The 4488 CORE Directional Headset Microphone offers an open and natural sound making it ideal for both spoken word and vocal performance applications. It provides excellent off-axis rejection in high-SPL situations. It efficiently suppresses distant sound sources making it perfect for demanding live performance environments where background noise and feedback are concerns. The bass response is designed for optimal linearity at 2-3 cm (1 inch) from the sound source. This means that the bass roll-off will be relatively prominent at a greater distance - a paramount factor when it comes to rejection of background noise and in the fight to avoid feedback.
Technically advanced mechanical headset mount construction
The new one-size-fits-all Headset is the most advanced construction on the market. It ensures comfort, even during long-term wear, but does so without sacrificing security. Its form grips gently and snuggly around the head and is easily adjustable. The spring mechanisms that grip around the ears are gentle, yet firm enough for you to feel secure during your performance. The Headset can also be customized on site to suit individual performers for perfect fit.
One-size fits all, adjustable frame
The headset frame is made of stainless steel and treated with a Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) coating that makes it extremely durable. It can tolerate high temperatures and is resilient against impact and abrasion. The frame is one-size fits all with a simple adjustment mechanism for quick and easy resizing. Anatomically correct, it fits snuggly and comfortably around the head thanks to its unique shape. The entire mic has a pleasant matte look due to the coating, making the entire headset look small and less obtrusive than other headset solutions. Furthermore, it adds nothing to the size of the microphone, as the PVD is extremely durable but at the same time extremely thin.
2-way adjustable boom
The boom can be extended or shortened, so that it can be placed at the corner of the smile. It can also be pivoted up and down at a fixed point below the ear (no more bending the boom) for even more precis placement. An anti-rotating mechanism designed into the boom shape, prevents it from rotating. A sliding lock system ensures that the boom is locked into the desired position. The entire boom can be detached at a point below the ear and moved from the right to left side of the frame.
We have also added a service connector at the end of the boom pole so that the boom and cable can be replaced independently if needed. The service connector is well-protected by a plastic cover that slides over the gold-plated connectors.
PVD-treated mic
The beige and brown versions of this mic are treated with a surface that mimics the color of the boom and adds a very distinct expression of the entire headset, However, please note that most often a small pop/windscreen is desirable (included) on a directional headset due to its higher sensitivity to wind and pop noise. This is due to the physics of a directional mic. Read more in our Mic University article:
Testing mics against wind noise
3-point ear grips
The ear grips on our new headset consist of some amazing technology. Most headsets have either a 1- or 2-point gripping system – resting on top of the ear or (sometimes) gripping below the ear. This headset relies on a 3-point gripping system – adding a support area behind the ear pressing gently inward.
This not only makes the headset sit more securely around the head even in jostling situations, but it also makes it extremely comfortable to wear even over long periods. Furthermore, the advanced, ergonomic shape of these ear grips conforms to the shape of the head.
90° cable management system
The headset has its cable guide directly at the back of the headset frame, so that you can easily organize the cables to run unobtrusively down the back of the performers. The cable guide slides from side to side, so it can be moved out of, for example, the camera view. The special construction also separates the cables from the boom movement, which ensures that cables are not pulled on when the boom is moved. This helps ensure a longer life to the mic cables.
The cable is often the weak spot on these types of mics, but we have opted to use the same size cable (Ø 1.6 mm (.06 in)) as usual. They are extremely rugged, do not become entangled and are equipped with an inner core made of Kevlar that withstands rough pulls and are the highest standard on the market.
The cable, capsule and boom design, ensure immunity to noisy wireless devices. Headsets are typically connected to a wireless belt pack and we offer a comprehensive mix of adapters to suit the many wireless transmitters available. When used with an adapter, the connector is our MicroDot, but we also offer hardwired terminations to suit the most popular systems from manufacturers such as Shure and Sennheiser. All our connectors are equipped with a rugged strain relief.
Adapter system gives you flexibility
The adapters for wireless systems give you flexible, simple and affordable possibilities. You are no longer bound to only one wireless system. As circumstances change, you can just switch your adapter, instead of incurring the cost of a completely new microphone. When you make the switch, you won't hear any loss or change in sound quality from the mic as the adapters are tailored to suit specific transmitter types.
DPA's miniature microphones work with all leading wireless mic solutions, such as Lectrosonics, Sennheiser, Shure, Sony, Wisycom, Zaxcom and many more. DPA Microphones’ ingenious adapter system is one of a kind in the industry. It protects your investment in fantastic sound for years to come. Should you prefer to have your mic hardwired to a specific connector type, DPA offers pre-terminated types for the most popular wireless systems.
Find the adapter that fits your wireless system.
IP58 certified
The CORE Miniatures are IP58 certified. This durability is achieved through a number of defence mechanisms:
• Water-repellent nano-coating of the cover and housing
• Hermetic sealing of the sensitive amplifier at the core of the mic
• Dual gold plating of the diaphragm
Read more about the durability of all our CORE by DPA technology microphones.
Please take a look at our guidelines for cleaning microphones, which includes the possibility to rinse the microphone itself in demineralized water.