The DPA 4015A Wide Cardioid Microphone is a versatile, high-performance solution for capturing natural, expansive sound with precision. Designed as a compelling alternative to the classic cardioid, the 4015A features a wide cardioid polar pattern that fills the sonic gap between omnidirectional and directional microphones. Ideal for instruments with complex radiation patterns, it offers a broader pickup area while maintaining excellent detail and clarity—perfect for capturing the full character of a live performance or recording session.
Thanks to its hemispheric design, the 4015A excels in a wide range of applications—from orchestral ensembles and vocal recordings to grand piano, marimba, and percussion. Its ability to balance ambient room reverberation with accurate localization makes it an exceptional choice for spot miking or solo instruments. The enhanced low-end response adds warmth and presence, making it equally suited for speech, dubbing, and vocal work.
Built for authenticity, the 4015A delivers completely linear off-axis characteristics, ensuring any ambient leakage retains its true tonal quality. With a built-in 20 dB pad switch at the XLR connector, it effortlessly handles extreme SPLs, providing reliable, distortion-free performance in even the most demanding acoustic environments.
DPA 4015A features
- Low profile wide pickup area
- Natural reproduction
- Directional ambience pickup
- Exceptional for vocal
DPA 4015A Polar Pattern

DPA 4015A Off-Axis Response

DPA 4015A Specifications
Directional pattern |
Wide cardioid
|
Principle of operation |
Pressure gradient |
Cartridge type |
Pre-polarized condenser |
Frequency response |
20 Hz - 20 kHz |
Effective frequency range, ±2 dB, at 60 cm (23.6 in) |
40 Hz - 20 kHz |
Sensitivity, nominal, ±2 dB at 1 kHz |
10 mV/Pa; -40 dB re. 1 V/Pa |
Equivalent noise level, A-weighted |
Typ. 18 dB(A) re. 20 µPa (max. 20 dB(A)) |
Equivalent noise level, ITU-R BS.468-4 |
Typ. 25 dB (correct with the attenuator in 0 dB or -20 dB setting) |
Distortion, THD < 1% |
136 dB SPL RMS, 139 dB SPL peak |
Dynamic range |
Typ. 121 dB |
Max. SPL, THD 10% |
159 dB SPL peak |
Switchable attenuator, filters etc. |
0 dB / -20 dB |
Rated output impedance |
200 Ω |
Minimum load impedance |
2 |
Cable drive capability |
100 m (328 ft) |
Output balance principle |
Impedance balancing with Active Drive |
Common mode rejection ratio (CMRR) |
> 60 dB |
Power supply (for full performance) |
P48 (Phantom Power) |
Current consumption |
2.8 mA |
Connector |
XLR-3M. Pin 1: shield, Pin 2: signal + phase, Pin 3: - phase |
Weight |
158 g (5.6 oz) |
Microphone diameter |
19 mm (0.75 in) |
Capsule diameter |
19 mm (0.75 in) |
Microphone length |
170 mm (6.7 in) |
Maximum output voltage, RMS |
> 5 V |
Polarity |
+V at pin 2 for positive sound pressure |
Temperature range |
-40°C to 45°C (-40°F to 113°F) |
Relative humidity (RH) |
Up to 90% |
Matching tolerance (frequency response and sensitivity) |
±1 dB |
Phase deviation for kit |
< 10° |
Colors |
Matte black |