DPA PROVIDES SUPERIOR DYNAMIC RANGE FOR H.E.R.
04/08/2020
LOS ANGELES In Hip Hop and R&B, it can be difficult to find a microphone solution that allows the artists' natural talent to shine through, but that's exactly what H.E.R.'s Production Manager/Monitor Engineer William Chainey Harpe and FOH engineer Kevin Brown found in DPA Microphones' d:facto 4018VL Vocal Microphone. The duo have collectively worked with some of the biggest recording artists in these genres, including Toni Braxton, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige, Lil Wayne, Cody Simpson, Outkast and Chris Brown. So, they understand the pressure of delivering the best sound possible to sold-out stadiums, arenas and festivals. When they set out on the Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter's most recent tour, they found that DPA provided the unrivaled sound for which they were looking.
The pair chose the d:facto entirely as a result of Brown's experience using it with Toni Braxton. The fundamental of H.E.R.'s voice is the huge mid-range she has in the timbre of her voice, he explains. The linear response of the d:facto 4018VL capsule actually helps accentuate and pull out that mid-range. Normally, as an engineer, you think about the top-end and the upper mid-range to bring out the presence, but that's not the fundamental of her voice. For the DPA to capture that and give you this big, warm vocal through a PA in a huge arena says a lot about the capsule.
After hearing the 4018VL on H.E.R.'s vocals, Harpe found it to be the best choice he has used in the last couple of years. When Kevin decided to bring the 4018VL out on tour with H.E.R., it was the first time I actually had the opportunity to listen to it, mess with it and use it consistently, he says. It turned out to be a fantastic microphone. I noticed right away that DPA is very consistent even when you hit it hard.
Another strength, according to Brown, is the d:facto's ability to minimize proximity effect. H.E.R. has great mic technicality in pulling away from the capsule when she needs to and staying closer when she wants to, he adds. But the d:facto stays pretty tonally neutral across the spectrum. Supercardioid/hypercardiod mics versus cardioid mics; that's something we've been trying to figure out for years. This d:facto capsule captures it all. It really is the perfect solution for vocals.
The duo also finds that their workflow is smoother with the use of the DPA mics. For me, there is definitely less filtering, says Chainey. We have two very dynamic background singers who also use the d:facto sometimes to add more harmony to H.E.R's lead line, so we might have a lot more presence in the mix, whereas other times we don t. So, we end up with several mixes, with each one positioned differently. I usually set the gain structure and do minimal adjustments, but otherwise it really holds that consistency in the texture and timbre from song to song. It's unlike any other capsule I have ever used.
Brown, meanwhile, is always cutting and speeding up annoying frequencies in competitor capsules. With the DPAs, I can run with just a high-pass and a low-pass, and maybe a boost, and I m okay. I loosen the top-end because it's so linear and I let the vocals do the rest of the work. It's really that simple.
In addition to the d:facto vocal mic, the duo also utilizes DPA's 4099 CORE instrument mics on H.E.R.'s touring drum kit. A lot of times when I m mixing other mics on drums, I go back and forth moving and testing, says Chainey. The 4099 CORE mics sound so natural. I noticed that if we have them in a good position, we're pretty much set to go. There is never a lot of phasing or cross pattern between the drums; I really enjoy the sound we get.
Brown and Chainey aren't the only ones to become DPA believers. The day following H.E.R.'s Grammy performance, she appeared on The Ellen Show. We took the DPA mics over to the show in hopes of using them for that performance as well, adds Brown. Ellen's long-time in-house audio team were reluctant to swap out their mic, but ultimately agreed to let us use DPA. At the conclusion of the show, Ellen's broadcast engineer stated that the DPA's were the best mics he had ever heard.
Performance isn't everything for Brown and Chainey. For me it's also about customer service, says Brown. It's one thing to get a great technical product, it's another to be able to call a rep and, within 24 hours, have someone from the company drive to your rehearsals to drop off the capsule or gear you need. When world-class products are matched by world-class customer service, its noticed. Everyone at DPA has been exceptional.
LINK: | https://www.dpamicrophones.com/news/dpa-provides-superior-dynamic-rang... |
See more stories from dpa |
More from DPA Microphones
20/03/2024
DPA DELIVERS THE LAUGHS FOR LIVE COMEDY SPECIALS
Production Sound Mixer Thomas Cassetta creates clean, natural sound with DPA Microphones for standup shows, documentaries and podcasts. Production Sound and Re...
