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.
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.
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