New DPA 4080 cardioid lav mic a hit in Italy

Italy’s national broadcaster, RAI, is using 10 DPA 4080 miniature cardioid lavalier mics for its newly launched current affairs program, TG1.

“We had to overcome the inherent problems of a large news studio, full of plasma screens, LED walls, fans and refrigeration systems generating white noise,” said Marco Cunsolo, chief technical director of RAI Rome. “Combined with this, the program often features two or more chief anchormen in debates with several high-ranking guests including top politicians. The mics needed to be cardioids and as inconspicuous as possible. Before DPA brought out the 4080, this didn’t exist!”

Intended specifically for the broadcast market, the DPA 4080 is both small and discreet while providing superior speech intelligibility, which is ensured by a 4dB presence boost in the 4080’s response. In addition, DPA has significantly reduced handling noise from the wearer’s movements with a unique cable loop between the mic and holder. A premounted pop filter with integrated shock mount allows the mic to be turned in any direction

“I like the design and small size of the 4080, as well as the sonic balance it gives a voice while preserving its intelligibility and its rejection of off-axis noise,” Cunsolo said. “In situations where there is a PA system, the 4080 eliminates feedback problems, and the anchormen appreciate it for its simplicity, lightweight and invisibility.”

For more information, visit www.dpamicrophones.com.