20/03/2024
DPA SHOWCASES VERSATILITY OF NEW COMPACT SHOTGUN MICROPHONE AT NAB 2024
The 2017 Shotgun Mic excels in a variety of challenging environments and applications DPA Microphones will highlight the standout features of its compact 2017 ...
21/02/2024
LORD HURON TAKES DPA FROM STUDIO TO STAGE
American rock band calls on DPA vocal and instrument mics for consistent recorded and live performances Adored for their emotive lyricism and moody undertones,...
22/01/2024
SOUND NETWORK LTD REBRANDS AS DPA MICROPHONES UK
DPA Microphones announces that its UK Division, Sound Network Ltd, has rebranded as DPA Microphones UK. While the name has evolved, the DPA Microphones UK team...
17/01/2024
DPA MICROPHONES HOSTS GRAND PLAZA TOUR AT NAMM 2024
Brand teams up with Yamaha for production truck that will allow attendees to see and hear esteemed DPA mics used on the grand plaza stage in action DPA Microph...
16/01/2024
DPA MICROPHONES HIGHLIGHTS 2017 SHOTGUN MICROPHONE AT ISE 2024
New mic captures authentic, high-clarity sound for a variety of applications DPA Microphones is showcasing its new 2017 Shotgun Microphone at ISE 2024 (Stand 7...
08/01/2024
WELSH NATIONAL OPERA ENTERTAINS AND INSPIRES WITH DPA MICROPHONES
Sound Designer Sebastian Frost Provides a Transformative Experience for Audiences Welsh National Opera has put on powerful performances for audiences across S...
08/01/2024
DPA SHOWCASES LIVE PERFORMANCE BENEFITS OF 2017 SHOTGUN MICROPHONE AT NAMM 2024
Newest Mic Captures Authentic, High-clarity Sound for Live Musical Performances DPA Microphones will highlight its new 2017 Shotgun Microphone at the 2024 NAMM...
08/01/2024
MONITOR ENGINEER JAMES BERRY TRUSTS DPA MICROPHONES FOR VERSATILE, HIGH-QUALITY AUDIO ON BEYONC'S R
Fans recently flocked to cities across North America and Europe for a chance to ...
23/11/2023
DPA GETS A CURTAIN CALL FROM THIRD ENCORE STUDIOS
DPA's instrument and vocal microphones provide reliable, clear audio for rehearsal spaces and touring packages Before your favorite musicians hit the stage...
20/11/2023
DPA MICROPHONES NAMED AS FINALIST FOR TWO NAMM TEC AWARDS FOR OUTSTANDING TECHNICAL ACHIEVEMENT
New 2012 Cardioid and 2015 Wide Cardioid recognized for excellence in Recording ...
26/10/2023
CHURCHES FROM COAST TO COAST RECEIVE CLARITY AND CONSISTENCY WITH DPA MICROPHONES
DPA's discreet vocal, instrument and headset solutions provide authentic sou...
12/10/2023
DPA MICROPHONES LAUNCHES THE 2017 SHOTGUN MICROPHONE
Newest mic captures authentic, high-clarity sound for broadcasting events DPA Microphones has launched the 2017 Shotgun Microphone. Designed to capture authent...
02/10/2023
PBS' AUSTIN CITY LIMITS MAKES MUSIC HISTORY WITH DPA MICROPHONES
Audio Supervisor Randy Reynolds uses DPA's 4099 Instrument Condenser and 2011 Twin Diaphragm mics to provide quality sound for live performances As the lon...
21/09/2023
DPA MICROPHONES ANNOUNCES NEW HEADQUARTERS
New location features high-tech upgrades, inspirational settings and modern amenities to drive R&D DPA Microphones has opened its new headquarters in Kokkedal,...
23/08/2023
DPA HIGHLIGHTS NEW LOCATION SOUND KIT AT IBC 2023
Comprehensive solution with a variety of mics and accessories caters to film and broadcast professionals. DPA Microphones is showcasing its new DLS4000 Locatio...
10/08/2023
CONSISTENCY IS KEY FOR INSTRUMENT MIKING AT HULT CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS
General Manager Jeff Weinkauf trusts DPA Microphones for clear and authentic audio As one of the only performing arts centers of its caliber in the area, Hult...
