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SP-1 Standard Pencil Microphones FAQ

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 to import your Channel Strip Presets into Console?

  1. Unzip the downloaded file
  2. Move the folder to the following location:

macOS: Mac 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 to learn 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 info

 

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.

 

Documentation

UA Microphone Manuals

 

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