback and stable construction.
Available in omnidirectional and directional versions, the new d:fine™ headsets have been named to reflect their accurate audio definition and natural sonic characteristics. They also define a new standard in single earpiece headsets, which DPA has launched in response to market demand. The earpieces are made from a sprung material used to manufacture hearing aids, making them extremely comfortable to wear and exploiting DPA’s experience of manufacturing hearing aid components. The very fine spring automatically adjusts the headset to each wearer, ensuring that the earpiece stays in place by applying consistent pressure regardless of ear size. It can easily be taken on and off by the wearer, returning to its original shape each time.
The mics themselves use the same 5mm miniature capsules as the 4066 and 4088s but are now even smaller thanks to a new housing that fits the capsule exactly. The reduction in capsule size also allows smaller windshields to be used. “We didn’t want to compromise on sound quality by reducing the size of our proven capsule,” says DPA CEO Christian Poulsen. “With the new design we’ve managed to keep the incredible sound and lower the wind pop and handling sensitivity. The only change we’ve made to the capsule is to square off the edges slightly, which allow it to be better concealed.”
Key to the headsets’ assured success is a tiny, ingenious connector which attaches the mic to the cable. Microphones can easily be switched between omni and directional models. Just by rotating the boom, the microphone can be moved from left to right ear, or into the optimum position. And as the microphone isn’t hard-wired into the headset, the cable can be replaced cheaply and easily.
“The smaller design of our new headset makes it less visible, while retaining the DPA signature sound by using proven capsule technology that we have successfully pioneered the world over,” says Poulsen. “It may sound too good to be true but come and try it out at IBC – you’ll be the judge.”
DPA d:fine is delivered with different coloured cable steer clips, allowing for quick recognition of a specific headset. It also allows cables run from in-ear devices to be fixed in the clip, making cables run neat. A neck cable clip attaches the cable to the cloth to relieve the cable draw.