Description

When the low end needs to hit with weight but still leave every transient intact, the Sontronics DM-1B large-diaphragm condenser microphone is built to capture the full impact. Originally developed specifically for kick drum as part of Sontronics' three-year drum microphone project, the DM-1B combines a large-diaphragm cardioid capsule with an end-fire design that makes precise placement easy inside or outside the drum. Its 20Hz–20kHz frequency response captures deep resonance alongside the definition and attack that help a kick sit clearly in a mix, while a selectable -15dB pad raises maximum SPL handling to an impressive 155dB. Developed with input from professional producers, engineers and drummers, the DM-1B brings powerful, natural low-frequency reproduction to both studio sessions and live stages.

High-SPL Handling Captures Every Kick With Clarity

The DM-1B is engineered to work close to loud, bass-heavy sources without sacrificing detail. Its 10mV/Pa sensitivity captures subtle resonance and texture, while the -15dB pad provides the headroom needed for high-impact kick drums and other powerful sources. The end-fire configuration places the cardioid capsule toward the top of the microphone, allowing the Sontronics DM-1B to be aimed directly at a kick drum's front head or positioned slightly inside the soundhole to balance attack and low-end weight. A low 14dB A-weighted equivalent noise level helps maintain clean capture when working with more nuanced sources.

Designed for Much More Than Kick Drum

Although kick drum was its original purpose, the DM-1B's extended low-frequency response and high SPL capability make it equally effective on bass guitar cabinets, double bass, baritone saxophone, bass clarinet, tuba and other low-register instruments. Position it close to a bass cabinet for focused punch, at the bell of a low brass or woodwind instrument for full-bodied detail, or even use it on male vocals when a rich condenser character suits the production. This versatility makes the DM-1B useful beyond dedicated drum-miking setups, whether it's working alone or alongside DM-1S and DM-1T microphones.

Road-Ready Construction for Studio and Stage

Built from carbon steel and stainless steel with a nickel-plated finish, the DM-1B is designed to withstand repeated positioning, setup and teardown in professional recording and live environments. Its compact 5.7" x 2.8" x 2.8" body makes placement practical around crowded drum kits and amplifier setups, while a standard 3-pin XLR connection integrates easily with professional microphone preamps and consoles. The phantom-powered Sontronics DM-1B requires 48V power and comes protected in an aluminum flight case, providing a durable professional package for engineers who need authoritative low-end capture session after session.

Sontronics DM-1B Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone - Silver
Sontronics DM-1B Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone - Silver
Sontronics DM-1B Large-Diaphragm Condenser Microphone - Silver

Features

  • Large-diaphragm condenser microphone captures powerful kick drum and bass instrument tone
  • End-fire cardioid design enables precise placement inside or outside kick drums
  • High-SPL handling up to 155dB captures loud sources with clarity and control
  • Tailored low-end response delivers deep punch while preserving attack and detail
  • -15dB pad expands headroom for aggressive drums amps and other high-output sources
  • Low self-noise supports clean professional recordings in studio and live settings
  • Versatile voicing excels on bass cabinets double bass low brass and baritone sax
  • Rugged construction withstands demanding sessions gigs and repeated close-miking use
  • Included aluminum flight case protects the microphone during storage and transport

Specs

General
  • Product type: Large-diaphragm condenser microphone
  • Model: DM-1B
  • Polar pattern: Cardioid
  • Construction: Carbon steel and stainless steel
  • Finish: Nickel plated
  • Color: Silver
Audio Performance
  • Frequency response: 20Hz–20kHz
  • Sensitivity: 10mV/Pa
  • Output impedance: ≤200 ohms
  • Maximum SPL: 155dB @ 0.5% THD, 1kHz with -15dB pad engaged
  • Equivalent noise level: 14dB (A-weighted)
Pad
  • Pad: 0dB or -15dB
Connectivity
  • Output connector: 3-pin XLR
Power
  • Phantom power: 48V required
Included Accessories
  • Aluminum flight case
  • Packaged dimensions: 9.25" × 5.12" × 11.22"
  • Packaged weight: 4.85 lb.
Other
  • Country of origin: UK
Dimensions & Weight
  • Dimensions (WxHxD): 5.67" (14.4 cm) x 2.83" (7.2 cm) x 2.83" (7.2 cm)
  • Weight: 1.76 lb. (0.8 kg)

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