The DPA 4018A Supercardioid Microphone is a highly directional, first-class microphone designed for pristine audio capture in professional recording and broadcast environments. Part of the modular DPA d:dicate™ series, this mic delivers exceptional performance with uniform, frequency-independent directionality—ensuring accurate sound reproduction across the spectrum.
Engineered with a precisely controlled supercardioid pattern, the 4018A minimizes rear lobe pickup and maintains consistent sound coloration around the microphone. Its high sensitivity and low self-noise make it ideal for distant placement without sacrificing clarity or detail, delivering excellent separation with no odd off-axis peaks or dips.
Perfect for a wide range of applications, the 4018A excels in spot miking for orchestra sections, vocal performances, dialogue capture, interviews, and ENG/film production. Its modular design supports a variety of configurations and accessories, offering unmatched flexibility.
DPA 4018A features
- Highly directional supercardioid
- Uniform, frequency independent directionality
- Low noise and high sensitivity for distant positioning
- Excellent for spot miking orchestra sections or singers
DPA 4018A Polar Pattern

DPA 4018A Off-Axis Response

DPA 4018A Specifications
| Directional pattern |
Supercardioid |
| Principle of operation |
Pressure gradient |
| Cartridge type |
Pre-polarized condenser |
| Frequency response |
20 Hz - 20 kHz |
| Effective frequency range, ±2 dB, at 30 cm (11.8 in) |
40 Hz - 18 kHz |
| Sensitivity, nominal, ±2 dB at 1 kHz |
12 mV/Pa; -38.4 dB re. 1 V/Pa |
| Equivalent noise level, A-weighted |
Typ. 16 dB(A) re. 20 µPa (max. 19 dB(A)) |
| Equivalent noise level, ITU-R BS.468-4 |
Typ. 23 dB (correct with the attenuator in 0 dB or -20 dB setting) |
| Distortion, THD < 1% |
134 dB SPL RMS, 137 dB SPL peak |
| Dynamic range |
Typ. 121 dB |
| Max. SPL, THD 10% |
156 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) |
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
|
8 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° |