This article answers frequently asked questions about SD-5.
Getting Started
What is SD-5?
Universal Audio’s SD-5 is a supercardioid dynamic microphone featuring Hemisphere mic modeling technology, high SPL tolerance, and included accessories.
Which cable should I use for SD-5?
A standard, balanced, 3-pin XLR cable. Pin 2 is Hot.
How do I mount SD-5?
SD-5 has an integrated standmount with angle adjustment. The standmount includes a pre-installed 5/8" to 3/8" adapter that can be removed for 5/8" mic stands. For 3/8" mic stands, leave the adapter in place.
What is the polar pattern of SD-5?
SD-5 has a fixed supercardioid polar pattern.
How should SD-5 be positioned?
SD-5 is an end address microphone, meaning sound enters through the black grille at the top of the mic. Point the top of the microphone towards the sound source. Its supercardioid polar pattern provides the most rejection at 180°, which can be used to eliminate unwanted sounds such as cymbals and hi-hats when positioned off-axis.
Does SD-5 come with any plug-ins or software?
SD-5 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 microphones — 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.
There are no Apollo Channel Strip Presets offered with SD-5, but plenty of presets in the Hemisphere plug-in itself!
For more information about Hemisphere, read this article.
Which mic models do I get with SD-5 and Hemisphere?
SD-5 includes the following mic models in Hemisphere:
- DN-52 (inspired by the Shure Beta 52)
- DN-112 (inspired by the AKG D112)
- DN-6 (inspired by the Audix D6)
- DN-SUB (inspired by Subkick microphones)
- DN-12A (inspired by the AKG D12A)
Note: The new version of Hemisphere including the new microphone models is currently only available in the native UAD format – the UAD-2 DSP version will be released at a later time.
What is SD-5 great for?
SD-5 is great for kick drums and bass cabinets as it benefits from an extended low frequency range and precise transient response.
General Information
Does SD-5 need phantom power?
No. SD-5 is a passive dynamic microphone.
I'm selling my SD-5. How do I transfer ownership?
To transfer ownership of an SD-5, the new owner just needs to register the microphone to their account using UA Connect.
Specifications
Model | Universal Audio Standard Dynamic Microphone / SD-5 |
Microphone Type | Dynamic |
Polar Pattern | Supercardioid |
Frequency Range | 20 Hz - 15 kHz |
Sensitivity | -64 dB (0 dB = 1V/Pa @ 1 kHz) |
Output Impedance | 50 Ohms |
Connector | 3-pin XLR |
Included Accessories | One ⅝" to ⅜" thread adapter, one storage pouch |
Dimensions (Microphone Only) | 4.06" (103.2 mm) length, 2.68" (68 mm) width, 5.61" (142.6 mm) height, 2.68" (68 mm) diameter |
Weight (Microphone Only) | 1.6 lbs, 727 g |
Documentation
For more information on the SD-5 Microphones, UA Microphone Manuals are available here.