03/08/2023
WEST END PRODUCTION OF WICKED IS DANCING THROUGH LIFE WITH NEW DPA MICS
Associate Sound Designer Hyder Khalil Upgrades Show's Sound With the Brand's Instrument and Headworn Mics For the past 15 years, Associate Sound Design...
06/07/2023
GOSPEL MUSICIAN TODD DULANEY RECORDS LATEST ALBUM LIVE WITH PRODUCER DONTANIEL JAMEL KIMBROUGH
Duo Entrusts DPA Microphones to Deliver Authentic, Transparent Sound for The Jo...
06/07/2023
DPA ANNOUNCES NEW MICROPHONE KITS FOR PROFESSIONAL SOUND ENGINEERS
Bundles are Designed to Cover Miking Needs for Specific Applications, From Studio and Live Recordings to Live Events and Location Sound After an incredible res...
22/06/2023
DPA MICROPHONES ARE A MATCH MADE IN HEAVEN FOR BROADWAY'S & JULIET
Sound Designer Gareth Owen Relies on Brand's Instrument and Headset Mics for Versatile and Reliable Live Audio Known for crafting flawless audio for musica...
12/06/2023
SOUND ON SOUND REVIEWS THE ULTIMATE RECORDING MICROPHONE KIT
DPA's new flagship mic bundle offers quality and quantity in abundance. We put it to work in a busy studio... Danish company DPA Microphones have a reputat...
31/05/2023
LSi REVIEWS THE 2012, 2015 AND 4055
Simon Allen gets to grips with some of the latest microphones to hit the stage "I found the 2012 to behave in a similar fashion to dynamic microphones, giving ...
31/05/2023
AUDIOTECHNOLOGY REVIEWS THE DDK4000 DRUM MICROPHONE KIT
DPA pulls together a premium family of its compact microphones to lend a larger-than-life sound to drum kits on stage or in the studio. "DPA makes exceptionall...
10/05/2023
JACARAND GROUP ELEVATES ITS WORLD-CLASS RECORDINGS AND LIVE EVENTS WITH DPA
Engineers and Co-owners Julian J. Ludwig and Alberto Gebhard Call on DPA Microphones' Unrivaled Natural Sound Quality for Classical Music and Jazz Recording...
26/04/2023
Dennie Miller, FOH for Volbeat talks about condenser mics on drum kits
Listen to Dennie Miller talk about his experiences using DPA mics with Volbeat. Coming from an audio system engineering background, Dennie Miller, FOH for Volb...
12/04/2023
STROMAE'S AUDIO TEAM MASTERS CLEAR AND NATURAL LIVE SOUND WITH DPA MICROPHONES
Sound Engineer and Back-up Mixer rely on DPA's d:facto Vocal Microphone for...
12/04/2023
DPA MICROPHONES UNVEILS NEW DRUM MIKING KIT AT THE 2023 NAMM SHOW
The solution features the newest 2012, 2015 and 4055 mics, along with the renowned 4099. DPA Microphones (NAMM Show Booth 14504) launches the DDK4000, the comp...
29/03/2023
LIVE DOLBY ATMOS RECORDINGS AT NOWA MIODOWA CONCERT HALL ENHANCED WITH DPA MICROPHONES
Sound Director Tadeusz Mieczkowski Selects DPA for Durability, Reliability and S...
29/03/2023
DPA MICROPHONES ANNOUNCES NEW 2012 AND 2015 PENCIL MICS
Newest solutions offer precise sound reproduction for the live stage. DPA Microphones, the leading manufacturer of high-quality microphone solutions, unveils i...
08/03/2023
MNESKIN TOURS WITH DPA VOCAL MICROPHONE
GRAMMY -nominated and Eurovision-winning Italian rock band M neskin continues its global ascent to stardom with a world tour and dozens of festivals in every co...
20/02/2023
IMMERSIVE AUDIO RECORDINGS ENHANCED WITH PRECISION SOUND PICK-UP FROM DPA MICROPHONES
Brand's 4006 Omnidirectional Condenser Mic Offers Balance and Clarity for Re...
10/02/2023
PERFORMER MAGAZINE REVIEWS 2028 VOCAL MICROPHONE
Vocalists usually don't dwell on microphones like a guitarist would over pedals, pickups and other items, but considering the purest path is the best soundi...
26/01/2023
DPA MICROPHONES PROVIDES STUNNING AUDIO FOR MUSICAL EVENTS ACROSS THE U.S.
