Photo: David Byrne “American Utopia” tour.
Pete Keppler is a FOH and studio engineer as well as a DPA Master Club member. He had a chance to use the some d:vote™ CORE 4099s during the David Byrne “American Utopia” tour. In this article he answers a few questions about his experiences with the d:vote™ CORE 4099.
1. How did you set up the d:vote™ CORE 4099?
As you will see in the pictures below, I tried several different applications (all on various types of drums), and in all situations. The mics were sent via Shure Axient Digital RF, as there are no hard-wired mics on our stage.
A prototype of the d:vote™ CORE 4099 on a darbuka. Retail versions of the d:vote™ CORE 4099 have a modified design.
A prototype of the d:vote™ CORE 4099 on a timbale. Retail versions of the d:vote™ CORE 4099 have a modified design.
A prototype of the d:vote™ CORE 4099 on a talking drum. Retail versions of the d:vote™ CORE 4099 have a modified design.
2. How did the d:vote™ CORE 4099 sound?
As expected, it sounded amazing! The d:vote™ 4099 Instruments Mics we’ve been using already sound superior to anything else we’ve found, but with the d:vote CORE 4099s there is even more headroom. Extra headroom is especially critical given that we’re using them on drums that have sharp transients and where the tone is very important.
3. Did anything surprise you about using the d:vote™ CORE?
That DPA could improve upon something that was already amazing. My favorite feature of every DPA mic I’ve ever used is that whatever instrument I put them on, it doesn’t sound “close-miked”. There is always a sense of space and air around the instrument using a DPA.
4. Do you have any concerns about the d:vote™ CORE?
My only concerns for the d:vote CORE (and this applies to some other DPA mics and hardware as well) is that the hardware (clips, mounting systems, shock mounts, etc.) have not held up particularly well under the stresses and strains of road use, especially on drums. However, the sound is so good; I really don’t mind replacing parts from time to time.
5. What situation do you think is perfect for using the d:vote™ CORE?
I think it is especially well-suited for the drum applications I’ve used it for because of its increased headroom, but I think it will also only improve upon any application the original 4099 has been used for: Almost any drum, orchestral strings, acoustic guitar, accordion, etc. Anywhere there’s a need for a small, flexible, beautiful-sounding mic, the d:vote CORE will be my first choice!
6. Would you recommend the d:vote™ CORE to colleagues in your business?
Absolutely, one hundred percent!