This article answers frequently asked questions about the UA SP-1 microphones.
Getting Started
What are the SP-1 Pencil Microphones?
The SP-1 Pencil Microphones are a pair of small diaphragm condenser microphones
How do I mount the SP-1?
Each microphone snaps into the included mic stand mount. Mounts may be attached to a microphone stand or the included t-bar for stereo applications. Each mic stand mount 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.
The included stereo bar (t-bar) doesn't fit my mic stand. What do I do?
The included stereo bar (t-bar) 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.
Which direction should SP-1 point?
The SP-1 is an end address microphone, meaning sound enters through the end or top of the microphone.
Which cable should I use for SP-1?
A standard, balanced, 3-pin XLR cable.
When should I use the windscreen?
The windscreen should be used when the microphone may be exposed to large amounts of air movement.
Does SP-1 come with any plug-ins or software?
Yes! We designed custom Apollo Channel Strip Presets for Apollo and SP-1 to give you great sounding results right out of the box. Download the UA Connect app and follow the steps to register your SP-1. Once the microphones are registered, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to download the presets, and instructions on where to install them.
The Standard Series microphones also come with Apollo Channel Strip presets.
To get your presets follow the steps below.
- Open UA Connect.
- Click Microphones in the left column and select your mic.
- Click INSTALL under Additional Downloads.
To load your Apollo Channel Strip Presets, click INSERTS in Console.
How can I import my Channel Strip Presets into Console?
- Unzip the downloaded file.
- Move the folder to the following location:
macOS: Macintosh HD/Library/Application Support/Universal Audio/Presets/Channel Strip
Windows: C:\Program Files (x86)\Universal Audio\Powered Plugins\Presets\Channel Strip
Watch the UAD Basics video for more information on how to use your presets.
What is SP-1 great for?
SP-1 is great for acoustic instruments, drum overheads, piano, choir, and field recording applications.
What are the differences between SD-1 and SP-1?
SD-1 is dynamic mic, great for vocals or high SPL sources. SP-1 is a pair of small diaphragm condenser mics that deliver a more detailed sound, especially on quiet sources
General Information
Does the SP-1 need phantom power?
Yes, the SP-1 requires 48 VDC phantom power for operation.
What stereo technique can I achieve with the spacebar?
Any stereo recording technique (spaced pair, XY, ORTF) that utilizes (2) directional microphones may be used.
Which shockmount can I use with the SP-1?
Any adjustable shockmount designed for small diaphragm condenser or shotgun microphones may be used. Universal Audio does not offer a shockmount for SP-1.
Is mid-side recording possible with the SP-1?
No. Mid-side recording requires (1) directional microphone and (1) figure-8 microphone. Since SP-1 is a cardioid microphone, this is not possible.
Specifications
Model | Universal Audio Standard Pencil Microphone Pair Model One / SP-1 |
Microphone Type | Small-diaphragm Condenser |
Polar Pattern | Cardioid |
Frequency Range | 20 Hz - 20 kHz |
Sensitivity | -38 dB, 12.6mV/Pa, max 142dB SPL (1% THD) |
Output Impedance | 200 Ohms |
Adjustable Controls | None. |
Connector | 3-pin XLR |
Included Accessories | 2 x Mic Stand Mounts, Stereo T-bar, 2 x Foam Windscreens, 2 x Mic Thread Adapters |
Dimensions (Microphone Only) | 5" (127 mm) length, 0.93" (~23.6 mm) diameter |
Weight (Microphone Only) | 0.28 lbs (~127 g) |
Documentation
For more information on the SP-1 Standard Pencil Microphones, the collection of UA Microphone Manuals are available here.