FAQ: SC-1 Condenser Microphone with Hemisphere Modeling

This article answers frequently asked questions about the UA SC-1 microphones.

Getting Started

What is SC-1?

The Universal Audio Standard Series SC-1 microphone is a phantom-powered (48VDC) large-diaphragm condenser microphone, with a cardioid polar response pattern. The SC-1 includes the Hemisphere mic modeling plug-in in both the UAD-2 and UADx native platforms. 

Which cable should I use for my SC-1?

Any standard balanced, 3-pin XLR cable works for UA Standard Series microphones. Pin 2 is hot.

How do I mount the microphone in the mic stand mount?

Thread the included mic stand mount onto a 5/8" thread microphone stand. Insert the microphone into the stand mount and rotate the stand mount collar clockwise to tighten the microphone into the mount.

What is SC-1 great for?

The SC-1 is equally at home with intimate vocals and high SPL instruments, such as electric guitars and drum overheads

How should the SC-1 be positioned?

The UA badge indicates the front of the microphone. Since the SC-1 is a side address, fixed cardioid microphone, the UA badge should be facing the sound source.

What is the polar pattern of the SC-1?

The SC-1 has a fixed cardioid polar pattern.

Does SC-1 come with any plug-ins or software?

SC-1 includes the Hemisphere Mic Collection plug-in. Using the same award-winning tech as our UA Sphere modeling microphones, Hemisphere gives your studio the authentic sound of essential condensers from Neumann, Sony, AKG, and more — in realtime with Apollo or natively in your DAW. You can also shape the sound of your recordings using filter, proximity, and axis controls — even after tracking.

Note: The Hemisphere mic modeling plug-in is now available on both the UAD-2 and UADx native platforms

Does the SC-1 need phantom power?

Yes, the SC-1 requires 48 VDC phantom power for operation.

Does the SC-1 come with a shockmount?

No, the SC-1 includes a mic stand mount

General Information

How do I register my microphone and download the software?

Use the UA Connect application to register your UA microphone and get Hemisphere. To learn how to use UA Connect, go here.

I'm selling my SC-1. How do I transfer ownership? 

To transfer ownership of an SC-1, the new owner must register the microphone to their account using UA Connect.

Note: The Hemisphere plug-in only comes with brand new Standard Series microphones. If you've purchased a second-hand Standard Series microphone, please contact Customer Service here.

What is the max SPL of the SC-1?

The max SPL of the SC-1 is 145 dB (1% T.H.D. @ 1 kHz).

What is the self-noise of the SC-1?

The self-noise of the SC-1 is 12 dB.

What are the differences between SD-1, SC-1, and SP-1?

SD-1 is dynamic mic, great for vocals or high SPL sources. SC-1 is large diaphragm condenser mic, great for almost anything. SP-1 is a pair of small diaphragm condenser mics that deliver a more detailed sound, especially on quiet sources. 

How does the sound of SC-1 compare to microphones from other companies?

The SC-1 has higher SPL and lower self-noise than any modeling microphone on the market. Combining the SC-1 with UA Apollo and Volt interfaces provides world class results.

Why should I buy an SC-1 over some other competing microphone?

Great sound quality.

Low self-noise and high max SPL.

Hemisphere Microphone Modeling plug-in. 

Great industrial design.

What accessories come with the SC-1?

In addition to the microphone, there is a microphone stand mount and carrying case.

Specifications

Model Universal Audio Standard Condenser Microphone Pair Model One / SC-1
Microphone Type Large-diaphragm Condenser
Polar Pattern Cardioid
Frequency Range 20 Hz - 20 kHz
Sensitivity -32 dB, max 135dB SPL (1% THD)
Output Impedance 150 Ohms
Adjustable Controls None.
Connector 3-pin XLR
Included Accessories

1 x Mic stand mount, 1 x UA branded cable tie, 1 x 5/8” to 3/8” thread adapter, 1 x Storage pouch/box

Dimensions (Microphone Only) 6.4" (162 mm) length x 2 (52 mm) diameter
Weight (Microphone Only) 0.8 lbs (363 g)

 Note: The SC-1 requires Phantom power (48VDC) to operate.

Documentation

For more information on the SC-1 Standard Pencil Microphones, the collection of UA Microphone Manuals are available here.

Articles in this section