Product Overview

A Modern Instrument Workhorse Powered by Advanced Virtual Emulation

The Universal Audio SD-3 redefines what a compact instrument microphone can achieve in modern recording workflows. Tracking loud percussion and high-gain guitar amplifiers requires a capsule capable of handling immense acoustic energy while maintaining transient accuracy. The SD-3 handles these intense sources effortlessly, delivering a smooth, punchy signal right out of the box. Its small form factor makes it perfect for positioning in ultra-tight spaces, such as between complex drum hardware configurations or close against a speaker grille.

While its core hardware serves as an exceptional standalone dynamic microphone, it includes free access to the Hemisphere Mic Collection software. Utilizing the same modeling engineering found in UA’s flagship award-winning Sphere systems, this technology transforms the SD-3 from a single physical microphone into an adaptable collection of five legendary dynamic microphones. This enables you to audition different historical sonic profiles and make crucial adjustments to your sound long after the tracking session has ended.

Product Description

Engineered for High-SPL Transients and Maximum Isolation:

The mechanical architecture of the SD-3 is crafted to withstand the demanding conditions of tracking percussion and instruments. Inside its durable all-metal housing rests a hand-selected dynamic capsule optimized for clear transient response and an ultra-high SPL tolerance. Whether placed millimeters away from a heavy-hitting snare rim or sitting directly in front of a dimed tube amplifier, the SD-3 captures clean, undistorted sound. Additionally, its precisely tuned cardioid polar pattern offers excellent off-axis rejection, preventing bleed from nearby cymbals or instrument bleed from muddying your source signal.

Unprecedented Tone Control with Hemisphere Software:

The SD-3 comes with the native Hemisphere Mic Modeling plug-in, which works with or without Universal Audio interface hardware inside any major DAW. Rather than simply applying crude EQ curves, the software models the genuine physical attributes of iconic dynamic instrument microphones. It lets you alter the proximity effect, adjust the virtual axis angle to tame harsh top-end bite, or apply custom filters. You can instantly shift between five renowned mic models:

• DN-57: Based on the ubiquitous, industry-standard dynamic microphone introduced in 1965—delivering the classic mid-range cut for snares and speaker cones.

• DN-545: Based on the historic Unidyne III capsule configuration used extensively on classic records from the 1960s like The Beach Boys' Pet Sounds.

• DN-604: Emulating a current-production, European-made compact dynamic clip-on mic that has become a staple for aggressive tom and snare tracking.

• DN-409U: Based on a legendary, smooth-top companion mic that excels at providing body and warmth to electric guitar cabinets.

• DN-4: Based on a modern, punchy compact instrument microphone that helps percussion and brass punch effortlessly through dense mix arrangements.

Vintage Styling and Seamless Studio Integration:

The SD-3 is finished in Universal Audio's signature clean white/cream color palette with a retro fit and aesthetic. It ships with a heavy-duty, integrated standmount thread and a protective storage pouch. It utilizes a standard 3-pin XLR connection, requiring zero phantom power. When paired with UA Apollo or Volt audio interfaces, you can load custom-engineered console presets that instantly configure optimal preamp gain, analog compression settings, and frequency curves for a professional, mix-ready sound instantly.

Key Features

• HIGH-SPL CARDIOID CAPSULE: Designed to capture loud percussion, brass, and high-gain guitar cabinets cleanly with excellent off-axis isolation.

• HEMISPHERE MIC MODELING: Grants access to a virtual microphone locker containing five authentic emulations of iconic dynamic workhorse mics.

• COMPACT, LOW-PROFILE CHASSIS: Small form factor allows for effortless and precise mic placement in tight spaces around drums and instrument rigs.

• POST-RECORDING PROXIMITY & AXIS CONTROL: Tweak the virtual proximity effect, off-axis response, and filters even after the performance has been recorded.

• RUGGED ALL-METAL BUILD: Heavy-duty aluminum housing and premium UA craftsmanship ensure long-term durability on the stage or in the studio.

• STANDMOUNT & POUCH INCLUDED: Ships with a robust 5/8"-27 to 3/8"-16 thread adapter, integrated stand mount, and a dedicated travel pouch.

• PASSIVE OPERATION: Dynamic capsule design operates entirely on a standard analog signal path, requiring no 48V phantom power.

• APOLLO SYSTEM PRESETS: Features deep integration with Apollo audio interfaces for immediate access to custom-tuned real-time tracking presets.

Technical Specifications