NAMM 2016 saw a series of interesting new microphone announcements. Electro-Voice was one of the companies signaling a comeback to this important segment with the launch of its new ND Series, succeeding the popular EV N/Dym Series. The ND Series features eight new microphones – four vocal and four instrument models – all with superior sound quality and smart new features, designed for live performance and studio applications.
Electro-Voice announced the global launch of the new ND Series of wired vocal and instrument microphones at the 2016 NAMM Show in Anaheim. The successor to the renowned N/Dym Series, the new ND Series expands the previous product offering with four vocal and four instrument models for live performance and studio applications.
As highlighted by Rick Belt, Product Manager Electro-Voice Microphones, wach ND Series model is equipped with features that are unique to both its price point and its particular application – all designed to offer superior sound quality, acoustic control and robustness. At the heart of the new dynamic models is a new large-diaphragm capsule design which takes the technology of the original N/Dym capsule to new levels of sonic performance.Vocalists can select a specific ND Series model to provide optimal results according to venue size and/or stage volume. Sound engineers and musicians will benefit from an easy set-up due to innovative mechanical solutions that solve typical instrument mic placement challenges. The series features dent-resistant Memraflex grilles, humbucking coils to guard against EMF noise and shock-mounted capsules to minimize handling noise.
The ND Series dynamic vocal microphones are designed to address three distinct application scenarios, and are differentiated by polar pattern, capsule voicing and grille shape.
The ND76 and ND76S (with on/off switch) are the optimal choice for small to medium-sized venues, with a cardioid polar pattern and pronounced upper-mid-range presence for crisp, clear and balanced vocal tone. The ND86 will perform exceptionally well in large concert and festival-sized venues, with a controlled supercardioid polar pattern and reduced sensitivity to specific off-axis frequencies, particularly stage noise. The ND96 is an excellent choice for loud stages of any size, with extremely high gain-before-feedback that pushes vocals through the mix. It achieves this with a supercardioid polar pattern, a tailored frequency curve and a distinctive squared-off grille which allows the singer to get as close as possible to the capsule.
The ND Series instrument models are an excellent choice for both live sound and studio work. Three dynamic models and one small-diaphragm condenser model are available, each optimized for their applications by polar pattern, capsule voicing and mechanical design.
The ND44 is a lightweight clip-on dynamic mic that is ideal for tom-tom and snare drums. The innovative mounting clip ensures quick, secure placement on drum rims, while a compact form factor and low-profile angling head allow for precise, unobtrusive placement in other applications. It is equally capable when deployed on guitar cabinets – either stand-mounted or hung directly over the cabinet.
The larger ND46 dynamic mic is designed for drums and general instrument miking, with a unique locking pivot mechanism for simple and accurate positioning —particularly in hard-to-reach areas of drum kits. It will also achieve excellent results on lower frequency applications, including floor toms and bass cabinets. The new ND Series adds a small-diaphragm condenser model to the lineup – the ND66. The ND66’s filters, pads and locking pivoting head – the only one of its kind on the market – make it an extremely versatile choice for drum overheads, hi-hats, close-miked drums, acoustic guitar, piano and any other typical small-diaphragm condenser applications.
Completing the ND Series is the ND68 dynamic, voiced to deliver a powerful kick drum sound with little or no additional equalization required. Offering extended low frequency response and extremely high sound pressure level handling, it is also highly effective when used on other bass instruments.
The new Electro-Voice ND Series will be available in spring 2016.
www.electrovoice.com