Brand's Vocal and Instrument Microphones Assist Varying Musical Performances With Sound Quality, Clarity and Reliability Despite the varied cultural differ...
26/01/2023
ROOMFUL OF TEETH IS ALL SMILES WITH DPA MICROPHONES
Brand's Mics Complement Ensemble's Unique Vocals in Recorded and Live Applications From first listen, it's obvious that amplified vocal ensemble Ro...
26/01/2023
DPA MICROPHONES OFFER PRISTINE AUDIO QUALITY FOR PHILHARMONIC STUDIOS
Studio Owner Greg Miner Relies on Full DPA Microphone Lineup for Inaugural Clients at High-End Recording Space Nestled in an idyllic wooded setting just north ...
19/01/2023
A.R. RAHMAN AND DPA MICROPHONES TEAM UP FOR REOPENING OF DUBAI'S AL WASL DOME
Sound Designer and Mix Engineer Phil Wright Trusts the Brand's Microphones f...
13/12/2022
DPA MICROPHONES PERFORM SWIMMINGLY FOR OCEAN-INSPIRED COMPOSITIONS
Q Up Arts Founder and Composer Douglas Morton Relies on Brand for Immersive Aquarium Exhibit A journey into the depths of the ocean is out of grasp for most, b...
01/12/2022
DPA MICROPHONES CREATES KILLER AUDIO FOR THE KILLERS' FALL TOUR
FOH Engineer Kenny Kaiser and Monitor Engineer Marty Beath rely on DPA's Live Sound Solutions Always on the lookout for the newest audio solutions for the ...
21/11/2022
DPA MICROPHONES PRESENTED WITH PRESTIGIOUS DANISH SOUND AWARD
Company Selected from Among Many of the Nation's Innovative Audio Brands Denmark's top sound companies gathered at the Technical University of Denmark...
18/10/2022
DPA MICROPHONES CREATES POWERFUL AUDIO FOR LORDE'S SOLAR POWER' TOUR
Mixing Engineer Philip J. Harvey Relies on DPAs Vocal, Headset and Instrument Mics for Accurate, High-quality Audio. Since her first GRAMMY Awards performance...
17/10/2022
SOUND ON SOUND REVIEWS 4055
The extremes of frequency that the microphone captured helped provide the low end impact I was looking for, and without adding any equalisation. Sound On Sound...
11/10/2022
HEADLINER REVIEWS 4055 KICK MIC
Headliner Magazines reviewer brought along 4055 on a couple of live sound gigs for some real-world kick mic testing. "With my options open, it gave me a chance...
05/10/2022
DPA MICROPHONES SPOTLIGHTS LIVE SOUND MIKING SOLUTIONS AT AES NEW YORK 2022
DPAs Vocal and Instrument Mics Ideal for Variety of Studio and Live Performance Applications. DPA Microphones will showcase its esteemed studio and live sound ...
24/08/2022
DPA CELEBRATES 20 YEARS OF THE MUSICAL NOTRE-DAME DE PARIS IN ITALY
Twenty years after first opening in Italy, the complete original cast of Notre-Dame de Paris is back on stage to celebrate the anniversary. Following the suc...
09/08/2022
DPA SHARES NEWEST MIC SOLUTIONS WITH MEDIA AND ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY AT IBC 2022
DPA's Micro Shotgun, Headsets and Kick Drum Mic Bring Superior Intelligibili...
06/08/2022
GEARSPACE REVIEWS 2028 MICROPHONE
There arent many handhelds that are as good sounding and well-rounded as the 2028. "Build quality: Nothing but excellent, and I'd like to highlight the fac...
06/08/2022
LIVE SOUND INTERNATIONAL REVIEWS 4055 KICK DRUM MIC
I think DPA has absolutely knocked this one out of the park. Live Sound International s Dennie Miller tested our 4055 Kick Drum mic on a wide variety of drums,...
04/08/2022
BONEDO REVIEWS 4055 KICK DRUM MICROPHONE
With the DPA 4055 you get a microphone that is absolutely worth its price and can pass as a high-end all-rounder. One of Germany s leading online magazines, B...
04/08/2022
AMAZONA.DE REVIEWS 4055 KICK DRUM MICROPHONE
German online magazine Amazona.de reviews the 4055 kick drum microphone. "The linear frequency response of the DPA 4055 is important to mention. In contrast to...